Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
February 18, 2025  |  View in web browser

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

February 18, 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.*

Flu Season Surging in San Diego and Across U.S.

Across the U.S., hospitals are reporting a sharp increase in flu cases. Here in San Diego County, there have been twice as many reported flu cases as this time last year, and three times as many as the average of recent years. Laura Truman is a clinical associate professor of nursing at USD and works in urgent care. She can talk about the spike in flu cases and what health care providers are seeing this year. She can also give tips on how to stay healthy this flu season.

Egg Shortage – What’s Next for Consumers?

As the egg shortage continues to drive up prices and disrupt availability nationwide, Simon Croom, professor of supply chain management, is available to offer expert analysis. From bird flu to ongoing supply chain disruptions, Croom can explain the root causes, what consumers should expect in the coming months and when we might see a return to normal.

Study Reveals Wildfires May Release More Toxic Chemicals Than Anticipated

A recent study co-authored by Claudia Avila, assistant professor of environmental and ocean sciences, reveals the impacts of wildfire-induced soil chemical changes. The research highlights the need for better techniques to monitor soil and ecosystem changes, which could improve wildfire recovery strategies. Avila comes from a family of farmworkers and uses her heritage to inspire her work. She created the Xingona Dirt Science Lab at USD and is dedicated to inspiring future scientists. She is available to discuss the study’s findings and provide a tour of the dirt lab.

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

USD Earns STARS Gold Award for Sustainability

 

The University of San Diego recently earned a STARS gold rating from the AASHE, a national organization that promotes sustainability in higher education. The gold rating recognizes USD as being a leader among the nation's universities for its sustainability programs and renewable energy projects.

 

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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