CAS Chronicles
Stories
Memorial funds honor USF anthropologist Curtis Wienker, support student research
Created by his family, the funds support the biomedical anthropology program and establish the Curtis Wienker Viva Cuba Memorial Fund — each reflecting a distinct dimension of Wienker’s decades-long career as an educator, researcher and mentor.
May 13, 2026Community Engagement
Z News earns first place in international competition, setting new standard for USF student journalism
USF’s student‑run newscast, Z News, received the Broadcast Education Association’s Dr. Marjorie Yambor Television Signature Station Award, taking first place in this year’s international competition. This marks the program’s third time placing — and its first time earning the top distinction.
May 13, 2026Accomplishments
17-Year-Old USF Graduate Zayd Nayeem Accelerates Path to Medicine and Service
In spring 2025, Nayeem joined the Department of Chemistry as an intern under the mentorship of his professor, Jhon Figueroa. Over the course of a semester, he helped test new laboratory equipment that is now used in general chemistry courses. Figueroa said Nayeem stood out for both his intellect and work ethic.
May 12, 2026Accomplishments
'Strongest' issue yet: 'Saw Palm' celebrates 20 years of Florida literature and art
Managed and edited by students in USF’s creative writing MFA program, “Saw Palm” is both a literary journal with global reach and a hands-on learning laboratory that offers students direct experience with the publishing process — from soliciting submissions to evaluating and selecting work for publication.
May 12, 2026Community Engagement
Internship grant opens doors for humanities students
Arielle Kessler grew up hearing stories about her great-grandmother’s experiences in Nazi-occupied Europe. When the history major came across an opportunity to intern at the Florida Holocaust Museum, she saw it as a chance to honor the many millions of people who did not survive the genocide.
May 12, 2026Community Engagement
With life sciences solutions in high demand, U.K.-Florida Innovation Corridor is thriving
Department of Molecular Biosciences Chair Marcus Cooke highlighted the importance of universities and research institutions in supporting life science companies, noting that strong academic partnerships create opportunities for commercialization, workforce development and scientific advancement.
May 12, 2026Community Engagement
Building tomorrow’s strategists: Global and National Security Institute empowers CAS students through real-world experience
CAS students in the Future Strategist Program took the lead at this year’s International Security Experience, organizing a full day of panels with experts from the CIA, NATO and top universities. Their work offered hands‑on experience in planning, strategy and communication while showcasing the growing impact of GNSI across campus.
May 11, 2026Community Engagement
USF confers more than 8,000 degrees during commencement ceremonies
This semester’s youngest graduate and oldest graduate both earned degrees from the College of Arts and Sciences.
May 11, 2026Accomplishments, Alumni
Hot off the press: Add these new books by CAS faculty and alumni to your summer reading list
From reverent poetry and epic novels to thought-provoking nonfiction, faculty and alumni alike have contributed compelling titles that deserve a spot on your summer reading list. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, traveling, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, these books offer a chance to explore new ideas while celebrating the creative and scholarly impact of the USF community.
May 7, 2026Research
Student Voices: How I gained confidence and career readiness through the Mellon Humanities Internship Program
This internship helped me strengthen my resume by providing an experience that extends beyond the classroom. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the Mellon Humanities Internship Program has given me, and I highly recommend it to students who are looking to build professional skills and stand out before graduating.
May 4, 2026Community Engagement
History major working with Florida Holocaust Museum to create exhibit on Holocaust survivor, Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel
CAS students are helping to catalogue artifacts, correspondence, photographs and other material that will lead to a permanent museum exhibition on the life, works and teachings of the Nobel Peace Prize recipient.
April 30, 2026Community Engagement
CAS student selected as NOAA Hollings Scholar
Second-year USF College of Arts and Sciences student Mckenzie Newbern will intern with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in summer 2027 after building a solid foundation working on oyster restoration projects in the Tampa Bay region.
April 23, 2026Accomplishments