Dyson College of Arts and Sciences News

Dyson Professor Melvin Williams speaks with USA Today about the rise of “vaguebooking,” explaining that while conflict is a natural part of human interaction, many people turn to indirect social media posts as a way to manage discomfort rather than engage in direct communication.

Pace University students in the Animal Advocacy Clinic met with lawmakers in Albany today to advocate for legislation aimed at restricting the use of rodenticides linked to the deaths of wildlife and companion animals.

Dyson Professor Melvin Williams appears on The Tamron Hall Show to break down the viral “aura points” trend and its popularity among Gen Z. He explains that the concept is largely satirical, using humor to “quantify” coolness and social behavior while reflecting how younger audiences navigate identity and interaction online.

Dyson Professor James Brusseau provides expert analysis on Al Jazeera’s Doha Debates, examining how artificial intelligence is reshaping politics, culture, and collective thinking, and warning that algorithmic systems may reinforce existing behaviors and narrow how people experience the world. The episode has already surpassed 800,000 views in just two days.

In Newsday, Dyson Political Science Professor Laura Tamman analyzes New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s first 100 days in office, noting that early concerns about his experience have eased as his appointments have been well received and he has demonstrated an ability to manage complex challenges and unexpected events.

In USA Today, Dyson Professor Melvin Williams discusses the rise of “vaguebooking,” explaining that indirect or cryptic social media posts often reflect discomfort with direct conflict. Williams notes that while conflict is inevitable, many people turn to passive forms of communication rather than developing stronger conflict-resolution skills.

Dyson Professor Seong Jae Min writes a piece in The Korea Times on the rise of “gukppong”—a media-driven surge of national pride tied to global attention on Korean culture—warning that reliance on external validation can distort identity and obscure more balanced self-reflection.

Dyson Political Science Professor Laura Tamman joins Spectrum News NY1’s Inside City Hall to discuss Mayor Mamdani’s first 100 days in office, offering analysis on leadership, governance, and political expectations as reflected in new polling data.

This year’s Commencement brings together leaders shaping the world across journalism, healthcare, law, and business. Meet the 2026 Honorary Degree Recipients and speakers who will inspire the Class of 2026 as they step into what’s next.