Welcome to the 2022-23 Academic Year

Welcome Back, Jonsson School

I want to extend a warm welcome and a happy new year to each of you as we begin 2023 in the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science at The University of Texas at Dallas.

This semester we continue in our strategic priority of the Year of Gratitude. Gratitude for all things big and small, and for me, gratitude for each of you who have chosen to learn, study, teach, innovate and work in the Jonsson School.

A new year brings reflection of what came before. We can debate the best achievements in engineering and computer science for 2022, but I think the list by Popular Science magazine includes innovations that are inspiring, motivating and elicit gratitude in us all.

The list also includes innovations that occurred in various countries across the globe. Building the world’s largest suspension bridge, hacking together a large hydrogen fuel cell mining truck and other innovations mentioned were the result of international teams working together to solve problems. Inclusive excellence produces tangible positive outcomes.

We will continue to strengthen working relationships and collaboration with others. As an institution of higher learning, we embrace the free exchange of ideas and belief that we are better and stronger when we can discuss information vigorously and bring our life experiences — our most authentic selves — as we apply scientific principles to solve major problems. Indeed, research substantiates that varied perspectives yield better solutions. A culture of inclusive excellence in the Jonsson School means valuing inclusivity and creating a welcoming space for reach person regardless of nationality, race, ethnicity, philosophy, religion, class, physical and mental ability, sexual orientation and gender identity.

One small step toward greater inclusion and belonging is improving our awareness right here in our Jonsson School community. Whether you recognize a person’s observance, share a meal together or simply remember them during the course of your day, you are helping to build an environment where all Comets and Fearless Engineers feel welcome and at home. I encourage you to visit our Cultivating Consciousness webpage as a springboard to learn more about each other. We can also begin to build more connections with our surrounding community, as our Department of Mechanical Engineering did in December when they initiated our participation in the City of Richardson’s annual holiday parade.

At the Fall 2022 graduation ceremonies, I shared more about this year’s theme of gratitude and how paying attention is so important. I was astounded by our student speakers, particularly Sarah Tao BS’22 who delivered a moving speech about belonging. I want to continue to express gratitude to our faculty and staff who pivoted quickly at each of the turns over the last several years because of the pandemic, then remained steadfast in going above and beyond to ensure a quality experience for students. I ask students to join me in thanking the faculty and staff who work tirelessly and often go above and beyond expectations.

I hope each of you is ready for another fantastic semester.

Regards,
Stephanie/Dean Adams

Stephanie G. Adams, PhD, F.ASEE
Dean and Lars Magnus Ericsson Chair
Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science
The University of Texas at Dallas
Former President, American Society for Engineering Education