Good morning newsrooms!

Here's your USD News Connect — where each week the University of San Diego media relations team offers expert voices to speak on stories impacting our community. If you're interested in the stories below, or need experts for any other topic you might be working on, don't hesitate to reach out to us at press@sandiego.edu.*

Will the Heat Bring More Flex Alerts this Summer?

When the summer heat comes, residents are oftentimes encouraged to conserve energy use during flex alerts. Are more flex alerts inevitable this summer -- especially after last year's rolling blackouts? Scott Anders, Director of the Energy Policy Initiatives Center at USD, can provide insight on what we can expect from our power grids during the summer, why we see flex alerts and if this is something we will see more of in the future.

Back-to-School: How can students use the online skills they gained during virtual learning to help them excel in the classroom?

Joseph Lathan, Professor of Practice and Director of Online Programs in the Department of Learning and Teaching at USD, can discuss tips for students and parents to leverage online digital tools learned while class was held virtually and how these resources can promote a richer learning experience.

Dealing with Long-Term Stress from the Pandemic

Whether you're an Olympic gymnast or a business owner, everyone deals with stress. But, what are the effects of long-term stress on our mental health -- especially in the midst of an ongoing pandemic? Carrie Tremble, Clinical Director of USD's Tele-mental Health Training Clinic, can provide expert insight on this topic and share how to recognize and cope with stressors. Tremble is also currently studying the mental health of elite athletes.

For all media inquiries, email our team at

press@sandiego.edu.

* Please note that times of availability will vary according to professors' schedules.

Mark Chapman, Assistant Professor of Integrated Engineering

Photo courtesy: Hart Photography

The First Miss California Volunteer is a USD Student

University of San Diego student Caroline Azer was recently crowned Miss California Volunteer 2021. She is the first to receive this title. Azer is currently studying behavioral neuroscience with a double minor in chemistry and biomedical ethics. After completing her undergraduate degree, she plans to pursue a career in the medical field.