A message sent by Dean DeWalt to the CBS community on May 16, 2024.

Colleagues,

In the space of a week, we marked the accomplishments of our students at both undergraduate and graduate commencements, applauded our new McKnight professors Kate Adamala and Eric Seabloom, and recognized the contributions of our faculty and staff at the first CBS Faculty and Staff Celebration. It was fun, inspiring and a bit exhausting! In every instance, I was reminded of what makes this college great: you! Thank you for all that you do. 

Faculty promotions
In addition to all of the above, we will recognize faculty who recently received promotion and tenure this week. Kate Adamala (GCD), Kyle Costa (PMB), Trevor Wardill (EEB) and Feng Zhang (PMB) were promoted to associate professors. Kristina Prescott, Cheryl Scott and Charlie Willis (all BTL) were promoted to associate teaching professors. Congratulations on this wonderful accomplishment!

Opportunities to engage
With June just around the corner, mark your calendars for the University’s annual Juneteenth Celebration block party and commemorative march in North Minneapolis June 15. The event, which celebrates abolition, will include a lineup of speakers, music, food and many other activities. Closer to campus, the Bell Museum will hold its annual Spotlight Science: SciPride event June 29. SciPride celebrates the scientific contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community at the U of M with hands-on activities and demonstrations around the museum.

Heading north
This summer, I plan to embark on my final CBS rite of passage when I visit Itasca Biological Station for Nature of Life. I look forward to observing NOL in action and watching fledgling friendships form by the bonfire over a few short days in the northwoods. I hope you have ample opportunity to explore as well! Thank you for a wonderful year.

Best regards,

Saara J. DeWalt
Dean, College of Biological Sciences