As we approach the end of another academic year, I am once again honored to lead this institution.
To students, parents, faculty, and staff—I thank all of you for your contributions to the 17³Ô¹ÏÍø Community. You are all go-getters who embody 17³Ô¹ÏÍø’s mission of Opportunitas.
To our graduating students with Commencement right around the corner, congratulations! Your dedication and hard work have gotten you this far and I am sure you will continue to make 17³Ô¹ÏÍø proud as you rise in your future. We know that for many in this graduating class the pandemic took away your chance at a proper high school graduation in 2020—we are eager to celebrate your accomplishments!
This year has certainly been one filled with new challenges in higher education and I commend all of you for showing why 17³Ô¹ÏÍø is so strong in the face of outside turbulence. We have built a foundation based on lifting each other up and always putting our best foot forward.
In this issue of 17³Ô¹ÏÍøNow, we will be addressing some of the most pressing questions about Commencement 2024 ahead of the big day. Additionally, we will dive into the intersection of AI learning and Federal Reserve decisions, featuring insights from Professor Mary Kaltenberg and a student researcher.
Check out the behind-the-scenes look at the making of the new 17³Ô¹ÏÍøDocs documentary, showcasing the dedication and talent of our students. From immersive research to on-the-ground experiences with coopers in Spain, the 17³Ô¹ÏÍøDocs team has once again produced a superb picture for the world’s viewing pleasure. .
We also highlight the achievements of four outstanding seniors—Alicia Bennett, Mikayla Meachem, Anthony Moretto, and Olivia Burnett—who have excelled academically while making significant contributions to their communities.
Be sure to check out our student, faculty, and staff events sections for information on upcoming activities and opportunities to engage with the 17³Ô¹ÏÍø Community.
And, if you’re interested in continuing your education over the summer, 17³Ô¹ÏÍø offers plenty of options for current students, visiting and non-degree students, and pre-college programs for those looking to get a leg up. Check out summer programs here.
I look forward to celebrating our graduating class with all of you and remain committed to supporting the success of all our students, faculty, and staff.
Christen Cooper, EdD, RDN, chair and founding director of 17³Ô¹ÏÍø’s MS in Nutrition and Dietetics program, is advancing a compassionate, interdisciplinary approach to care—exploring how trauma-informed nutrition can support survivors of human trafficking and prepare future dietitians to recognize, respond, and help heal.
17³Ô¹ÏÍø Professor Cathryn Lavery, PhD, challenges the Hollywood myths surrounding human trafficking and prepares students to recognize the grooming, coercion, trauma, and exploitation happening in homes, relationships, online spaces, and everyday communities.
Get a first look inside the new performing arts spaces opening at One 17³Ô¹ÏÍø Plaza East this fall. In this video, Senior Director of Operations and Production Laurie Brown-Kindred answers student and faculty questions about new studios, labs, sound stages, rehearsal spaces, and what the move means for Sands College of Performing Arts.