CAS Connection All Stories archive

Thinking critically, speaking out and engaging with the world is more critical now than ever. As CAS graduates prepare to step into their new role as global citizens, Dean Chris Poulsen offers advice on the power of giving back.

NEUROSCIENCE- For decades, scientists have believed that the outermost layer of our brain is divided into distinct areas, each responsible for performing different, separate information processing tasks. But recent research suggests the reality is more complex than that—and Evan D. Vickers wants to find out why.

ENGLISH - A groundbreaking digital humanities project brings theater history to the public, despite federal funding cuts. “The 18th-century London theater world has it all,” says Mattie Burkert, an associate professor of English and director of the digital humanities minor in the College of Arts and Sciences. “Scandals, government censorship, audience riots, labor strikes, market manipulation, corporate intrigue—you name it.”

The graduating class of 2025 represents the diversity of thought that is a hallmark of a liberal arts education. With 2,936 students graduating with a degree—including bachelor’s, master’s and PhD levels—this year’s group of CAS graduates is about 13% larger than class of 2024. Equipped with a liberal arts degree, these three graduating seniors are prepared to forge their own path.

In a new computer science capstone course, students contributed to a video game and helped Intel figure out how to limit its carbon emissions.

From teachers so beloved they’ve built a cult-like following to innovative researchers who are raking in patents, meet the recipients of the 2025 CAS Awards.

POLITICAL SCIENCE - New research by CAS political science assistant professor Neil O'Brian suggests that political beliefs affect patients’ trust in doctors. Democrats are more likely to trust their personal doctors and follow their doctors’ advice than Republicans, according to the research.

ANTHROPOLOGY, GLOBAL HEALTH - Mentored by professors Jo Weaver of global studies and Josh Snodgrass of anthropology, CAS students in this research group all share a common goal: conducting interdisciplinary research with a social impact.

PHILOSOPHY — When alum John Kaag’s mother forced him to take philosophy lessons from his Latin teacher in high school, he might not have imagined he'd pursue a career in philosophy. But he didn't imagine he'd co-found an AI-driven website that allows you to read classic books alongside literary experts, including "Walden" by Henry David Thoreau.