We are in the final quarter of this academic year, which started at the beginning of this month. I know we’ve all said it ourselves in our own ways, but it really does amaze me how quickly the time passes. It feels like just a few weeks ago we were welcoming a new year and beginning the winter quarter. Now here we are, and it’s spring already.

The last month has seen a tremendous amount of notable activity in the college, which isn’t unusual. The Center for Neuroscience hosted its annual (and very popular) NeuroFest event. This year’s event drew nearly 300 people for engaging talks and presentations, as well as the ever-popular neuro art contest. My congratulations to the center on another successful event.

UC Davis was also highly ranked in the 2023 QS World University Rankings, with special recognition in the broad categories of life sciences and medicine, and biological sciences. I am always pleased to see our campus - and our college - recognized for the outstanding efforts of our faculty, and the remarkable successes of our students.

And speaking of students, I had the great pleasure to be shadowed by CBS cell biology major Akash Sethi, who recorded the day’s happenings as part of the UC Davis Leadership Job Shadow Program. You can watch the video he created of our day, which included a number of fun interactions - plus some moments of struggle with our umbrellas in the rain and wind.

We have two months until this academic year ends. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy the gradually warming weather, and the clear, blue skies.