_ABOUT THE COVER
This antique timepiece was scanned using Drexel’s Zeiss Xradia 620 Versa nanoCT microscope, which produces detailed 3D images without damaging the object. The scans were expertly edited by Bita Soltan Mohammadlou, a doctoral student in mechanical engineering at the Drexel Nanomaterials Institute.

It is a tremendous privilege to be writing to you as Drexel University’s newest president. Since stepping into this role in July, I have been struck by the clarity of Drexel’s mission: to connect knowledge and practice, research and impact, education and opportunity.

That mission resonates deeply with me. Growing up just outside of Milan, conversations about higher education never came up at the dinner table. My parents, though two of the hardest-working people I have ever known, never attended college.

So when I was offered a scholarship to pursue a PhD in economics in the United States, I was elated. It changed the trajectory of my life. The ways I have been able to engage in my research and guide our next generation of scholars since has been exceptionally fulfilling. Joining Drexel has reinvigorated that desire in me to work toward ensuring talented students get the educational opportunities they deserve, no matter their background.

Anthony J. Drexel founded this institution with a mission to make education accessible to all. Expanding on that notion, we continue our efforts at Drexel of championing an experiential education for all. This includes experiences in the classroom, in the field, in the workplace, and in labs — across the city, state, country and world. The important, innovative work highlighted throughout this publication showcases Drexel’s great contributions to society and the influence we can collectively have on the globe as an R1 research university.

Our faculty work tirelessly to move the needle on their scholarship, and, as you will read here, they frequently do so in partnership with neighborhood organizations, nonprofits and local institutions. At the same time, they teach, advise and mentor our students, who garner research experience — sometimes starting the summer before their first year on campus — sparking lifelong curiosity and purpose. You will read about the Drexel community’s work fighting flood damage that threatens homes, addressing mental health stigma, and connecting cancer research to lived experiences, among many more examples.

We present this edition not only as a précis of Drexel’s research achievements, but also as a window into our distinctive approach to scientific education. As higher education continues to evolve, our model affirms the value of connecting research, teaching and community engagement in ways that prepare students to lead and contribute meaningfully to our world.

The depth of Drexel’s capabilities is reflected in $152 million in federally sponsored research expenditures so far this year and the University’s continued classification as an R-1 institution.

As public agencies, foundations and industry partners look to our University for knowledge and expertise, Drexel will remain focused on strengthening our research infrastructure and our resolve to meet the challenges facing our community, our country and our planet.

Sincerely,

Antonio Merlo / President