Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
October 1, 2024  |  View in web browser

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

October 1, 2024

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.*

Governor Newsom Signs Bill to Stop the State from Using Foster Youth Survivor Benefits to Pay for Their Care

Governor Newsom recently signed AB 2906 which will prevent California counties from secretly using Social Security survivor benefits, belonging to foster children, to pay for their care. For the past several years, the Children’s Advocacy Institute at the University of San Diego’s School of Law (CAI) has been leading efforts nationwide to stop state and county foster care agencies from using Social Security benefits of eligible foster youth – even writing a report on the status of the situation. A representative from CAI, which co-sponsored AB 2906, is available to speak about the measure and the impact it will have on California foster youth. 

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Latinas Contribute $1.3 Trillion to U.S. Economy

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, it's essential to recognize the significant impact Latinas are making on the U.S. economy. According to a recent report, their contributions reached $1.3 trillion in 2021, up from $661 billion in 2010, reflecting a 51.1% growth. This showcases that Latinas contribute 2.7 times more to GDP than the non-Hispanic population. Karen Ortiz-Becerra, assistant professor of economics, is available to speak about the report's findings.

Sustainable Swap Meet Promotes Better Shopping Habits

Year after year, as new fashion trends become vogue and new products hit store shelves, the things they replace head to the landfill. Today, in an effort to promote sustainable shopping, USD will be putting on a Sustainable Swap Meet, where students will be able to sell and trade used clothing, household goods, and handcrafted items made from recycled materials. The media is welcome to attend the event on USD’s campus today, from 12:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Students and USD’s Director of Sustainability, John Alejandro, will be available for interviews. Please RSVP with press@sandiego.edu if you’d like to attend.

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

Cesar Bahena

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Cesar Bahena

 

We continue to celebrate the many contributions of our Toreros during Hispanic Heritage Month. USD soccer standout Cesar Bahena, who started playing the sport at age four and has become a key player for the Toreros, aims to excel as the ultimate goal-scorer and assist leader. Bahena is pursuing a business degree and a professional soccer career, with the hope of joining San Diego FC in the MLS, as his dedicated family continues to support his journey. As Bahena contributes to the University of San Diego's success on the field and in the classroom, he embodies the spirit of Lighting the Way Forward for the Torero community.

 

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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