USD-Magazine-Spring-2025

Dear Toreros, J ust over a year ago, I had the pleasure of joining USD, and from my first interactions with Torero alumni — both in San Diego and across the globe — I have experienced the special bonds that bring our community together. Toreros are passionate about their alma mater, care deeply about their relationships with each other and are steadfast in their commitment to making a difference through their personal and professional pursuits. The world has changed in countless ways since our founding 75 years ago. However, USD’s approach to education of the whole person continues on, stronger than ever. As we move into our next 75 years, we are excited about the ways we will support our inclusive, globally connected community, including both traditional and novel ways to grow and sustain meaningful, lasting relationships. In this issue of University of San Diego Magazine , we highlight how our university cultivates innovation, one of the four cornerstone commitments in USD’s new strategic plan, Lighting the Way to 2030 . The stories within feature powerful examples of how our students, faculty, alumni and advocates are creating positive, lasting change on campus, around the world, and yes, even in outer space. Their efforts are helping to address the challenges of our time, create a more just and hopeful world, and strengthen the bonds that make us all proud to be Toreros. I am excited to deepen my connections with each of you, and I am grateful for the many ways you support the Torero community. Sincerely,

[President] James T. Harris III, DEd [Vice President, University Advancement] Richard P. Virgin ’24 (PhD) [Associate VP for University Marketing and Communications, University Advancement] Russell J. Yost [Editor] Matthew Piechalak [Contributing Writers] Kelsey Grey ’15 (BA) Lissette Martinez ’03 (BA) Ben Peterson Mike Sauer Patrick Simon Marina Woods [University of San Diego Magazine] Published two times a year by the University of San Diego. U.S. postage paid at San Diego, CA 92110. Please note that content for University of San Diego Magazine has a long lead time. Toreros Making Waves will be reviewed and included based on deadlines for each issue. [Contact Us] University of San Diego 5998 Alcalá Park San Diego, CA 92110 (619) 260-4600 [Website] sandiego.edu [Be Blue, Go Green] University of San Diego Magazine is printed with vegetable-based inks on paper certified in accordance with FSC® standards, which support environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable management of the world’s forests. [Design Team] Tricia Caparas

Eric Hafner Senior Director of Alumni Relations

SAVE THE DATE! Join us at the USD Wine Classic on July 12, 2025, and help raise funds for student scholarships! For more information, visit usdwineclassic.com .

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Celebrating the 16th annual USD Wine Classic (left to right): Chase Tushaus ‘11, Eric Hafner, Helen (Kasperick) Finneran ‘81 and President James T. Harris III, DEd.

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