April 24, 2026

Dear Staff and Faculty of the Colleges of Arts and Sciences,

 

As we move to the final stretch of the semester, I want to share a few updates and recognize some outstanding accomplishments across the college.

 

First, I’m pleased to share a leadership update. Eric Wodahl has transitioned from his interim role and will now serve as associate dean for the College of Arts and Sciences. I’m grateful for Eric’s steady leadership during his time as interim, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in this new capacity.

 

I’d also like to congratulate the UW Debate Team, who recently earned national recognition at both the National Debate Tournament and the Cross-Examination Debate Association National Tournament. It's important to note that this squad is among the youngest in the country, with most debaters in their first or second year of collegiate competition. The team also received community-selected recognition, honored for best evidence and research, the “Bootstraps Award” for hardest-working small squad, and the Rookie Director Award. UW Debate Director David Rooney was named a CEDA Critic of the Year and selected to judge the national championship round. Again, congratulations to David Rooney and his team!

Have a great weekend. 

 

Sincerely, 

 

J. Scott Turpen