From the Dean
May 31, 2023
Two thousand alumni in 30 years. What a wonderful milestone to reach as we wrap up our 30th-anniversary year! We salute our 2,004 leadership studies alumni, who lead and contribute to their organizations and communities around the world.
Since our inaugural Class of 1994 comprising 38 graduates, interest in leadership studies has continued to grow. The 98 graduates in our Class of 2023 include seven Jepson Scholars heading to University of Oxford graduate programs, a Fulbright Scholar, a Critical Language Scholar, and numerous recipients of University awards—all recognized May 7 at Commencement. We are #LeadingTheWay!
In addition to Commencement, the Jepson Research Symposium was a highlight of the spring semester. It featured the research of 22 students, including that of seven seniors who, with the support of faculty mentors, undertook honors theses in topics ranging from NBA and NFL athletes’ activism, to gender-based violence, to the impact of U.S. political polarization on science.
This kind of robust student research is possible, in part, thanks to your generosity. Nowhere was that generosity more evident than on April 4-5 during the University’s annual UR Here Giving Day. The Jepson School raised $135,060—money that supports student research and other kinds of experiential learning, such as Dr. Al Goethals’ Presidential Leadership class trip to Monticello in April.
Speaking of Dr. Goethals, we celebrated his many contributions to the School at his bittersweet retirement party earlier this month. We also bid a fond adieu to Dr. Kenneth Ruscio, former dean of the School and visiting distinguished lecturer for the past few years. Dr. Ruscio gave the keynote remarks at Finale, our Commencement weekend celebration of our graduating seniors.
As this academic year draws to a close, we reflect with gratitude on the many people—faculty, students, staff, parents, alumni, and friends—who have contributed to the School’s flourishing during the past 30 years, even as we eagerly anticipate the School’s next 30 years.
Warmest regards,
Sandra J. Peart
Dean and E. Claiborne Robins Distinguished Professor in Leadership Studies
President, Jepson Scholars Foundation