Dean David E. Richardson. Photo by Michel Thomas.
From the Dean: Navigating changes, finding inspiration
As a chemist, I have always been fascinated by the way water is so central to geological history and life on our planet. In a foundational course I teach to undergraduates, we begin with the origin of elements, starting with hydrogen (H) — the universe’s most abundant element, initially created from protons and electrons combined in a cooling plasma. Later, oxygen atoms (O) emerged, produced in the cores of stars through the fusion of lighter elements like hydrogen. As the third most abundant element, oxygen readily pairs with two H atoms to produce water molecules (H2O). This fundamental chemistry brought water to Earth, forming oceans about 4 billion years ago.
Thanks to all that chemistry, water is everywhere in Florida. Whether in a creek, river, lake, wetland, spring, or ocean, water is nearby. I am often struck by the profound impact that water, in all its forms, has on our collective experiences. Indeed, the existence of life on earth requires water, and the oxygen we breathe (in the form of O2) is made from it by living cells with the help of sunlight.
During my tenure as Dean, I have watched our college transform into a hub for water research, environmental stewardship, and sustainability. Our dedication to these areas extends far beyond our campus, reaching communities near and far. This issue of Ytori celebrates some CLAS folks who are “making waves.” You will meet geographers tackling challenges of extreme weather, ecologists investigating how animals act as connectors between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and an Andean archaeologist exploring how the ancient past and present meet when approaching water issues.
With my time as Dean drawing to a close this summer, I want to thank you for your commitment to our shared vision where the study of nature, society, and humanity helps us understand the world on which we live. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve our students and help prepare them for the future.
Just as water continuously adapts and flows through obstacles, our college has evolved to meet the challenges and opportunities we have encountered. As we navigate new beginnings and endings, I hope you find inspiration in water’s transformative nature.
