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.

Proud of our teamMay 5, 2021

Last week, many across America watched the 147th Running of the Roses, the Kentucky Derby, perhaps the ultimate single event honor in equestrian racing. Bob Baffert, the trainer of the winning horse, Medina Spirit, set a Kentucky Derby record with his seventh career win at Churchill Downs. When discussing the accomplishment during a postrace interview, in addition to acknowledging the accomplishment, Baffert also said, "I couldn't be prouder of my team."

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What’s next?April 28, 2021

Some say last week’s trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was a ‘historic milestone,’ concluding with a jury verdict of guilty on all three murder charges. As I watched the news come out, I felt a mix of sadness, relief, and justice being served. My sense about George Floyd’s tragic and horrible death is frustration at multiple levels: you don't lean with your knee on a handcuffed person's neck for more than nine minutes no matter who you are, who the person laying on the ground is, where you are, or whatever the circumstances may be; no matter what; period. I am comforted by the fact that the jury deliberated quickly and rendered an unequivocal verdict. It is a bit of hope that the future will bring us more justice, peace, and freedom.

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It’s award seasonApril 21, 2021

In the entertainment world, January and February mark the “Award Season” where the Hollywood community comes together to nominate and recognize standout performances. For academia, our award season typically occurs each spring semester in April and May when countless nominating committees review recommendations for student performance, advisor and instructional excellence, community engagement, and successful demonstration of intellect and research impact.

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Not throwin’ away my shotApril 14, 2021

About a week ago, George Mason University President Gregory Washington sent an email to all Mason faculty and staff to let us know our university would be offering an opportunity to receive a Covid-19 vaccine starting last Saturday, April 10 at the Eagle Bank Arena. Students could have the same option later this month. Within a week, a myriad of volunteers and healthcare professionals offered hundreds of appointments for our Mason nation for all interested. We are fortunate to have this opportunity as an option as there are more than 120 million Americans still waiting for their first shot.

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