Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
August 10, 2021 | View in web browser

USD News Connect: Connecting Expert Voices to the Stories Impacting Our Community

August 10, 2021

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.*

Home Building Supply Chain Issues Continue, Creating a Global Problem

The U.S. Secretary of Commerce and a few U.S. Senators recently met to discuss home building supply chain problems and its effect on housing shortages and prices. Simon Croom, professor of supply chain management, can discuss how this is not only a national issue but a global one. Croom can also share how wildfires, the increase in DIY housing projects and lumbar shortages have all contributed, amongst other elements, to the supply chain disruptions in the housing industry.

The Pandemic Caused Baby Boomers to Retire-- What is the Effect on the Economy for Years to Come?

During the pandemic, many baby boomers chose to retire earlier than they had expected. The Pew Research Center found the number of retired baby boomers rose more from 2019 to 2020 than in prior years. According to recent reporting, that trend continues. Alan Gin, professor of economics, can discuss what this means for the economy and for everyone else.

The Importance of a Mental Hygiene Routine & How to Start One Today

Taking care of our mental health, especially during a stressful time like a pandemic, should be a part of our daily routine -- just like brushing our teeth. Katie Lais, adjunct faculty at USD’s Hahn School of Nursing & Health Science, can share the top 3 things to avoid and enhance in your day to create an easy-to-follow mental health routine.

For all media inquiries, email our team at

press@sandiego.edu.

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

USD Expert Spotlight

Mark Chapman, Assistant Professor of Integrated Engineering

New Research: How Covid-19 Impacted the Cruise Industry

Andrew Tirrell, associate professor of political science and international relations, recently co-authored an article in the journal Ocean Development & International Law on the cruise ship industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tirrell argued states and cruise ships lacked clear guidance around their rights and responsibilities under the extraordinary circumstances, resulting in a less efficient response to a dangerous situation. He also offered proposed solutions to better address the situation in the future.