Red, Blue and InfoSci True: A Homecoming Debut Full of Connection, Conversation and Career Insights
A big draw for the inaugural College of Information Science tent at Homecoming was the prize wheel, offering water bottles, sunglasses, "Stay Cool with InfoSci" fans, Bear Down beads and more.
Photo by Michael McKisson.
This year marked a milestone for the College of Information Science at the University of Arizona: our first official Homecoming events as part of the university’s time-honored celebration of Wildcat pride. Against the backdrop of “Red, Blue and True,” the university’s 2025 Homecoming theme, the college stepped forward with two vibrant events—a career panel spotlighting professional paths across the digital landscape and a lively tent on the U of A Mall that brought together students, alumni, faculty and Wildcat football fans for a morning of fun, trivia and community.
Career Paths and Possibilities
On Friday, November 7, students and guests gathered in the ENR2 Building for the InfoSci Career Panel, a signature event that offered more than just professional guidance—it offered a vision of what’s possible with an InfoSci degree. With 45 attendees and a panel of five accomplished alumni and friends of the college, the conversation ranged from cybersecurity to data science, from digital media and libraries to game design, all woven together by a shared sense of purpose: to help students navigate the evolving world of tech, information and innovation.
Participants in the College of Information Science Homecoming Career Panel, moderated by Susan Kaleita.
College of Information Science photo.
Moderator Susan Kaleita, director of strategic partnerships and external relations, opened the panel with warmth and clarity, emphasizing the college’s growing professional network and the importance of building relationships that last beyond graduation.
“We’re here to create a powerful InfoSci network,” Kaleita said, “one that you can rely on—and contribute to—throughout your careers.”
Each panelist introduced themselves, sharing both their current roles and the winding, often unexpected, paths that led them there. Among the speakers:
- Enrique Noriega Atala, a research scientist at the CAIO Institute, spoke about the changing landscape of data science and the impact of large language models
- Kathrine Henderson, a senior research strategist at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, provided insight into the evolving role of library science in policy and information equity
- Joshua Kipers, regional security operations manager at the Arizona Department of Homeland Security, highlighted the critical need for adaptable cybersecurity professionals
- Jill Sommers, marketing communications coordinator at Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona, shared her experience blending creative storytelling with digital tools to drive mission-driven outreach
- Dustin Spivey, director of training and simulation at Launchvox, offered a glimpse into the fast-moving world of game design and simulation training
From reflections on networking (“It’s not just about LinkedIn—it’s about staying curious and showing up”) to candid thoughts on the role of AI tools like ChatGPT in their daily work, the panelists modeled both vulnerability and vision. One student asked whether they should worry about becoming too reliant on AI; panelists reassured them: tools evolve, but critical thinking and human creativity remain irreplaceable.
The discussion closed with an invitation to continue conversations during informal networking after the panel, an opportunity many students eagerly took.
The College of Information Science tent at University of Arizona Homecoming 2025.
College of Information Science photo.
A Tent Full of Trivia, Prizes and Bear Down Spirit
On Saturday, November 8, the College of Information Science shared a Homecoming tent on the University of Arizona Mall, welcoming a steady stream of visitors from 9 a.m. until just before kickoff at 1:30 p.m. With the music of the U of A alumni marching band in the background and red-and-blue pride everywhere you looked, the InfoSci tent quickly became a hotspot for alums and students alike. And with a sign introducing the lively space—“Hello, my name is InfoSci”—many new friends joined in, as well.
Interim Dean Catherine Brooks welcomed visitors alongside faculty, staff and student ambassadors, who invited guests to explore:
- A photo booth complete with wacky wigs, hats, glasses and signs like “Future librarian” and “Welcome to my (virtual) reality”
- A colorful college timeline tracing the college’s rich legacy from its beginnings in library science in 1956, through the work of the College of Applied Science and Technology, and up to today’s integrated, forward-looking InfoSci programs
- A spin-to-win prize wheel, where guests earned water bottles, pens and given the sunny day and warm temps, a crowd favorite—“Stay Cool with InfoSci” fans—by answering trivia questions about U of A and college history
The tent was more than just entertainment; it was a gathering space where people reconnected, reflected and looked forward. It celebrated not only the college’s past, but the new energy that’s shaping its future.
Alumni and friends found just the right signs at the College of Information Science photo booth at U of A Homecoming 2025.
College of Information Science photo.
Red, Blue and True
Whether sharing career wisdom or spinning the wheel for prizes, the College of Information Science made its Homecoming debut one to remember. These events embodied what it means to be “Red, Blue and True”—true to our students, our alumni and the ever-expanding world of information that connects us all.
We’ll be back next year, bigger and better. Until then: Bear Down. Level Up.
