OFFICE OF THE CHANCELLOR

September 22, 2025

ALL ACADEMICS, STAFF AND STUDENTS AT UC SAN DIEGO, INCLUDING UC SAN DIEGO HEALTH

Dear Triton Community,

Whether this is your first introduction to university life or you are a returning student, a faculty or staff member, I am delighted to welcome you to our vibrant community of scholars and innovators. As we begin the new academic year, I invite you to join us for Homecoming, Triton Weeks of Welcome, and countless other experiences showcased in our new campus calendar to help you make the most of your time on campus. We wish you a year filled with curiosity, creativity, new connections and success as you pursue your goals.

Celebrating Excellence, Progress and Global Impact

Our world-class education, groundbreaking research and renowned patient care reflect our commitment to excellence in all we do. And it shows – we are proud to be consistently recognized among the leading teaching and research institutions in the world. We are also honored to be the No. 2 most applied-to university in the country. Recently, we have earned impressive recognition:

Our faculty and researchers are leading experts in their fields, tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from developing cancer treatments to helping first responders attack wildfires. Across our campus and beyond, the ArtsConnect initiative is increasingly part of our foundational academic journey. And our $1.7 billion research enterprise pushes the boundaries of new discoveries every day. Together, we prepare the next generation of leaders to go forth and make their mark, changing our world for the better.

Transforming Our Campus

This fall will usher in some exciting changes to our campus as we continue to grow, transform and implement our recently refreshed Strategic Plan. Ridge Walk Living and Learning Neighborhood, a modern housing community for 2,400 students and the home of Thurgood Marshall College, officially welcomed its first residents this month. These students will be the first to enjoy a range of amenities, including a marketplace, study lounges, a Triton Esports Center (TEC2) and multipurpose spaces with sweeping ocean views. In the following months, we will open more spaces within Ridge Walk, including the future home of the Department of Economics in the School of Social Sciences, and also The Glass Center, a state-of-the-art glass studio where students and the community can create their very own glass masterpieces.

Triton Athletics

We are excited to welcome our new Director of Athletics Andy Fee to lead our NCAA Division I athletics program to even greater successes. This follows an incredible year in which 20 of 24 teams qualified for post-season competition, and both our men’s and women’s basketball teams made history as the first university to have both teams compete in the NCAA tournament in their first year of eligibility. We have also announced that we have accepted an offer to join the West Coast Conference in fall of 2027. This move aligns with our long-term strategic vision and will increase our audience and national presence as we compete against top-tier teams in a wide variety of sports. I look forward to seeing you in attendance as we cheer on our Triton teams!

Federal Updates and Opportunities for Advocacy

As we begin the academic year, we are facing unique challenges, but we are rising to meet them with innovation and resilience. Higher education institutions are navigating an increasingly complex landscape with likely reductions in federal support and shifting policy priorities. My leadership team and I continue to work diligently to advocate for our university’s continued success.

In partnership with our University of California leadership, legislative representatives, national association partners, and many dedicated supporters, we are demonstrating the many ways in which research universities strengthen our national security, economy and leadership on the world stage. We are advocating for continued research funding and student support, from both state and federal agencies. By pursuing opportunities, maximizing efficiencies, and planning for potential scenarios, we are focusing our efforts on sustaining our mission. The Cabinet, deans, provosts and I will keep you informed of any significant developments.

You can help advocate for our continued federal funding by participating in the Stand Up For UC campaign, sharing stories from our Behind Every Breakthrough campaign, or participating in the Speak Up for Science campaign.

Triton Community

This year, I challenge you to introduce yourself to someone new. Do your part to foster a climate of belonging. Lend a helping hand where it may be needed. Expand your mind to an idea you have not previously considered. Step out of your comfort zone. Reach out for support. Be brave and be bold. UC San Diego’s vibrant community would not be the same without you.

I also encourage you to participate in our second annual Common Read. The book selection is “Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World” by Justin Lee, which offers strategies to engage in dialogue with those whose opinions differ from your own.

Thank You

Thank you for all you do for this university and one another. We are stronger because of your brilliant minds, mentorship, passion and drive to succeed. Let’s make it the best year yet.

Go Tritons!

Pradeep K. Khosla                                                    
Chancellor
Joan and Irwin Jacobs Chancellor’s Endowed Chair