UMD Swenson College of Science & Engineering

10/12/2026

🏆 First place for UMD research!

Congratulations to Civil & Environmental Engineering grad student Mariel Castillo, who won first place in the Master’s Student Presentation category at the International Mine Water Association Conference in South Korea! 🇰🇷

Mariel presented collaborative research on innovative mine water treatment alongside Professor Chan Lan Chun and their research team.

👏 Great work, Mariel and team!

10/08/2026

🤖 What is AI really doing to students?

UMD Computer Science Professor Ted Pedersen recently spoke with Northern News Now about the potential risks of AI use among students. From overreliance and misinformation to privacy concerns and the loss of critical thinking and human connection.

As AI becomes an increasingly common part of everyday life, Pedersen emphasizes the importance of using the human resources around us, including teachers, professors, tutors, counselors and writing centers.

💬 “Getting help from people is an important skill to develop.”

Read the full story from Northern News Now to learn more about AI dependency, AI relationships and how students can use technology thoughtfully: https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2026/09/02/what-is-artificial-intelligence-really-doing-students/

Experts say there are concerns about dependency, privacy, misinformation and mental health as students spend more time interacting with AI.

10/05/2026

🚀 Where can a STEM degree take you?
Meet the three UMD alumni being recognized as the 2026 Inspiring Scientists and Engineers!
Their careers have taken them in different directions, but they all share a connection to UMD and a commitment to making an impact in their fields.
And you can hear their stories in person!
Speakers Seminar:
📅 Friday, October 9
🕐 1:30–3:00 p.m.
📍 Bohannon 90
🎟️ Open to the public

10/01/2026

🔬 Meet two of the 2026 Academy of Science & Engineering inductees!
Robert Carlson, Ph.D. and Daniel Palo, Ph.D., PE have each built impactful careers in science and engineering, from environmental chemistry and research leadership to applied innovation and industry.
Want to hear their stories? Join them and the other 2026 awardees on October 9, 1:30–3 p.m. in Bohannon 90 for the Featured Speakers Seminar.
Open to the public! 🎓

09/16/2026

🍂 EXPERT ALERT: Did this year’s drought steal our fall colors?

Fall color season is almost here, so we asked UMD biologist and leaf expert Jessica Savage, PhD, what we can expect this year. 🍁

The short answer? Not necessarily! Recent precipitation may help offset some of the effects of this summer’s drought, and the cool evenings we’ve experienced are a promising start for a vibrant and long-lasting foliage season.

Jessica expects peak color in Duluth in early to mid-October, although the exact timing will depend on the weather and where you are. 🌊 Lake Superior can actually delay color change in areas right along the shore!

Swipe through for Jessica’s answers to four questions about this year’s fall colors, including her favorite places to enjoy the season. 🍁🌲

📸 Ready to go leaf-peeping? Tag us in your fall color adventures!

Read the full thing here: https://d.umn.edu/news/did-years-drought-steal-our-fall-colors-we-asked-expert?_gl=1*ounazn*_gcl_au*Mjg3NjkwNDguMTc4NzE5MzU3Ng

09/15/2026

🎉 Congratulations, Professor James Sellers!

We are thrilled to celebrate Professor James Sellers, who has received two 2026 awards from the Mathematical Association of America (MAA): the prestigious Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics and a Meritorious Service Award! 👏

The Haimo Award recognizes professors whose extraordinary teaching and influence extend far beyond their own institutions. For decades, Dr. Sellers has inspired students to see mathematics in new ways, building confidence, curiosity, and a genuine sense of belonging in his classrooms.

One student described his impact beautifully: “Dr. James Sellers changed the course of my life. Without a doubt, I chose to be a mathematics major because of his teaching.”

His passion for mathematics and dedication to his students and the broader mathematical community make this recognition especially meaningful.

Congratulations, Dr. Sellers, on these incredible and well-deserved honors! 📚➗

Read more about the awards here: https://scse.d.umn.edu/articles/sellers-maa-award

09/14/2026

Check out all of the career events this week to help you land an internship or job & prepare for the career fair and your next interview!

08/31/2026

Happy first day of classes Bulldogs!
📚 Dean Wendy Reed's #1 tip for a successful semester: GO TO CLASS.
Research backs it up. Attendance is one of the strongest predictors of college success, even stronger than your SAT score or study habits. See you in the front row👋

(Source: Credé, Roch & Kieszczynka meta-analysis, Review of Educational Research)

08/28/2026

Welcome week vibes are awesome! We love meeting our new students and sharing our UMD Bulldog spirit. Here's wishing you all the best as you start your college journey - we're here for you and can't wait to see all that you accomplish!

08/21/2026