The UC Davis Humanities Institute has announced five new faculty research fellowships for the 2025-2026 academic year. All five projects among faculty within the College of Letters and Science are centered around book projects, including one work of fiction.  

On May 1, the UC Davis Foundation presented Kevin Bacon ’72 with the 2025 Charles J. Soderquist Award at a celebratory luncheon. Named in honor of the widely esteemed UC Davis alum and entrepreneur who was dedicated to advancing the university, the award recognizes Aggies who demonstrate Soderquist’s legacy of exceptional philanthropy, volunteerism and leadership within the UC Davis community.

The Critical Medical Humanities Program at Aggie Square in Sacramento offers undergraduates an immersive, cohesive learning experience looking at medical issues from multiple cultural and ethical perspectives, giving students a more well-rounded baseline to work from. Taking place across just one quarter, the program meets the requirements for the medical humanities minor. The first official cohort and one of the program's creators discuss the importance of humanities in health care.

UC Davis Ph.D. student Claris Sunjo is uncovering solutions to water pollution in Cameroon’s mangrove estuaries through award-winning research. Learn how Sunjo is leading global efforts to improve water quality and climate resilience in Sub-Saharan Africa’s threatened ecosystems.

From physics to philanthropy, UC Davis research award administrator Bill Tuck plays a pivotal role in scientific progress and STEM education access.

In "Rules of Play," the UC Davis Spring Dance Concert for 2025, choreographers and dancers will present work aimed at helping audiences reflect on which "rules" of life benefit society and which may need to be revised or upended. The program is curated by Doria E. Charlson, visiting professor of theatre and dance, and showcases new works developed and performed by undergraduate students.

Lishan AZ, Laura Starkston and Hannah Tierney have been named the 2025 Dean’s Faculty Fellows for the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis. The three-year fellowships are part of the College of Letters and Science Faculty Investment Initiative to support early faculty research excellence and development.

Emiliano Rosales picked up volleyball last spring year after his first two quarters at UC Davis were harder than he ever would have believed. After connecting with mentors, he discovered what he truly wanted his life to be. In his second year now, he mentors first-year students facing the same struggles he did.

Alum Michael Norcia discusses his role as cofounder and CEO of Pyka, a company that specializes in designing and manufacturing autonomous electric aircraft for agricultural and cargo purposes.

In its 116th year, Picnic Day is one of UC Davis’ most revered — and most fun! — traditions. From the amazing exhibits and yummy food, to the artistic and scientific demonstrations and everything in-between, here at the College of Letters and Science, we love this annual celebration.