Welcome back from winter break

Welcome back! The beginning of the spring semester has arrived. I trust that over the next several months, each of us will work hard to achieve all we set out to accomplish at the beginning of the academic year.

You’ve probably heard that we’re celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Graduate College. As part of the celebration, we want to recognize the contributions made by graduate faculty. We’re planning a special event in March to recognize graduate faculty’s role in advancing teaching, advising, research and mentorship over the last 80 years. Stay tuned for more details, with a save-the-date, to follow soon!

Like you, the Graduate College has been working on several ambitious goals. One of which has been to improve usability and upgrade the technology of one vital university process that touches all graduate students — the interactive plan of study (iPOS). I’m proud to say that after two years of diligent work, and receiving recognition for innovation from Oracle, the iPOS has successfully launched. Now, all ASU graduate students, faculty and advisors can access and work in the new iPOS. There are many important improvements you should be aware of. I recommend you watch this introduction video to familiarize yourself with the new iPOS.

Another initiative we’re working towards is continually developing supportive networks where faculty and students engage in mentorship, and educate around issues of inclusion. In August 2017, the Graduate College launched the HUES mentoring program specifically to support the LGBTQ+ community. I’m honored that the Committee for Campus Inclusion recognized the impact these mentors are having by awarding us the Catalyst Award for our efforts of igniting social transformation. I have no doubt that these faculty to student and peer to peer mentor relationships will have positive impact on both mentors and mentees for years to come.

If you’re interested in mentoring or in being mentored, I invite you to join me and Vice Provost Deborah Clarke, during our 31st Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards on January 30, where we will recognize the mentorship of the most deserving graduate faculty.

As we begin the semester, I find myself optimistic and energized by all of these efforts, but especially by the work of graduate students I have the privilege of witnessing.

Keep up the outstanding work, fresh thinking, courage and desire to make a difference. You can, you will, you are!

Alfredo J. Artiles,

Dean