Janet M. Box-Steffensmeier, interim executive dean and vice provost; Luis Casian, dean for natural and mathematical sciences/graduate education; Peter Hahn, dean for arts and humanities/outreach and engagement; Morton O'Kelly, dean for social and behavioral sciences/research and creative inquiry; and Trevon Logan, faculty fellow for special priorities, sent the following message to Arts and Sciences faculty and staff.

The College of Arts and Sciences is the academic core of Ohio State, clearly demonstrated by the college’s research and creative inquiry. More than 900 faculty and about 20,000 undergraduate students, graduate students and postdoctoral researchers are stewarding and advancing a thriving community of ideas. Contributions to scientific knowledge and creative inquiry are occurring every day.
 
One of the true strengths of the Arts and Sciences is the extraordinary breadth of disciplines represented. While each of the college’s departments conducts researchand creative activity in its own, unique discipline, it is also deeply interconnected to many of the other 37 departments and more than 20 centers. The college currently is developing a comprehensive, college-wide network map to identify such researchconnections, as well as collaborations with the broader university community. This knowledge already has highlighted the value of strong alliances in pursuing external funds. Institutional support for our work generates a significant return on investment. We will continue to leverage our centers and maximize our existing strengths, strategically investing in activities that advance creative expression and academic inquiry.
 
By its very nature, the breadth and depth of the college support our efforts to increase diversity, equity and inclusion at all stages of the research process. By supporting underrepresented researchers and increasing research in the area of diversity, the college continues to build a multifaceted academic community of inclusive excellence. We are proud to have positioned this as a lead goal in our strategic plan.
 
The upward trajectory in research awards and expenditures represents the significant accomplishments of our faculty, staff and students. In fiscal year 2018, the college amassed 703 awards from various funding organizations totaling nearly $105 million (a new record), and external grant expenditures exceeded $92 million.
 
In 2017, 585 graduate students in the College of Arts and Sciences were funded by external research grants, which represents about 25 percent of all enrolled and funded graduate students. In 2018, eight of the nine Ohio State students receiving Fulbright grants to conduct research outside the United States were ASC students. Our undergraduate and graduate students alike also contribute innovative ideas to many clusters and innovation events across campus. Meanwhile, our faculty scholars in the Arts and Sciences continue to receive recognition for teaching, research and innovation — and are very well represented in the cadre of Distinguished University Professors.
 
These outstanding students and world-renowned faculty are working together to provide an innovative pathway to creative excellence that is the trademark of an Arts and Sciences education at Ohio State. We equip our students for the future, especially given the likelihood that today’s students will fill multiple roles through a career.
 
For further perspective, please see this exceptionally useful directory of college units and centers.
 
We will leverage our diversity and celebrate our excellence because our faculty, staff and students are generating knowledge that changes the world — with the steadfast support of more than 200,000 living alumni and friends around the globe.