UCI Giving Day 2020

In the UCI School of Social Sciences, we have always been breaking down traditional barriers to create change in society, economies and for human well-being. Never has this boundaryless mindset been more important than today.

Due to the unexpected challenges created by COVID-19, Anteaters near and far were asked to learn and work differently. They struggled, but they succeeded, and two weeks ago over 2,700 social sciences Anteaters graduated, accounting for more than 27% of UCI’s bachelor’s degree recipients.

As we pivoted to remote instruction over the space of two weeks in March, faculty and staff rose to the occasion, navigating rapid change and adjusting in real time as we faced challenges of economic instability, caring for loved ones, working and teaching from home, while adapting to a new normal. Our students proved their resilience. Wherever they ended up settling in place, from Los Angeles to Korea, they finished up spring quarter with excellence. As dean, I couldn’t be prouder!

The world is changing around us. The pandemic is grinding on, and its economic consequences are ever more apparent. The country is collectively struggling with its history, and standing up to anti-Black racism. And social sciences is rising to the challenge, preparing for a fall quarter that will again require social distancing and remote learning, while we focus our research and service to meet the pressing needs of the day.

Today, we’re contacting our incredible social sciences Anteater network – more than 50,000 alumni strong – to remind you that we are here for you, too. And we're asking those of you who are in a position to do so, to join us in supporting our students and faculty.

#50for50 is the power of the UCI social sciences Anteater family standing united, showing our willingness to respond to challenges with optimism and generosity. When you multiply a $50 gift by 50,000 alumni, the power of UCI social sciences Anteaters becomes truly transformative.

Your support now is needed more than ever and will provide us the resources to immediately respond to the school’s greatest needs – student well-being, instruction and faculty research – during this time of incredible change.

Let’s change the world for the better, together. Join us in unleashing the power of #50for50.

Thank you and be well,

Bill Maurer, Dean