Happy New Year! As we kick off 2025, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the exciting developments in UF Geography and to look ahead to what promises to be another incredible year. With so much happening, there’s never a dull moment in our department—or in my role as chair.
First, some big news: This will be my final Chair’s Corner update, as I step down in August after nine rewarding years. It’s been an honor and a privilege to lead this extraordinary department, but I’m also thrilled to announce that a new chapter is on the horizon with the arrival of our next chair. Stay tuned—more to come on that front later this year!
New Classrooms, New Possibilities
Two new basement spaces in Turlington Hall are currently undergoing a jaw-dropping transformation (and no, I’m not talking about another coffee machine upgrade). We will have two new classrooms ready to elevate our teaching and learning experiences starting in fall 2025:
- GeoAI/GIS Lab: Packed with cutting-edge technology, this lab will support our courses in GIScience, GeoAI, and geovisualization. It’s a space where students can truly immerse themselves in geospatial geosciences.
- Interactive Omniglobe Classroom: Picture a 360-degree visualization system that brings the Earth—and so much more—to life. From meteorology to GIS, Physical Geography to Teleconnections, the OmniGlobe is going to revolutionize the way we engage with data. Big thanks to Bradley Harwood for helping develop and secure the technology grant with us here in geography, to make this possible!
Welcoming New Talent and Programs
We were delighted to welcome Dr. Di Yang to our department in Fall 2024 as an Assistant Professor. Dr. Yang specializes in GeoAI and geospatial data science, and her groundbreaking research is already making waves. She’s a fantastic addition to our team.
Speaking of new, our Meteorology degree program launched in Fall 2024, and we couldn’t be more excited. This program blends cutting-edge coursework with hands-on learning experiences, like fieldwork excursions and collaborations with the UF AMS club. Whether it’s analyzing storm systems or decoding climate patterns, our meteorology students are already off to a flying start.
Reflecting on 2024: What a Year!
2024 was nothing short of spectacular. Here are just a few highlights:
- Our faculty published 104 peer-reviewed articles (with 49 co-authored by graduate students), gave 70 talks, and submitted 48 proposals totaling over $53 million in funding requests.
- The 2nd year of our GeoGator Summer Research Program offered hands-on research experiences to 10 undergraduate students, culminating in stellar presentations at the Undergraduate Research Symposium.
- Major awards came rolling in: Dr. Joann Mossa received the AAG Distinguished Career Award and the SEDAAG Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Sadie Ryan and Dr. Olivier Walther were recognized as 2024 UF Research Foundation Professors, Dr. Gaby Hamerlinck was named UF Graduate Education Champion, and Dr. Corene Matyas and Dr. Jane Southworth both became AAG Fellows.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2025, our focus remains on preparing students for the future. From new professional development workshops for graduate students to expanded undergraduate research opportunities, we’re committed to ensuring that our students leave UF Geography ready to tackle the world.
A Fond Farewell
As I reflect on my time as chair, I’m filled with gratitude for the incredible faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends who make UF Geography so special. Together, we’ve navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and positioned the department as a leader in research, teaching, and innovation.
While stepping down is bittersweet, I’m excited to pass the torch to new leadership and see where the next chapter of UF Geography takes us. Thank you all for your support, collaboration, and friendship over the years—it has been an unforgettable journey.
With warm regards and best wishes for 2025,
Dr. Jane Southworth
Chair, UF Department of Geography