From LEGO to life on other planets: A look at LQP's most popular stories of 2025
Engaging in creative play like LEGO encourages the brain to become more spontaneous, adopt a different perspective, and get out of a rut, says Jessica Andrews-Hanna, associate professor of psychology.
Groundbreaking work in fusion energy, an astronomical feat made possible by the Rubin Observatory mirrors, and a look at the cognitive benefits of building with LEGO were among this year's stories that inspired and informed. In 2025, Lo Que Pasa highlighted the people, research and initiatives that make the University of Arizona a hub of innovation and creativity.
Here's a look at the top stories that drew the most interest from readers across campus.
Building a flexible and creative mindset: U of A experts discuss LEGO's impact on adults
Jan. 27, 2025
We all know building with LEGO is fun and relaxing, but it also boosts creative thinking and strengthens problem-solving skills. Psychology and business experts at the University of Arizona explain why LEGO bricks are popping up more often in academic settings.
Wildcat for Life: Savannah Guthrie returns to campus for 'Today' show segment
Oct. 20, 2025
University of Arizona alumna Savannah Guthrie returned to campus Oct. 17 to film a segment for the "Today" show that aired Nov. 5. The 1993 alum reconnected with campus traditions, met students and faculty, and reflected on how the university shaped her career.
Savannah Guthrie films her return-to-Tucson special alongside members of the Pi Beta Phi Sorority.
Chris Richards/University Communications
You're special – and so is everyone on Earth. A specific set of chemical conditions allowed for the emergence of life on Earth. In this article from The Conversation, Chris Impey, University Distinguished Professor of astronomy, examines whether life can emerge from other, maybe even cooler, chemistries.
Being honest about using AI at work makes people trust you less, research finds
May 29, 2025
They say honesty is the best policy. But when it comes to using AI on the job, research suggests that can backfire. In an article published on The Conversation, Eller College of Management researchers Oliver Schilke and Martin Reimann explain why.
Breaking down the budget: A Q&A with John Arnold
April 30, 2025
The University of Arizona offers a look at how it funds its operations and the steps it took to close a $65.1 million deficit. CFO John Arnold explains how the university manages revenues, expenditures and financial challenges.
A workplace like no other: Making the world's largest telescope mirrors
July 7, 2025
Technicians at the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab load chunks of glass onto the honeycomb mold during fabrication of Rubin Observatory’s combined primary/tertiary mirror. The mirror measures nearly 28 feet (8.4 meters) across.
Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab
Those jaw-dropping images from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory didn't happen by accident. They're the result of years of work by University of Arizona experts at the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab, one of the few places in the world capable of making telescope mirrors at such a large scale.
The U of A is well represented on this year's '40 under 40' list
June 23, 2025
Four employees and one student made the 2025 list, which honors young professionals for leadership, service and community advancement. Representing units from creative arts to integrative medicine and university initiatives, the recognition highlights the employees' personal commitment and the impact of the university's work in the region.
Powering the Future: Five things you should know about fusion energy at the University of Arizona
July 9, 2025
Before each fusion experiment at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, a positioner precisely centers the target inside the target chamber and serves as a reference to align the laser beams.
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
From how fusion energy works to how the university is poised to lead the industry, the U of A is tapping into the power of the stars to deliver clean energy on Earth. Supported through ABOR strategic research funding, the U of A is looking to advance clean-energy science, grow the state's workforce and contribute solutions to global energy challenges.
Understanding 'all funds': Go behind the numbers with the university's CFO
Feb. 28, 2025
Each year, the university conducts its "all funds" budgeting process, a comprehensive, collaborative review of financial needs across every college and unit. The process brings together senior administrators and college and division leaders to plan for the year ahead with a focus on student success and strategic investments.
Understanding the science behind your coffee fix
April 10, 2025
A cup of coffee keeps you going through your morning meetings – but what does it do to your brain? In this Q&A, psychology professor Lee Ryan explains the relationship between circadian rhythm and the time of day at which you drink coffee.
Other reader favorites are below.
- Why you seriously need to stop trying to be funny at work – Oct. 7, 2025
- Distinguished Faculty Awards honor excellence in teaching, research, service – May 29, 2025
- Show your colors: Wildcat Fridays are back – Aug. 14, 2025