Dean's Message Spring 2024

Spring 2024

Catalyze. The word can refer to jump starting a chemical reaction, or more broadly, it can apply to the way words or actions can inspire change or cause something to start happening successfully in the world. This edition of Arts and Sciences invites us to reflect on catalysis in both of these senses. Our lead story introduces us to a breakthrough catalytic process developed by Chemistry Professors Abhishek Chatterjee and Eranthie Weerapana, which uses electricity to catalyze a protein reaction that itself promises to jump start development of significant biotherapeutic applications. And throughout this issue you’ll find examples of catalyzing words, actions, and accomplishments by our students, faculty colleagues, and alumni, including the work of an interdisciplinary research team led by Assistant Professor of Engineering Bryan Ranger using AI to create low-cost assessment tools to help address infant malnutrition, the publication of a critically acclaimed novel by English Professor Elizabeth Graver, junior Sancia Sehdev receiving a prestigious Goldwater Scholarship, and alumna Kristen Lappas producing and directing a recently released documentary film, Giannis: The Marvelous Journey. Senior Grace Lenahan, soon to begin a postgraduate fellowship at America Media, identifies the late Rev. Michael Himes of our Theology Department, as a catalyst for her BC journey: “He always told students about the three important questions to reflect on: What brings you joy? What are you good at? And who does the world need you to be? I think that was a compass which has directed me to these important experiences in my formation, and I feel very blessed.” Perhaps those inspiring words can be a compass and a catalyst for all of us in the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences community as this fruitful academic year draws to a close.

Gregory Kalscheur, S.J.
Dean, Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences