Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
February 11, 2025 | View in web browser

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

February 11, 2025

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.*

Inflation Impacting Valentine's Day Plans

According to a new WalletHub survey, 39 percent of Americans say inflation is impacting their Valentine’s Day plans. Dan Roccato, clinical professor of finance, is available to talk about the costs that come with celebrating the holiday this year and ways to save. He can also provide insight on how inflation is influencing consumer spending and offer practical tips for making the most of the holiday without breaking the bank.

New Year, New Goals: How to Set Intentions That Work, According to a Leadership Coach

We're a month into the new year and, for some, those New Year's resolutions could still be going strong or already forgotten. About 25% of people stay committed to their New Year's resolutions after 30 days. Lorri Sulpizio, director of the Conscious Leadership Academy at the University of San Diego, helps leaders grow in their careers. Sulpizio can share tips to help us rethink how we set goals.

Full Scholarships for San Diego Community Leaders

A new program from USD’s Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies aims to empower community leaders and help local organizations boost their impact on our region. The San Diego Community Fellowship will offer full-tuition scholarships for the Kroc School’s master’s programs. USD wants to train leaders in its own backyard, and equip them with the tools they need to take on some of the region’s most pressing challenges. The deadline to apply is March 30. Assistant Dean Frances Laviscount can explain how this fellowship can help transform our region and how to apply.

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

The Athletics Edge: USD's Baseball Team Kicks off Their Season This Friday

This weekend USD Baseball kicks off its season with a homestand against No. 23 TCU. Tomorrow, on "At the Edge of It All", you can hear from head coach Brock Ungricht and star two-way player Austin Smith. Ungricht talks about his journey as a player and coach, including what he learned from the legendary Tony Gwynn. And Smith talks about why he transferred to USD, and what goes into pitching and batting at a high level. You can find it wherever podcasts are available.