Dean's Blog

Welcome to the blog of Dean Fernando R. Miralles-Wilhelm

Dr. Fernando Miralles-Wilhelm is the Dean of the College of Science at George Mason University. He is a hydrologist and water resources engineer with research interests in modeling of surface and groundwater systems, climate-hydrology-vegetation interactions, remote sensing applied to hydrologic cycle processes and water quality, and modeling of the water-energy-food nexus. Each week, he connects with the Mason Science community on topics ranging from college updates to his thoughts on current events.

Understanding the past to build a brighter futureFebruary 3, 2021

According to Ronald Reagan’s presidential proclamation, Black History Month is “a time to celebrate the many achievements of blacks in every field, from science and the arts to politics and religion. It not only offers black Americans an occasion to explore their heritage, but it also offers all Americans an occasion and opportunity to gain a fuller perspective of the contributions of black Americans to our Nation. The American experience and character can never be fully grasped until the knowledge of black history assumes its rightful place in our schools and our scholarship.”

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Be wellJanuary 27, 2021

As the semester begins, we test our resolve to deliver on our mission of providing high-quality science education, impactful research, and meaningfully engaging our community. I suggested we use the winter break to rest up and take care of ourselves, restoring our energy for this semester. For honestly, we will need mental strength and enthusiasm to tackle what lies before us.

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Biden administration presents significant opportunities for scienceJanuary 20, 2020

Impact. The importance and impact of science continues to dominate news headlines each day. COVID-19 vaccine to save humanity. Climate change to save our planet. Today we start a new chapter as a nation. When President Biden took his oath of office, he pledged to “refresh and reinvigorate our national science and technology strategy to set us on a strong course for the next 75 years so that our children and grandchildren may inhabit a healthier, safer, more just, peaceful and prosperous world”.

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Catch your breathDec. 16, 2020

Let’s face it—2020 has been a looooong year. Many of you haven’t seen a vacation day since before spring break and have been juggling work/family/health in unprecedented ways for a while now. We are thankful for your efforts, believe me. Our students are still learning and inspired. Our researchers press on and make new discoveries. And we continue to ignite the spark of scientific discovery throughout our communities. Despite the enormous challenges, it’s been a very productive year. Now it’s time to take a break. Really. You deserve it.

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