News from the Chronicles - May 2025

photo of doctor with patient, both looking at clipboard
High blood pressure linked to degenerative diseases in Black Americans

A new research study found that Black Americans diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension in midlife had significantly higher levels of a dementia-related biomarker more than a decade later. The study followed more than 250 participants with high blood pressure, diabetes or both conditions. The researchers found that while one diagnosis alone did not indicate a dramatic neurological effect, having both led to striking results: “This matters. This…

photo of earth mound, covered with grass, twilight
Radiocarbon dating techniques re-setting Indigenous histories

A session organized by UGA faculty at the Society for American Archaeology Meetings in early May discussed the ways recent innovations in radiocarbon dating are rewriting the history of Indigenous sites.  Many of these new histories are challenging conventional wisdom about Indigenous persistence, or the lack thereof, in the face of European contact, researchers reported during a session co-organized by Jennifer Birch, professor of…

graphic with arch, white text on red rectangles, three vertical pillars
Innovation Initiative: Transforming Academic Culture in the Arts and Sciences

The Franklin College Innovation Initiative is designed to guide our efforts and focus into the next era of American higher education. Dean Anna Stenport provides an outline of the three-part initiative 1) Academic Innovation, 2) Research Partnerships and Public Engagement, and 3) Student Success, in a series of interviews discussing the context of this ambitious enterprise and plans for implementation. "The Franklin College commitment to…

photo of woman outdoors
Franklin double major Yeongseo Son named a Knight-Hennessy Scholar

2025 University of Georgia graduate, scientist and storyteller in training Yeongseo Son has been selected for the 2025 Knight-Hennessy Scholarship, a global graduate-level program at Stanford University. Son, a Foundation Fellow and Stamps Scholar who earned bachelor’s degrees in anthropology and biochemistry and molecular biology as well as a certificate in immunology, all from the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, attended high school in…

photo of people taking selfies in stadium, crowd in background
Alumni speakers inspire graduates at spring 2025 convocations

  Jarryd Wallace, (AB Communications Studies '19) keynote speaker as well as four-time Paralympian and two-time bronze medalist, shared lessons he learned from the tests he’s faced during UGA’s undergraduate Commencement ceremony held May 9. “That’s what trials do — they forge something in us that comfort never could. They teach us to keep going when nothing makes sense. To believe when hope feels distant. To see ourselves not by what we’…

group photo of people on mountain top, with signs, snow
Psychology goes global: UGA’s study abroad transforms students and faculty

The University of Georgia Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Department of Psychology offers transformative study abroad programs that immerse students and faculty in diverse cultures, fostering personal growth, academic enrichment, and global perspectives. From Tanzania’s savannas to Italy’s historic hills, these experiences blend psychology with cultural exploration, leaving lasting impacts on participants’ academic and career paths. We…

screenshot of interactive map, with text and place marks
Franklin students sweep GenAI Competition for creative projects

Designed to spur innovative uses for the technology, the second UGA Generative AI Competition, sponsored by the Office of Instruction and Franklin College of Arts and Sciences’ department of philosophy, recognized student AI projects that enrich the UGA community or experience. The three top prizes went to Franklin College students who submitted projects to used generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, DALL-E and Amper to bring their creations to…

photo of diver pursuing turtle underwater
Biology major Skibsted named 2025 Udall Scholar

Michael Skibsted, a third-year Honors student from Ladera Ranch, California, majoring in ecology in the Odum School of Ecology and biology in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, has earned a 2025 Udall Scholarship. The University of Georgia undergraduate is one of 55 students across the nation recognized for leadership, public service and commitment to issues related to the environment. The Udall Scholarship is awarded to sophomores and…

woman dances in room, people and banner in background.
Riden Family steps up for UGA Dance

After returning to the U.S. following World War II, Victor Riden Jr. graduated from the UGA while his wife Annette worked as a secretary for the university. The Riden family's deep connections to UGA, both historically and in the future have taken form in generous support for the UGA department of dance as the newly named Victor and Annette Riden Lobby in the Dance Building: The couple had two children, Martha and Vic Riden III, who earned his…

group photo of people holding banners with brnding
A celebration of dedication: 2025 Franklin College Staff Awards

The University of Georgia Franklin College of Arts and Sciences celebrated its dedicated staff members during the 2025 Staff Appreciation Awards and Reception, held on May 21. This annual event honored staff for their outstanding contributions, commitment, passion and service to the college, recognizing both individual excellence and years of service milestones. The ceremony opened with remarks from Hollis Yates, Publications Manager and…

Support Franklin College

We appreciate your financial support. Your gift is important to us and helps support critical opportunities for students and faculty alike, including lectures, travel support, and any number of educational events that augment the classroom experience.

 Click here to learn more about giving

Every dollar given has a direct impact upon our students and faculty.

OSZAR »