In the Southern Hemisphere spring of 2019 the usually very strong winds in the stratosphere, about 186 mph (300 km/h) at a height of 18.6 miles (30 km) almost completely collapsed within a matter of days —a so-called Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) was underway. These events high in the atmosphere are known to influence the wind structure at the surface and cause anomalous weather conditions at the ground. The stratosphere affects surface weather and climate on a global scale, and ongoing global warming leads to major changes of this influence.

This past semester, Dean Butt underwent a formal review, including a self-assessment and feedback by email; surveys of faculty, staff, students, and the Council of Academic Deans; and in-person meetings with College of Mines and Earth Sciences staff, faculty members, and department chairs. It is clear from the surveys and in-person meetings that Dean Butt has excelled in many areas as Dean of the College of Mines and Earth Sciences. He was praised for his commitment to the success of others, his work on creating a culture of inclusion and support for individuals from all backgrounds, and his vision of the college as a vibrant partner in campus initiatives. Concrete accomplishments include a focus on safety, the creation of the joint Materials Science department, and strategic investments in faculty hiring and student programs, as well fundraising and advancement. Clearly, Dean Butt has elevated the college in many different ways. Based on this review, there is strong support for Dean Butt to continue as Dean. Hence, he has been recommended a reappointment for a five-year term, and he has agreed. Dean Butt has reviewed and developed goals for his next term of service, with a focus on resolving the remaining issues surrounding the joint Materials Science department and executing against a strategic plan for the college and its constituent departments. Please join us in thanking Dean Butt for all he has done and for his many efforts that have advanced both the College of Mines and Earth Sciences and the University. We look forward to continuing to work with Dean Butt and all of you to advance your unit and achieve our shared goals.

What could be better than attending the University of Utah and learning about the Greatest Snow on Earth? Covering everything from the physics of powder to the challenges of climate change, Professor Steenburgh’s new online course is a huge hit with students. As one student said, “The best class I have ever taken! Anyone who enjoys recreating in the mountains in the winter should take this class.”