University of Florida Homepage

CLAS in the News

Clues to the lives of North America’s first inhabitants are hidden underwater

Emeritus anthropologist Barbara Purdy comments on the potential for fast-developing technology to explore the cultural clues that lie below the surfaces of freshwater springs, lakes and rivers.

UF Chemistry team laughing at event

Bishop Middle builds community through exploration

UF Chemistry students demonstrate experiments to inspire the next generation of scientists at a local middle school.

Man hugs his family in celebration after his release from 34 years in prison after being exonerated.

Man exonerated after serving 34 years for armed robbery

Lora Levett, professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminology and Law, was consulted as an expert in the review of an armed robbery case that resulted in the exoneration of an imprisoned man after 34 years.

A man looking up at the stars

Scientists believe they have found a crucial building block of life on an asteroid

Astrobiologist Amy Williams discusses samples from an asteroid that could reveal clues about the beginnings of life on Earth.

Palo Alto

The marvellous boys of Palo Alto

In the wake of tech industry scandals like cryptocurrency and bank collapses, UF Professor of Creative Writing David Leavitt reflects on his past in Palo Alto, a major city in present-day Silicon Valley.

A Brazilian road-building plan could push the Amazon past the breaking point

Brazilian administrations, whether of the right or left, have promoted an ambitious project to boost exports and the economy with new roads, dams and industry that threaten the region’s fragile rainforest ecosystem – and harm the world’s climate in the process – writes Robert T. Walker, professor of Latin American Studies and Geography, for The Conversation.

‘Revolutionary’ blue crystal raises hope, questions

Researchers at the University of Rochester report this week in Nature a new material that is superconductive at room temperature, but while UF Professor James Hamlin, who was not involved with the work, says it would be 'completely revolutionary,' he also is not yet convinced.

pink pigeon

Gender reveal parties are turning nature pink and blue

From trendy gender-reveal parties to entrenched rituals surrounding national holidays, spectacles can wreak havoc on the environment, according to Bron Taylor, a professor of religion, nature and ethics at the University of Florida, who was quoted in a recent article in Popular Science.

Lending Library full of books

Free Library Boxes Spring Up in Gainesville

Associate Professor of Physics Heather Ray supports local community lending libraries throughout Gainesville, extending their reach to UF students by opening up a box outside her office.

2023’s Best States to Retire

Professor of Geography Stephen Golant offers advice on the factors to consider when selecting a location for retirement.

Alarmed by A.I. Chatbots, Universities Start Revamping How They Teach

Sid Dobrin, chair of the English department, offers his perspective as the rise of a popular new chatbot shakes up teaching and learning.

Ian’s Nasty Swipe at Sanibel Cuts Deep for Many Floridians. Here’s Why. — Tampa Bay Times

Professor of History and Rothman Family Chair in the Humanities Jack E. Davis comments on the rich history of Sanibel and its causeway in a discussion about the island's tug-of-war between development and conservation.

How Likely is a Brazilian Coup? — Newsweek

Professor Emerita of Anthropology Maxine L. Margolis offers an opinion piece on Brazil's upcoming presidential run-off between Bolsonaro and Lula, unpacking the likelihood of violence post-election.

Hailey Bieber Faces Accusations of ‘Cultural Appropriation’ for ‘Brownie Glazed Lips’ Look — Good Morning America

Associate Professor of Gender, Sexualities and Women's Studies Jillian Hernandez comments on the history of a popular beauty style at the center of a viral TikTok post facing backlash for 'cultural appropriation' among social media users.

Finland, Sweden and a New Transatlantic Relationship — The Hill

Associate Professor of Political Science Zachary Selden contributes an opinion piece about the potential shifts to a more constructive EU-NATO relationship once Finland and Sweden join NATO.

A Psychologist Breaks Down Your Love for Game of Thrones — Forbes

UF psychologist Gregory Webster's new study suggests that much of Game of Thrones' widespread appeal stems from a projection of ourselves onto the series' morally ambiguous characters.

‘Putting Yourself Out There’ is Key to Succeeding at the University of Florida’ — The Gainesville Sun

Current student Andy Shodell offers advice for students just beginning their journey and shares how the Bob Graham Center for Public Service inspired his trajectory.

Finland, Sweden Offer NATO an Edge as Rivalry Warms Up North — AP News

National security expert Zachary Selden offers his expertise in a discussion about the military and territorial implications should Finland and Sweden become NATO members.

photo of Dr. Jillian Hernandez

How the ‘Colombian Blue Jean’ Shaped Early Aughts Latinx Fashion — W Magazine

Jillian Hernandez of the Center for Gender, Sexualities and Women's Studies Research discusses the return of a 2000s fashion staple thanks to pop stars like Kali Uchis.

Puerto Rico Still Reels Nearly Five Years After Hurricane Maria — CNN

Political scientist Carlos Suárez Carrasquillo comments on the frustrations facing Puerto Ricans as they teeter on the brink of yet another political crisis.