USD Magazine Summer 2019

FROM THE PRESIDENT

DEAR TOREROS,

There have been many rewarding accomplishments at the University of San Diego over the course of this academic year. Of particular note is the recent generous $2.6 million pledge by Ron and Alexis Fowler, which will help USD advance its efforts to develop global ethical and responsible leaders committed to the common good through social innovation and social entrepreneurship. The Fowler Global Social Innovation Challenge will build upon the success of the Social Innovation Challenge, which was launched in 2011 as a joint program of the School of Business and the Kroc School of Peace Studies. Our faculty members continue to shine on the national and global stage. They are publishing acclaimed research and inspiring students and peers with their expertise and unquenchable quest for knowledge. For details of their many accom- plishments, take a look at our Faculty Newsnotes, which can be found online at sandiego.edu/fnn. USD students are also being acknowledged for their proficiency and problem-solving abilities. For example, this spring, a team of students from the School of Business’ Master of Science in Real Estate program were awarded first place in the 2019 ARGUS University Challenge, the seventh time that the university’s ARGUS team has taken top honors. The university also faced challenges this year. Obviously, we were shocked and saddened to learn about allegations reflected in the Department of Justice’s admissions investigation this spring. The Board of Trustees appointed a special committee to oversee the university’s response. The special committee, chaired by Dr. Constance Carroll, has met regularly since mid-March, and the full Board of Trustees continues to be updated. The actions by our trustees demonstrate their adherence to strong governance practices and an ongoing commitment to the highest levels of integrity in our admissions process. We engaged a law firm to conduct an independent investigation. The investigation is ongoing and is proceeding as expeditiously as possible, consistent with our commitment to a thorough review. We still have no reason to believe that any current or former employees, students or applicants — other than the three individuals identified by the government — were aware of or involved in any wrongdoing. If new or different information comes to our attention, through the investiga- tion or otherwise, we will take appropriate action to respond. I want to express my thanks to those of you who have reached out with your thoughts, care and concern. Find the latest update regarding this issue at sandiego.edu/president under Campus Messages. With Commencement upon us, we share the excitement that radiates throughout campus as we approach this culmination of our students’ journeys. We know that great things are ahead for them as they embark upon the next chapter of their lives. The University of San Diego remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the dignity of every person and fulfilling our vision of setting the standard for an engaged, contemporary Catholic university where innovative Changemakers confront humanity’s urgent challenges.

Sincerely,

James T. Harris III, DEd President