Office of Media Relations at the University of San Diego
October 7, 2025  |  View in web browser

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

October 7, 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.*

 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Shortcuts and Smart Devices – The Silent Threats in Your Digital Life

From saved passwords to smart toys, everyday conveniences can quietly expose us to cyber threats. Nikolas Behar, adjunct professor of cybersecurity, is available to talk about how digital shortcuts and household devices make families and individuals prime targets. He can also discuss what hackers already know about you and provide simple tips to reduce your risk.

World Mental Health Day

October 10 is World Mental Health Day, which raises awareness of mental health issues and mobilizes efforts in support of mental health. In the U.S., 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 6 youth experience mental illness each year. Lauren Bruaski is the director of USD Tele-mental Health Training Clinic, which has tele-mental health providers available for our community here in San Diego, who serve K-12 students and their families, as well as veterans and military-connected individuals. She is available to discuss available services and share mental health tips, especially ahead of the holiday season. *Available on Tuesday and Thursday

California Signs First Law on Artificial Intelligence Safety

Recently, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law on artificial intelligence to "enhance online safety by installing commonsense guardrails," positioning California as a leader in "responsible and ethical AI." The new law will require developers to publicly publish how the AI company has incorporated standards into their AI framework and will establish a new consortium within the Government Operations Agency, amongst other safety measures. Sophia Baik, assistant professor of communication, studies AI ethics and can share more about what this new AI law means for Californians and what this will mean for AI regulations looking ahead.

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

Finding Success On and Off the Field - A Conversation with USD Soccer Star, Kate Sealy

 

 

Kate Sealy, an all-star defender on USD's Women's Soccer team, joined the "At the Edge of It All" team to talk about how she balances being a student-athlete while excelling in her accounting classes. Sealy also shared how her coaches have supported her while she pursues a competitive internship while juggling a full course load. Listen 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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