Office of Public Affairs at the University of San Diego
March 31, 2026  |  View in web browser

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

March 31, 2026

Good morning newsrooms!

Here's your USD News Connect — where each week the University of San Diego public affairs 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.*

 

Women's History Month Pitch: Recent Study Shows Why Women are Leaving the Workplace

A recent survey from Catalyst found more than 455,000 women left the workforce in early 2025, citing the cost of childcare as the biggest reason for leaving. While childcare costs are a major factor, the picture is broader. Pandemic-era federal aid expired, causing waitlists and price spikes, while the “Sandwich Generation” faces unprecedented dual caregiving burdens. Flexible work helps but can slow promotions, create coordination challenges and leaves frontline workers behind. This Women’s History Month in March, “Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” highlights the need for systemic solutions. Tara Ceranic Salinas, professor of business ethics, can discuss strategies employers can use to retain women, support caregivers and strengthen leadership pipelines.

April is National Stress Awareness Month 

The month of April spotlights the toll of chronic stress and the importance of healthy coping. About 75% of U.S. adults experience stress, according to The American Institute of Stress. Managing stress can improve sleep, heart health and mental well-being while reducing flare-ups of existing conditions. Lauren Bruaski, director of USD Tele-mental Health Training Clinic, is available to discuss strategies people can use to manage stress every day for all ages.

The Nonprofit Institute at USD to Present Local Nonprofits with Awards for Their Impact on San Diego County Communities

On April 1 and 2, The Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego will announce the winners of its prestigious awards that celebrate and inspire excellence in nonprofit leadership and governance throughout San Diego County. The announcement will take place during the institute’s annual Nonprofit Leadership and Governance Symposium, the region’s leading gathering for nonprofit executives, board members, philanthropists and community leaders. 

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

Beyond the Burnout - Finding Joy and Purpose in Nursing

 

In this episode of "At the Edge of it All," Theresa Nguyen, associate professor of nursing, shares how her passion for nursing began and what led her into a career in teaching. Nguyen also discussed how she is teaching the next generation of nurses to combat nursing burnout through small moments of joy and mental health techniques.

 

 Listen on Apple Podcasts here.

 

USD Public Affairs

Lissette Martinez

Lissette Martinez

Executive Director, Public Affairs and Strategic Communications

lissettemartinez@sandiego.edu

Elena Gomez

Elena Gomez

Associate Director, Public Affairs

elenagomez@sandiego.edu

Cameran Zech

Cameran Zech

Associate Director, Public Affairs

cbiltucci@sandiego.edu

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University of San Diego
 

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University of San Diego

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