Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
December 12, 2023  |  View in web browser

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

December 12, 2023

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.*

NOTE: Due to USD's holiday break, the next News Connect will be sent January 9, 2024.

What Should You Do If Your Flight is Canceled or Delayed?

As the busy holiday travel stretch approaches, travelers should prepare themselves for possible flight changes. Thousands of flights were either canceled or delayed in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. What rights do you have when it comes to flying? Craig Barkacs, professor of business law, is available to speak on this topic and he can provide tips for travelers on the accommodations and compensation they can receive if their flights are canceled or delayed. 

What Does a Record Black Friday and Cyber Monday Mean for our Economic Health?

While inflation rates are hovering at more than 3%, holiday shoppers still came out in full force during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping season. The National Retail Federation estimates Americans spent more than $22 billion for online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, up compared to 2022. Alan Gin, associate professor of economics, can discuss what these holiday shopping numbers mean for our economic health and how inflation and high prices are still impacting Americans, regardless of the holiday shopping numbers. 

Growing Demand Putting Strain on Mental Health Care Professionals

A recent survey from the American Psychological Association points to a growing gap in our health care system. Psychologists who were surveyed say they're seeing a growing demand for mental health care services, but that demand may be outpacing the supply of mental health care professionals. Many said wait times are going up, and more than a third say they're experiencing burnout. Carrie Tremble is the director of the Tele-Mental Health Clinic at USD. She can talk about the trends she's seeing in the mental health care field, and can give tips on what people should do if they're seeking help.

For all media inquiries, email our team at

press@sandiego.edu.

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

  USD Spotlight

At the Edge of it All Podcast

"At the Edge of It All" Podcast: How a Biologist Found a Passion for the Oceans and their Voice in the Classroom

 

Cawa Tran, assistant professor of biology, joined "At the Edge of It All" to share her inspiring story - how her educational journey helped her discover her passion for the sea, and learn invaluable lessons about herself along the way. She also explains her work to better understand coral reefs, and how these organisms play a crucial role in our ocean's ecosystem. You can listen to the podcast episode here.

 

USD Media Relations

Lissette Martinez

Lissette Martinez

Senior Director, Media Relations

lissettemartinez@sandiego.edu

Elena Gomez

Elena Gomez

Associate Director, Media Relations

elenagomez@sandiego.edu

Cameran Zech

Cameran Zech

Associate Director, Media Relations

cbiltucci@sandiego.edu

Steven Covella

Steven Covella

Assistant Director, Media Relations

scovella@sandiego.edu

Visit our press hub →

University of San Diego
 

Office of Media Relations

University of San Diego

5998 Alcalá Park, San Diego, CA 92110

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