A Message from the Dean: Redefining What it Means to Be a Titan of the Arts

This is an extraordinary time to be a student; frankly, it is an extraordinary time for us all. The head-spinning changes to our lives brought on by COVID-19 are staggering. Yet in the face of these challenges, I have seen the true meaning of Cal State Fullerton’s motto “Titans Reach Higher” reveal itself daily in the resolve of our College of the Arts students. I am amazed at how fast our faculty transitioned to virtual learning platforms, admittedly with some bumps and kinks along the way; nevertheless, learning continues as does our commitment to our students’ academic success, proving we are all Titans of the Arts.

As the spring semester comes to a close, now is the time for us to look ahead as the College of the Arts stands ready to meet any challenges the Fall 2020 semester may bring. Every one of our students is a vital member of the Titan family and we are steadfastly committed to their well-being in addition to providing quality instruction. This fall, students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of academic activities, including the unique co-curricular experiences they have come to expect from the College of the Arts. Our faculty are devising creative and dynamic ways to engage learning on all platforms by incorporating new technologies into their curriculum while also being mindful of the potential need for continued social distancing practices in accordance with health and safety guidelines set by Governor Gavin Newsom and CSUF President Fram Virjee.

I’ve said it over and over again, “If ‘Titans Reach Higher,’ College of the Arts students reach not only higher but forward.” This statement has perhaps never been truer than it is at this moment and we pledge our unwavering commitment to you and your educational goals during this period of uncertainty. As Titans of the Arts, we know the importance of flexibility, creative thinking, entrepreneurialism and, above all, resiliency. Although it may seem as if the world as you know it has shut down, this is merely a temporary pause. Now is not the time to press pause on your education, now is the time to rediscover what it means to be a Titan of the Arts by continuing to reach forward towards your future. You are the artists, performers, educators, and leaders who will shape the arts of tomorrow in distinctive and powerful ways, just as the arts have been transformed by adversity time and time again throughout history. Be a part of the transformation happening at Cal State Fullerton and join us as this fall for a semester of discovery and learning.

Until we see each other again, stay safe, stay strong, and keep moving forward. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of you.

Sincerely,

Dale A. Merrill
Dean, College of the Arts