April is a busy time for all, so I’ll keep the updates brief! Here in the Dean’s Office, we are meeting with stakeholders around the college and central administration to discuss FY24 budget. We are also looking ahead to goals for the year to come, including growing our Dean’s Research Program, raising funds for transfer scholarships, rolling out our biotechnology minor, and preparing the college to welcome a new dean.
Growing capacity at Cedar Creek
Plans are moving ahead for an addition to the Lindeman Research and Discovery Center at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve with support from the WEM Foundation. Two new classrooms will allow the station to continue to grow its K-12 programs. These spaces, along with the new MN Ecology Walk, will make Cedar Creek more accessible and provide the infrastructure needed to reach more students and members of the community in years to come.
Recognizing our outstanding alumni
Each year, the college recognizes alumni in three categories. The deadline to nominate alumni for a 2023 award is April 20. I know many staff and faculty stay in contact with former students and are in the loop about their professional achievements. I encourage you to submit a nomination if you know an alum doing great things in their field or their community. Recipients are honored at the college’s annual recognition dinner in the fall. Go to the Alumni Awards page on the CBS website for more information.
Opportunities to engage
This month presents a number of events focused on aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and access, including an upcoming screening of Picture a Scientist hosted by the GCD DEI committee. The film focuses on the personal experiences of several influential scientists and offers insights into how to make science more diverse, equitable and inclusive. There will be a discussion following the screening. If you can fit it into your schedule, consider attending. You’ll find event details here. The college is also sponsoring the Bell’s annual SciPride event showcasing the work of LGBTQIA+ scientists and engineers. Anyone interested in participating should respond to their call by May 5.