University of San Diego Magazine 75th Anniversary 2024

SAN DIEGO UNIVERSITY of MAGAZINE

SPRING

SAN DIEGO UNIVERSITY of MAGAZINE

SPRING

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS | 1949-2024

Spring/Summer 2024 | 4

BEAUTY, GOODNESS AND TRUTH

Ironclad History During construction, USD co-founder Mother Rosalie Clifton Hill, RSCJ, was carefully inspecting the installation of the front doors of Founders Hall when a worker said she was looking so intensely that she must have hoped the iron-barred door would last for 100 years. she replied. “No, my good man,” “For 300 years!”

5 | University of San Diego Magazine

Spring/Summer 2024 | 6

Dear Toreros, W elcome to our renewed and refreshed University of San Diego Magazine . We’re excited to present this issue to you and to share stories of interest to our Torero family. The magazine was reimagined with an eye toward the many ways our vibrant community is unique — and the sections, stories and imagery reflect how we lead and serve with faith, justice and love. There’s also another reason we decided to give the magazine a makeover. Throughout 2024, we’re commemorating USD’s 75th anniversary under the theme, “Lighting the Way Forward.” Seven and a half decades ago, Mother Rosalie Clifton Hill, RSCJ, and Bishop Charles Francis Buddy sparked a light through their bold vision to build a Catholic university in San Diego. Today, tens of thousands of Torero alumni, brilliant faculty members, bright students and dedicated staff members carry that light forward through their work to confront humanity’s urgent challenges. We want USD’s flagship magazine to be one of the ways we light the way forward through sharing these important stories with you. We hope you will join us to celebrate USD’s past, present and future by attending an event — on campus, virtually or somewhere around the world. You can download some virtual swag and follow the latest news and events on the USD 75th anniversary website or by engaging with us on social media. University of San Diego Magazine is written, designed and produced for you — our incredible Torero community. To deliver the stories and content you seek from USD, we want to hear from you. Scan our QR code to complete a brief reader survey and share your thoughts, preferences and story ideas. We look forward to evolving this magazine and the other ways we connect with you. I'm also excited to share that I am a new member of the Torero alumni community! In May, I walked across the stage and officially earned my PhD from USD's School of Leadership and Education Sciences. Thank you for all you do to make this university stellar. Please join me in wishing USD a happy 75th anniversary — and, together, let's continue Lighting the Way Forward. In Torero Spirit,

Richard P. Virgin ’24 (PhD) Vice President of University Advancement

Complete a reader survey and share your thoughts with us .

Since its founding in 1949, the University of San Diego has prepared generations of Toreros to lead inspired and meaningful lives. Commemorate USD’s diamond anniversary throughout the year with special events and stories that celebrate USD’s past, present and future. Mark your calendar for these upcoming signature events:

Torero Bash at Petco Park

16th Annual USD Wine Classic

San Diego Padres vs. Colorado Rockies Saturday, Aug. 3, 4 p.m. Petco Park

Saturday, July 13, 3 p.m. Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, Garden of the Sea

Homecoming and Family Weekend

Founders Gala - Shine Bright on the Diamond

Oct. 18-20 USD Campus

Saturday, Nov. 16, 5 p.m. Petco Park

For news, videos and a full calendar of events, visit sandiego.edu/about/75-years

Contents

[10] Aesthetic Aspirations The University of San Diego is recognized as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country. Mary Whelan ’86 (BA) shares the vision of USD co-founder Mother Rosalie Clifton Hill, RSCJ, to utilize 16th century Spanish Renaissance architecture as the unifying design element throughout campus.

[22] The Stories Within Every day, fascinating stories from across campus are revealed through the podcast, At the Edge of it All. [49] A Simple Yet Grand Vision Alice B. Hayes, PhD, USD’s second president

[7] Forging Community USD leaders working to promote greater diversity, equity and inclusion on campus through the creation of a new employee resource group.

[18] From Grassroots to the Vatican Wendel Callahan, PhD, was invited to the Vatican for a conference to discuss mental health and the role the Church can play in helping those who are struggling.

7

(1995-2003), leaves behind a legacy of

academic excellence and a commitment to service.

20

49

[20] Decade of Discovery The USD Madrid Center grew from an initiative in the strategic plan to expand the university’s global footprint.

[9] Celebrating Impact The third annual Diversity and Inclusion Impact Awards recognize the university leaders who make USD a welcoming and supportive place.

4 | University of San Diego Magazine

40

ON THE COVER

14

[14] Lighting the Way Forward The Lighting the Way Forward Conference was held to explore what it means to be a Catholic university at a time in history riddled with urgent global challenges.

Bright morning sunlight diffuses through a decorative metal screen, casting a patterned shadow on an adjacent wall. These screens were installed during the renovation of Camino and Founders halls in 2020-21, and the design was intended architecture that allowed for filtering of light and shade. This cover image serves as a powerful example of light being a guiding force as USD celebrates its 75th anniversary. Photo by Matthew Piechalak to mimic the Moorish influence in Spanish

[40] Twice as Nice USD Men’s Soccer enters this upcoming season looking for a three-peat — the program has won back-to-back West Coast Conference championships. A commitment to each other is the key to their success.

24

[38] Aiming for Excellence Barcelona native Claudia De Las Heras was recruited to USD and has been a crucial part of the USD Women’s Tennis team’s recent success, putting the program on the national map. 38

[24] Those at Our Core USD’s core values are an embodiment of the university’s mission and vision statements. For Toreros, these six values are our true north and serve to inform all decisions and paths. Members of the community live these core values daily in their work across campus.

75th Anniversary 2024 | 5

AROUND ALCALÁ PARK

Caring for Our Common Home USD Names Cardinal Robert W. McElroy a Laudato Si’ Fellow

T he University of San Diego presented Cardinal Robert Walter McElroy with a Laudato Si’ Fellows Award following his keynote address at the university’s Lighting the Way Forward Conference on Jan. 11. “Cardinal McElroy, in recognition of your exemplary leadership in educating the Church and broader society regarding the imperative Caring for Our Common Home, it is a supreme honor for the University of San Diego to name you as a Laudato Si’ Fellow,” said USD Vice President of Mission Integration Michael Lovette-Colyer, PhD. USD President James T. Harris III, DEd, presented McElroy with a framed plaque on stage to a round of applause from the audience

Envisioning 2024 pathways that embodies Pope Francis’ urgent call of Laudato Si’ . In the 2015 papal encyclical, the pope called for urgent action to support the poor and the vulnerable, who are disproportionately impacted by global environmental problems such as climate change, pollution, access to clean water and loss of biodiversity. Care for Our Common Home remains one of USD’s six core values. Environmental and Ocean Sciences Associate Professor Michel Boudrias, PhD, introduced the award by providing the audience with a brief history of the university’s efforts during the past several years to live up to the pope’s call. “My first conversation with Jim [Harris] was in August 2015. Laudato Si’ had just come out, and I said, ‘We can be a university of Laudato Si’ . We can be a university dedicated to environmental justice,’” Boudrias recalled for the audience. In September 2021, USD became one of the first universities in the world to align its investment policy with Laudato Si’ . Included in the university’s investment policy are the three key tenets of the encyclical. “Climate change is real and it’s happening now, it’s disproportionately affecting the disadvantaged and the poor, and we must work together in an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary way to come up with solutions,” said Boudrias. In April 2022, USD and the Frances G. Harpst Center for Catholic Thought and Culture honored 21 faculty members, staff and community members as the first Laudato Si’ fellows in recognition of their commitment and dedication to environmental issues and initiatives. “Your talk about what Catholic universities can do is really core,” Boudrias told McElroy. “In recognition of the efforts of Cardinal McElroy and others in Laudato Si’ , we present him this special award.” •

“Once we start

to think about the

kind of world we

are leaving to

future generations,

we look at things

differently; we realize

that the world is a gift

which we have freely

of conference attendees. McElroy, the bishop of San Diego, was appointed as a fellow for his work

received and must

share with others.”

— Cardinal Robert W. McElroy

promoting Care for Our Common Home,

one of the university’s

6 | University of San Diego Magazine

A dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held last August to officially open the Purcell Family Championship Golf Practice Facility. Located in the northeast quadrant of campus, the state-of-the-art facility was designed by San Diego native and golfing icon Phil Mickelson and includes a one-acre natural turf short-game area, complete with an 8,000-square-foot putting green, three practice sand bunkers and a 40,000-square foot fairway and rough area, designed to perfect every possible golf shot. “This world-class facility was designed to build teamwork and encourage a healthy sense of competitive spirit,” said USD President James T. Harris III, DEd. The $2 million gift courtesy of the Purcell family was originally announced in May 2021. USD alumnus Paul M. Purcell ’97 (BA) joined the USD Board of Trustees in 2019 and currently serves on the board’s athletics committee and the university advancement committee. Purcell helped in the planning and shepherding of the gift. “This is a great day for our family,” said Purcell, dressed in a Torero blue USD golf polo. “I stand before you humbled and full of gratitude. This place was a big part of my life.” • Teeing Up a New Era in Golf

PHOTO: HATTIE MORGAN

Forging Community organizations they serve. Such groups have become an important mechanism for providing representation and support to employees with specific interests and concerns at workplaces throughout the country. “Having the BEA as an official ERG means that the alliance now has

T he Black Employee Alliance (BEA) was established in 2019 to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for Black employees at the University of San Diego. Now, the alliance is an official Employee Resource Group (ERG) on campus. “BEA was created with support from the USD community and USD leadership, who have been working hard to promote greater diversity and inclusion on campus,” said Pauline Berryman Powell, assistant dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and a founding member of the alliance. “For many Black employees, finding a sense of community on the USD campus has been a challenge, which creates major problems when it comes to inclusion and retention. The BEA was established to provide avenues for Black employees to be seen and heard — as well as offer a space for relief and joy.” ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with the

dedicated funds to support initiatives specifically designed to support Black employees at USD,” explained Powell. “It allows us the funding to promote community engagement, education and awareness, and recognition of the efforts of Black employees,” she said. Each academic year the alliance has grown both its membership — now more than 90 employees — and important partner ships around campus with departments like the Center for Inclusion and Diversity, the Black Student Resource Commons and Mission Integration, as well as student-led groups like the Black Student Union and the National Society for Black Engineers. •

PHOTO: TOM CHRISTENSEN

75th Anniversary 2024 | 7

AROUND ALCALÁ PARK

1949 SETTING THE STAGE FOR A GREAT UNIVERSITY The State of California granted official charters to the San Diego College for Men, the College for Women and the School of Law. Classes for the College for Women would begin in 1952.

KIMYA MASSEY was named associate vice president and executive director of athletics.

Approximately 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor spaces in USD’s new Wellness Center and Basketball Practice Center, where the campus community can find connections between physical activity, diet and nutrition, mental health, engagement and belonging. The center will feature indoor and outdoor basketball courts, a sand volleyball court, meditation spaces, counseling services, fitness areas, a pet therapy space, a teaching kitchen, juice bar and more. The facility is expected to open later this year. Be Well

DARREN KEW, PHD was named dean of the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies.

Sciences Unite

A TORERO IN SPACE

Astronaut Matthew Dominick ’05 (BS/BA) made history as the first USD alumnus to journey to the International Space Station. He serves as NASA’s commander of the SpaceX Crew-8 mission.

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF SCIENCE More than 20 years ago, an idea began taking shape at the University of San Diego: Bringing the campus’s four science programs together into a brand-new, thoughtfully planned building with up-to-date instrumentation and equipment, a focus on interdisciplinary teaching and collaboration and the potential for program growth. In December, the College of Arts and Sciences celebrated the 20th anniversary of the idea, which ultimately turned into the Donald P. Shiley Center for Science and Technology.

8 | University of San Diego Magazine

A Labor of Love O ne of the key mantras of USD’s 75th anniversary is “to lead with love.” On a brilliantly blue April morning, more than 130 members of the Torero community put those inspiring words into action, donning their walking shoes and Torero blue “Team USD” T-shirts and traversing the 5K (3.1-mile) course through downtown San Diego in an effort to raise funds for, and awareness of, cancer research at the 2024 Padres Pedal the Cause event. “We’re so thrilled to partner with the Padres in the fight against cancer,” explained USD 75th Anniversary Co-Chair and Associate Vice President of University Events and Partnerships Coreen Petti. “This event aligns with many of the core values of USD’s mission and vision; values we’re proud to celebrate during USD’s 75th anniversary in 2024. Cancer has, in some way, touched everyone’s lives, and to be here and see the support of not only the USD community, but all of San Diego, is really inspiring.” Team USD contributed more than $15,000 in funds. All told, the 2024 event has raised more than $2.4 million to date, with every dollar raised going toward cancer research institutions based in the San Diego region. •

Celebrating Impact USD Honors Third Cohort of Diversity and Inclusion Impact Award Recipients

T he University of San Diego held its third annual Diversity and Inclusion Impact Awards in February. The luncheon, co-sponsored by USD’s Center for Inclusion and Diversity, recognized more than a dozen faculty and staff members from across the university for their contributions to making USD a more diverse and inclusive community. “We encourage all the members of our community to be inspired by the awardees and to commit to doing more individually and collectively to ensure that USD lives up to her mission, vision and values to be an inclusive community of leaders and lifelong learners who are prepared to change the world through their teaching, scholarship, service and activism,” said Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Regina Dixon-Reeves, PhD. The Impact Award was created in 2021 to honor and recognize the experiences of Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) on campus. The award was established in response to an open letter

written in 2020 by Black faculty members. It highlights the often under-recognized work by those who mentor members of the community and contribute to cultural changes on campus and beyond. All awardees have provided exemplary service to USD, worked tirelessly to support students and are committed to advancing excellence. • Awardees included: V. Dozier (Copley Library); Jannise T. Baclig ‘08 (MSN), ‘14 (PhD) and Bianca Vazquez-Pantoja (Hahn School of Nursing); Jason Campbell, PhD, and Jacqueline Greulich ‘85 (BBA) (Knauss School of Business); Mary Jo Wiggins, JD, and Emily Keehn, JD (School of Law); Tom Lupfer and Lorena Silvas (in memoriam) (Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering); TJ Tallie, PhD, and Amanda Ruiz, PhD (College of Arts and Sciences); Kristopher G. Hall, PhD, and Perla Myers, PhD, (School of Leadership and Education Sciences) and Lissette Martinez ‘03 (BA) (University Marketing and Communications).

PHOTO: KELSEY GREY

75th Anniversary 2024 | 9

Aspirations Aesthetic

Preserving USD’s Unique Architectural Legacy

T he University of San Diego is annually recognized as one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country — it’s testament to a poignant decision made 75 years ago by co-founder Mother Rosalie Clifton Hill, RSCJ, to utilize 16th century Spanish Renaissance architecture as the unifying design element throughout campus. By Ryan T. Blystone

I n unison with Hill’s vision, USD’s Office of University Design champions this unique style, upholds history and tradition and has a flexible focus for both the present and future. USD alumna Mary Whelan ’86 (BA) has been the office’s executive director since 2000. She began as a student worker for inaugural design director Therese (Terry) Whitcomb ’53 (BA), and assisted Ruth Stanton, who served in the role until her retirement. Whelan’s office is “responsible for the aesthetic integrity of the university.” She is in all discussions for needs of existing and new buildings, picks furniture and furnishings and approves public displays. She is also co-chair of USD’s Space Committee and interim director of University Galleries. To coincide with its 75th anniversary in 2024, Whelan sat down to discuss USD’s distinct aesthetic, including its relevance to the past, current and future of the institution.

[Q] Can you provide insight into Mother Hill’s decision to construct USD wholly in a 16th century Spanish Renaissance style? A: Mother Hill was quoted often about how the architectural style was chosen; it was really to give students a sense of history. Although it was not specifically about our history, it is now. It was also a sense of permanence. We are such a young university, even at 75 years, but we feel like an older university because of a timeless architectural style. Choosing the 16th century Spanish Renaissance over the Italian Renaissance was because the Spanish Renaissance had Moorish and Arabic influences you didn’t necessarily find in Italy. But renaissance, a rebirth, is the age of discovery happening in Spain and the Catholic identity was emerging at that time, post-1492. There was an exuberance of this style that set the standard as a Catholic country.

10 | University of San Diego Magazine

75th Anniversary 2024 | 11

[Q] How did your office come to be the A: Terry Whitcomb was given the role as the first director of University Design in the mid-1980s. After the Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science building was built, there wasn’t a lot of money, despite fundraising and donor names on the building. When Terry visited the space, she was aghast. The building had wicker furniture and things that were not Spanish. She wrote a long, handwritten memo to President Hughes to tell him this was against everything Mother Hill envisioned. We needed to maintain the design consistency of the campus. Hughes then appointed her director of design. The Manchester Executive Conference Center and Olin Hall were her first foray in the new role. She was also teaching art history. I was a student of hers. I remember being taken with the role she had. I recall, very distinctly, her coming in to give a lecture. She was all dressed up, carrying a basket with a bell that jingled. She threw down the basket, pulled out a tile and asked us, “Does this look blue to you?” She was holding up a teal-colored tile. ‘This is not blue.’ She had come from a meeting about Olin Hall. She had to give a lecture, but she was going on about this tile piece. I thought, “Wow, what a fascinating thing she does.” stewards of maintaining this aesthetic?

Mother Hill looking to the University of Alcalá, in Spain, as an influence is part of the Spanish Renaissance architectural style decision, but also it is the burial place for Saint Didacus, San Diego, for whom our city is named. It is a style used in some buildings in Balboa Park. [Q] What USD building best exemplifies this style? A: The best example on campus is The Immaculata's facade. It’s this shallow relief of plateresque style highlighting the entrance. It calls you to the entrance of the building. As you get around the sides and the back, it simplifies. You don’t see articulation, but you do see the windows and pediments, some of them repeating themselves, the deeper windows to create shadow, the sense of weight and the human scale of these buildings. The Immaculata is an exception in that you want the exuberance of reaching for the sky; a being closer-to-God feel.

Above, a sketch

of decorative panel

by Edgar V. Ullrich

(1893 -1958),

produced for

the university

administration

center/diocesan

chancery.

“ It’s what you want to attract the students, to have them feel a sense of home, a sense of learning, a sense of timelessness. ” [Q] How are these elements reflected in the original buildings?

A: The way I look at Founders and Camino [Halls] — the original College for Women buildings — is that you go in the two-story buildings that are a more personal scale. It’s what you want to attract the students, to have them feel a sense of home, a sense of learning, a sense of timelessness. Part of the Spanish style is these open courtyards, the arcades and all of the different elements. There are so many things that resonate with the Spanish Renaissance that go back to the consistency of the harmonious aesthetic our campus has.

To the right,

Mother Rosalie

Clifton Hill, RSCJ

12 | University of San Diego Magazine

“ It’s about respecting where we’ve come from and understanding our mission and our vision. ”

[Q] What advice did Whitcomb pass along that still resonates with you? A: Details matter. Looking at design, good design doesn’t have to break the bank. You can spend just as much money doing something poorly as something that is good design. Invest in materials that last. What is front and center is that what our students and faculty experience should be timeless. The other takeaway from Mother Hill — we don’t follow current trends. We really should be looking at timeless design. Trends age quickly. You look at other institutions and there are a lot of trends that come and go. [Q] Describe USD’s design processes to maintain the same style across campus? A: The 16th century Spanish Renaissance is a melding of styles — Gothic, classical and Moorish — and unique. Our buildings aren’t cookie cutter. If you go to Spain, they’re not cookie cutter, either. Each has unique qualities. Each building is unique because it speaks to whom it serves. The design consistency when working with architects we bring on board is one of the fun things for me. When we’re interviewing architects, we let them know these buildings have to be 16th century Spanish Renaissance on the exterior. We can play a little with the interior. If you look at our campus, there’s formal and informal and that really depends on the building’s use. Formal is the academic buildings, but Hahn University Center has a red tile roof, arcade in front and it is more of a stripped-down look than what Spanish Renaissance is. It was very purposeful because it is supposed to be the students’ living room. The Degheri Alumni Center is a hybrid. We put a tile roof on that, but you don’t see it on the west side of campus so much because that’s where our academic buildings are. The Donald P. Shiley Center for Science and Technology was one I worked on to infuse both a Moorish and Arabic sense of design. [Q] Did Mother Hill ever consider another kind of architectural style? A: I’ve never read anything that Mother Hill would have considered another architectural style. If you think about the timeframe, post-World War II, midcentury modern was really the style. New building materials were coming out. Mother Hill convinced Bishop Buddy that the Spanish Renaissance was a timeless architectural style and she felt it gave the university a presence and a look that it was older than it really was.

[Q] How does USD’s architectural style contribute to its Catholic identity? A: It really resonates with Mother Hill’s quote, “Beauty will attract them, goodness will lead them, but the truth will hold them.” I fall back on that. I have those words stenciled on the wall in my office because I think it is part of my job to maintain that, which leads into our mission, vision and values. The architectural style is part of who we are. [Q] Describe what it’s like to preserve a cam pus established 75 years ago. A: This role has great responsibility. It is a chance to work for the greater good of the university. It’s about respecting where we’ve come from and understanding our mission and our vision. There are decisions we make today that will influence what comes tomorrow and I really do take that to heart. It is one of the most unique aspects of this position. So much of what we do is cross divisional. We touch on every aspect, one way or another, whether it is a chair, artwork for the library, something outdoors or a new building. [Q] Have you been to Spain and brought back ideas for the campus? A: I was very fortunate to have taken two separate trips to Spain. Each time, I’ve taken away something new that helps enrich me as I look at our campus. When you go to our Bishop Buddy Sala in SOLES, as you enter, that’s the dissertation room at Alcalá. I saw it and said, “this is what we’re going to do in this space.” I wouldn’t have known that without the opportunity to go to Spain and see it firsthand. You can look at travel books and see pictures, but to go through the buildings, look and go, “Oh my, look how they did this handrail, look at the tile on the floor,” those types of things. That’s really informative and helps me to inform the campus on our sense of aesthetic. [Q] Do you have a favorite architectural place on campus? A: My favorite is Founders Hall, not just because it is an original building, but the French Parlor and Founders Chapel, to me, are signature spaces.

75th Anniversary 2024 | 13

Lighting Our Way Forward USD Convenes Thought Leaders for Important Dialogue on the Future of Catholic Higher Education

W arm afternoon sunlight magnified the row of stained-glass windows high above the congregation gathered inside Founders Chapel for the opening Mass of the Lighting the Way Forward Conference. The assembly included members of the USD community and guests from around the country — and the world — all of whom had convened to discuss the future of Catholic higher education.

19 | University of San Diego Magazine 14

Story and photos by Matthew Piechalak

Spring/Summer 2024 | 20 75th Anniversary 2024 | 15

Conference Reflections from Michael Lovette-Colyer, PhD “

There remains tremendous value in Catholic higher education in an era full of division and conflict. “The Catholic Intellectual Tradition and Catholic higher education have incredible wisdom to offer. If we are going to address humanity’s urgent challenges, we should draw upon the wisdom we have in our tradition.” USD has an obligation and opportunity to continue its efforts related to sustainability. “Cardinal McElroy’s talk highlighted that Laudato Si’ really ought to be seen as a guide for the mission and identity of the Catholic university. How are we embodying our commitment to being good stewards of the Earth’s resources? How are we educating people about the importance of that and how they can do it in their own lives? We need to continue what we’ve done in this regard and amplify these efforts.”

T he Eucharistic Liturgy of the novel the official beginning of the university’s 75th anniversary — appropriately themed Lighting the Way Forward. “It is timely for us to gather at this moment to rethink, reimagine and rearticulate our deepest purposes and our highest aspirations,” USD President James T. Harris III, DEd, said during his welcome speech. “I sincerely hope this conference will provide an opportunity to draw wisdom from the incredibly rich history of Catholic higher education and chart a course forward to navigate a more inclusive, sustainable and hopeful future.” Roughly 250 individuals representing more than 40 Catholic colleges and universities and numerous K-12 districts participated in the conference, held to explore what it means to be a Catholic university at a conference carried a distinguished air as both a warm welcome to guests and

time in history riddled with urgent global challenges including climate change, structural racism, lack of trust in institutions, polarizing political discourse, breakdown of communities and more. Cardinal Robert W. McElroy provided the keynote plenary session on Care for Our Common Home. After his talk, McElroy, the bishop of San Diego, was named a Laudato Si’ fellow for his efforts promoting Care for Our Common Home (see page 6). Other plenary topics at the conference included Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging; Pope Francis’ Pontificate and Catholic Colleges and Universities; the Liberal Arts; and the Emerging Needs, Challenges and Opportunities of Generation Z. The genesis of the conference emerged during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in Fall 2020. USD Vice President of Mission

16 | University of San Diego Magazine

Integration Michael Lovette-Colyer, PhD, began working with others in Mission Integration to determine what a postpandemic world would look like in Catholic higher education. Pope Francis published an opinion piece in The New York Times on Nov. 26, 2020, titled “A Crisis Reveals What Is in Our Hearts.” In the article — which was subsequently turned into the bestselling book Let Us Dream — the pope makes the argument that society will emerge from any crisis either better or worse, but never the same. “What will make the difference, he says, is if we take the time to honestly reflect on what happened and then to dream together of a better future,” explained Lovette-Colyer. “We were really struck by that.” The Office for Mission began to have conversations, both internally and with colleagues around the country, and there was a strong desire to put together this unique gathering. Ultimately, the conference exceeded expectations, Lovette-Colyer said, both in terms of the attendance and the quality of presentations. “The energy that came from gathering people from different institutions was really exciting. We can sometimes get caught up in our own narrow focus, but to realize that we are all a part of something much larger elicits a great deal of hope and joy.” The Lighting the Way Forward Conference was a reaffirmation of USD’s unique identity and an important milestone in the university’s diamond jubilee. “In the moment, I profoundly appreciated how appropriate it was that we were beginning the conference in Founders Chapel inside Founders Hall, one of the very first buildings constructed at USD,” said Lovette-Colyer. “It was the perfect way to mark this transition from our first 75 years to the next 75. The dream of Bishop Buddy and Mother Hill has come true in so many ways and required an incredible amount of faith and grace. For us to be in the chapel to remember the faith of our founders and all those who got us here was incredibly touching as we think about what is ahead of us.” •

The value of a liberal arts education remains high. “Part of our role is not to just fill students up with facts, but to help them discover a love of learning. We need to become more articulate in how we express the value of this type of education to broader audiences who might not be as familiar with it — or who may even be skeptical of its value.” Catholic institutions need to meet the unique needs of Generation Z, the first generation to have grown up with access to the Internet universities are uniquely set up to offer accompaniment and a blend of challenge and support that can respond to issues they are facing in a way that meets them where they are and invites them to walk further into their true selves toward a life that will be, to use the language of our core values, meaningful and inspired, allowing them to truly flourish.” and digital technology. “Catholic colleges and

To view more photos from the conference, scan this QR Code with a mobile device.

75th Anniversary 2024 | 17

FAITH IN ACTION

By Steven Covella W GRASSROOTS From to the Vatican endell Callahan, PhD, might have thought the image Photo shopped, if he hadn’t flown

halfway around the world himself. The photograph showed his colleague handing Pope Francis a book with Callahan’s name on it. The moment was surreal for Callahan — not just because of what it meant to him personally but also what it could signal for the future of the Church. Callahan was among those invited to the Vatican in January for a conference to discuss mental health and the role the Church can play in helping those who are struggling. That’s the subject of the book that was gifted to the pope – Catholic Mental Health Ministry: Guidelines for Implementation , 2nd edition, co-edited by Callahan and Priscilla Martinez ’23 (MA), a former graduate assistant and local school-based mental health counselor. The book had a number of other USD contributors, including Callahan’s former students Liberty Hebron ’07 (BA), ’14 (MA) and Alissa Willmerdinger ’19 (MA), and USD alumnus Bishop John Dolan ’85 (BA). Catholic Mental Health Ministry is a collection of research and

said. “Mental health ministry is meant to focus on reducing stigma around mental health and getting people to feel included in the parish or in their religious community.” Callahan, a clinical psychologist and practicing Catholic, studied and implemented mental health ministry, but he wanted to amplify the message. In 2021, he partnered with USD’s Professional and Continuing Education division to offer online courses to train people everywhere. While he says the movement is inherently grassroots, Callahan felt validated by his recent trip, where the Vatican hosted experts from around the world to discuss mental health ministry. Some of the attendees had even taken the online course. “I think there was an aspect of the meeting itself that it was the first time we brought people together on this topic. And the idea that the Vatican sponsored this, I think that’s significant and that really gave me pause,” Callahan said. “Because it wasn’t just us here at USD. There is now support for mental health ministry from the highest levels of the Church.” Callahan says the work being done on mental health ministry plays an important role at USD, a Catholic institution inspired by the Ladauto Si’ encyclical On Care for Our Common Home. While it’s often tied to addressing environmental issues, Callahan says mental health ministry plays a substantial role in strengthening and empowering the communities we call home. “It’s human development, not just on an intrapersonal level, it’s community and societal development. It’s care for our common home. It’s all of that,” Callahan said. “I think there’s some momentum here. And so I believe we’re going to see more of this.” •

resources that creates new guidelines for clergy members and parishioners to handle mental health discussions and programming. Training can range from knowing how to approach and talk to someone suffering from something as severe as schizophrenia to creating a space where people can feel safe opening up. Then, when necessary, connecting an individual with the resources or professional treatment they may need. Callahan is the executive director of USD’s Catholic Institute for Mental Health Ministry, housed in the School of Leadership and Education Sciences. As society becomes more aware and accepting of mental health issues, Callahan believes parishes need to become better versed in how to discuss those issues and help people who are struggling. “Something that I’ve really come to learn is that there’s a lot of folks that are sitting in parishes and in pews struggling with something … and they’re hesitant to come forward for a number of reasons,” Callahan

23 | University of San Diego Magazine 18

Spring 2024 | 24 75th Anniversary 2024 | 19

GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES

D ECADE of Discovery

Madrid Center Provides Immersive and Unforgettable Experiences Abroad

By Kelsey Grey ’15 (BA) M

egan Soong’s return to the United States after a semester at USD’s Madrid Center is a

testament to the profound impact the immersive experience provides. On her flight from Madrid, Spain, to Charlotte, North Carolina, she found herself momentarily lost in translation when a flight attendant with a thick Southern accent spoke to her. “I just stared at her,” Soong confessed, blushing. “I didn’t understand a single word she said. Not because of her accent, but because I hadn’t heard English in so long.” Soong is one of the thousands of students who have embraced the experiences offered at the Madrid Center. Nestled in the heart of the city near the famed Retiro Park, the Madrid Center has become an integral part of USD’s international study abroad program during the past decade. What began as a modest, permanent study abroad location has blossomed into USD’s most popular option for undergraduate and graduate students across all the schools within USD. “The USD Madrid Center was originally envisioned from an initiative coming from the university’s strategic

plan of growing our international activities and expanding our global footprint,” said Denise Dimon, PhD, who served as USD’s associate provost in 2014 and spearheaded the center. “Madrid was popular with our undergraduate students, but the vision (and justification) of having a physical space in Madrid was that other units on campus would be able to utilize the space as well.” Ten years after its opening, the center offers undergraduate and graduate courses, as well as opportunities for faculty research, community engagement, alumni events and more. The center has also established a partnership with Madrid’s Universidad Pontificia Comillas, where students have the unique opportunity to enroll in courses. For Soong, the charm of Spanish culture left a lasting impression on her.

University of San Diego Madrid Center

Est. 2014

“What I love about the culture of Spain is everything is much slower paced,” said Soong, a junior double-majoring in international business and supply chain management. “I would walk around the city and it was such a great way to get to know it better. I could people watch and see how the locals interacted with each other, walk past the mercados, smell the fresh food … that’s probably what I miss the most.” Soong’s semester at the center also inspired her to look into global operations, a career path she hadn’t previously considered. “I took a break from my supply chain management classes in Madrid, which gave me a lot of time to think about what I enjoy.” “From a growth perspective, that’s why it’s important to have the Madrid Center,” said James Bolender, PhD, associate provost for International Affairs. “The students might not see

“It’s incredibly important for the students to make cross-cultural connections. Study abroad is an immersive experience, and the students should expect to be a little uncomfortable at times — that’s okay. It’s about pushing past your comfort zone and gaining those global skills.” Bolender emphasizes the long-lasting impact the Madrid Center has on USD students. He shares that about 10 percent of the students who have experiences through the center return to Madrid for further education, work, or to make it their permanent home. Understanding this strong connection, USD administrators and staff began to ask: How does the university continue to support students, staff and alumni through the Madrid Center? The answer: Acquire a new building. Currently, USD leases a 10,000-square foot office.

for 10 years now,” said Kira Espiritu, PhD, assistant provost for international affairs and director of international studies abroad. “The new center will not only accommodate our expanding needs, but it demonstrates USD’s long-term commitment to a global presence in Madrid.” For Soong, the prospect of future USD students embarking on similarly expansive journeys of self-exploration through the new center fills her with immense pride and optimism to know the university will continue shaping students into global citizens. “Students need to experience the Madrid Center. You come back a changed person, maybe in small ways, or maybe in big ways, but it changes your perspectives. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and I hope the university can continue to promote and support study abroad, so students have the resources to receive a global education.” •

Once the lease expires in August, the Madrid Center will transition into a two-story, 12,000-square-foot office building in Argüelles near Parque del Oeste that the university purchased. In a fortuitous twist, the acquisition was facilitated by alumnus Haryán Rodríguez, CEO of Spanish real estate company iKasa, who completed his masters in real estate at USD. “We’ve had a presence in Madrid

it right away when they initially come home, but it can really change a student’s perspective.” Bolender teaches courses that span the fields of chemistry and biochemistry, and has led research trips to the Baja Peninsula and Uganda. With his own eyes, he has watched as students have grown and matured, both personally and academically.

75th Anniversary 2024 | 21

AT THE EDGE OF IT ALL

THE STORIES Within

TOP FIVE MOST DOWNLOADED EPISODES: Tips From a Finance Professor to Be Financially Savvy and Avoid Common Financial Mistakes Dan Roccato, clinical professor of finance Profesor de Música Lleva la Música de Mariachi por Todo el Mundo Serafin Paredes, director of USD’s mariachi ensemble Piecing Together the Story of Our Early Ancestors With an Archaeologist Jennifer Parkinson, PhD, associate professor of anthropology

as they work together to study the impact of climate change on our oceans. USD President James T. Harris III, DEd, told a story about a small piece of advice from his grandmother that informs his approach as a leader. “The summer between high school and college, the one job I could get was cleaning restrooms and cafeterias. I remember cleaning and people would walk by me and not say hello. I was a little disgruntled by that,” Harris said, adding that he later talked about it with his grandmother. “Her advice to me was to never forget what it feels like to be invisible. I think that element of making sure that you recognize people — that they’re seen, that they’re heard — I think that is a piece that has stuck with me.” The mission of At the Edge of It All is to open our eyes not only to the great work being done on our campus but also the incredible people we pass by every day — each one of them has a story. All you have to do is listen. •

a weekly podcast created to shine a light on all the great things happening at USD and the people who are making them happen. With a growing Hispanic community on campus, the stories are offered in both English and Spanish when the guest is bilingual. Each week, a member of USD’s faculty or administration sits down to share their story. The dialogue offers a unique perspective into who they are, what drives them and what work or research they are passionate about that helps us all to better understand the world. The topics discussed on the podcast are diverse and wide-ranging, from mental health to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) to theatre, just to name a few. Darby Vickers, PhD, a professor of philosophy, joined the podcast to discuss the emerging field of artificial intelligence and some of the ethical questions the technology poses for humanity. Cawa Tran, PhD, shared the inspiring story of how her love of biology coincided with a journey of self-dis covery and realization, and how she channels that to connect with her students

At the Edge of It All Podcast Tells Unique

Stories From the USD Community

USD President on Leading a University in 2024 James T. Harris III, DEd, president of USD

By Steven Covella E

verybody has a story to tell. You just have to be willing to listen.

How a Professor’s Passion for STEM is Inspiring Others and Creating a More Inclusive Industry Odesma Dalrymple, PhD, associate professor of industrial and systems engineering

Each day, fascinating people and ideas pass through the University of San Diego. The campus lies at the heart of a binational region, welcomes students and thought leaders from around the globe and gives people the tools they need to explore and innovate. At the Edge of It All is

Download episodes of At the Edge of It All wherever you get your podcasts or visit sandiego.edu/communications/media-relations

22 | University of San Diego Magazine

Recommended Episodes From Podcast Staff

KIMBERLY WHITE-SMITH, EDD DEAN, SCHOOL OF LEADERSHIP AND EDUCATION SCIENCES NEURODIVERGENCE AND MEETING THE NEEDS OF ALL STUDENTS

JUSTIN BROOKS, JD PROFESSOR OF PRACTICE; ACADEMIC DIRECTOR, LLM IN SPANISH A LAWYER’S FIGHT FOR THOSE WHO ARE WRONGFULLY CONVICTED Justin Brooks joined the podcast to talk about his storied career fighting for people who have been wrongfully convicted, including his first case to exonerate an innocent woman. He discussed what got him into law, how he developed a passion that spawned the founding of the California Innocence Project and why he is now focusing on improving the justice system in Latin America. “I enjoyed interviewing law professor Justin Brooks for the podcast and diving into his passion for fighting for people who have been wrongfully convicted.” — Elena Gomez Co-Host, Associate Director of Media Relations

TARA CERANIC SALINAS, PHD PROFESSOR OF BUSINESS ETHICS; DEPARTMENT CHAIR OF MANAGEMENT HOW WOMEN “TIGHTROPE” IN THE WORKPLACE + WAYS TO BREAK THIS CYCLE

ZHI-YONG YIN, PHD PROFESSOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND OCEAN SCIENCES EXPLORING WEATHER PATTERNS OF THE PAST AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Zhi-Yong Yin talked about his work researching climates of the past, present and future. He explains how he used ancient trees to learn about rainy seasons from hundreds of years ago, the state of drought in California today and what we can do to help address climate change . “Dr. Zhi-Yong Yin gave me a new perspective on our weather and climate, things that can often seem ever-changing or intangible.” — Steven Covella Producer, Assistant Director of Media Relations

Kimberly White-Smith spoke about how her past experiences pushed her to pursue change from within the world of education. She talks about how the classroom is changing to meet the needs of students who are fully capable, but may be facing unseen challenges or may not fit into traditional ways of teaching.

Tara Ceranic Salinas joined the podcast to discuss how she developed the term

“tightroping,” which requires balancing on a

tightrope to fit in at the workplace and how her research on this topic is shaping her latest book .

“The importance of understanding and supporting neurodivergent students in the classroom was fascinating.” — Lissette Martinez, Co-Host, Senior Director of Media Relations

“I found the focus on ‘tightroping’ interesting. A term to describe how people constantly regulate their behavior to fit in at work and beyond.”

— Cameran Zech Co-Host and Producer, Associate Director of Media Relations

75th Anniversary 2024 | 23

Th se C re aT ur

24 | University of San Diego Magazine

I n Spring 2023, the USD Board of Trustees adopted updated vision and mission statements for the university. This year, USD celebrates 75 years as an anchor institution — 75 years being a part of the community and 75 years working alongside its neighbors near and far to make the world a better place. The updated

The vision states that “strengthened by the Catholic intellectual tradition, we confront humanity’s challenges by fostering peace, working for justice and leading with love.” Those aren’t just catchy taglines or lofty goals. Those words, chosen with the utmost care, are the university’s true north. They inform decisions, directions and strategy. The vision and mission are embodied through six core values — academic excellence, Catholic identity, human dignity, care for our common home, ethical conduct and compassionate service, and inspired and meaningful lives.

vision and mission speak to the community’s deep commitment to service and compassion.

USD’s mission states that “we are advancing academic excellence to create a more inclusive, sustainable … and hopeful world.”

In the stories that follow, you’ll learn more about the meaningful and inspiring ways through which Toreros live out USD’s mission, vision and values.

75th Anniversary 2024 | 25