Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
December 17, 2024 | View in web browser
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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 7, 2024.
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Sustainable Gift Giving Ideas To Reduce Waste
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The holiday season often creates extra waste from wrapping paper, gift boxes, and packaging. One way to reduce this is by practicing "actionable giving" — volunteering your time instead of giving physical gifts. In fact, 15% of Americans say they plan to give their time to nonprofits this year (with 62% giving monetarily). John Alejandro, Director of Sustainability at USD, can discuss how people can find gifts that provide experiences for loved ones vs. physical items and support local businesses and nonprofits at the same time. Alejandro’s team also recently hosted an event at USD with local nonprofits to encourage students to think with an “actionable giving” mindset this holiday season. *B-Roll Available*
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Social Media’s Influence on Holiday Shopping
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According to a recent Sprout Pulse Survey, 89% of consumers report that social media influences their holiday shopping decisions. Justine Farrell, chair of USD's marketing department, can provide insight into the growing role of social platforms in shaping consumer behavior. She can also discuss how social media trends, influencer marketing, and targeted ads are driving purchasing decisions this holiday season.
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CyberPreneurs: Where Cybersecurity Meets Entrepreneurship - USD Students Develop AI-Based Tools to Combat Future Hacks
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Cyberattacks have doubled since the pandemic and are becoming more sophisticated and easier to execute. In response, cybersecurity engineering students at USD are engaged in a master's program that leverages AI-based technology to develop innovative solutions for emerging cybersecurity threats. As AI takes on tasks like coding and designing algorithms, cybersecurity professionals are well-positioned to create tailored defenses. USD students also gain valuable entrepreneurship experience, preparing to launch cybersecurity companies in an industry projected to exceed $424 billion by 2030. Haydar Majeed, Academic Director of USD's Cybersecurity Engineering master’s program, can discuss the need for hands-on, entrepreneurship-focused education in this growing field. A student is also available for an interview.
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* Please note that times of availability will vary according to professors' schedules.
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The Athletics Edge: The Value of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) in an Athlete's Sense of Belonging
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In the latest episode of The Athletics Edge, Kimya Massey, Athletic Director of the University of San Diego (USD), shared how his childhood sports experiences shaped how he makes DEI initiatives a part of the athletics programs he oversees. Massey also discussed how leaders can similarly implement DEI programming both on and off the sports field -- to generate a community of belonging within their teams. Listen Here.
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Office of Media Relations
University of San Diego
5998 Alcalá Park, San Diego, CA 92110
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