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UCSC in the News

Sociology professor Paul Lubeck was interviewed on the PBS Newshour about the Christmas Day bombings in Nigeria and the underlying economic conditions that are spawning Boko Haram, an incipient insurgency there.

Michael McCawley appointed director of admissions at UC Santa Cruz

Astronomers' pristine gas discovery among top scientific breakthroughs of 2011

Lists from Science and Physics World of the top scientific breakthroughs of the year include the discovery of primordial gas clouds by UCSC astronomers.

Lick Observatory open to public December 26 through January 1

Lick Observatory will be closed to the public December 24 and 25, but visiting hours will be extended for the rest of the holiday period.

UCSC in the News

Astrophysicist Stan Woosley was quoted in a Nature story about new supernova discoveries. Astronomer Greg Laughlin was quoted in a separate Nature story about new planet discoveries from the Kepler mission.

UC Santa Cruz astronomer Jerry Nelson to receive 2012 Franklin Medal

The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia has announced that Jerry Nelson, professor of astronomy and astrophysics, will receive the 2012 Benjamin Franklin Medal in Electrical Engineering.

UCSC community again embracing holiday opportunities to give

The UCSC community once again pooled its resources to support a number of holiday giving drives aimed at providing food, gifts, and basic necessities to needy children and families in Santa Cruz County.

Study of research impact ranks UCSC 21st in the world

UC Santa Cruz ranks 21st in the world in a five-year measure of the top 500 universities based on the impact of its researchers' scholarly publications.

Computer scientist Martín Abadi elected 2011 AAAS Fellow

Computer security expert Martín Abadi has been named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

UCSC in the News

The Los Angeles Times reported that Literature professor Karen Tei Yamashita received an United States Artists (USA) unrestricted fellowship.

Still time to make a year-end gift to UC Santa Cruz

Music professor offers first in-depth look at jazz icon Carla Bley

A new book by UC Santa Cruz music professor Amy Beal marks the first comprehensive look at the music and influence of Carla Bley—an innovative American composer and performer who has surprisingly been overlooked in the field of jazz studies.

A holiday message from President Yudof

UCSC alumnus named to UC Board of Regents

Chancellor Blumenthal announces the appointment of UCSC graduate Kenneth Feingold to the UC Board of Regents.

Environmental Studies faculty stands up for experiential education

Faculty in UCSC's Environmental Studies program have teamed up to launch a fundraiser to protect the future of its experiential education courses.

UC staff advisors visit UCSC for meetings

Penny Herbert and Kevin Smith, UC staff advisors to the Board of Regents, spent two days at UC Santa Cruz this week for meetings with Chancellor Blumenthal and campus and university-wide groups.

Community Crime Bulletin

A series of 10 backpack thefts from dining halls and the East Field House has occurred over the past two weeks.

Parking permit renewals

Please read this so that you can have your parking permit current for 2012.

UCSC Arts and Humanities faculty win USA fellowships

Two UCSC faculty are among the 50 writers, dancers, musicians, filmmakers and other artists nationwide who have been awarded $50,000 USA fellowships grants.

Education researchers win $2 million grant to prepare teachers who help English learners

Education researchers at UC Santa Cruz have received nearly $2 million over five years from the U.S. Department of Education to develop methods of training prospective elementary school teachers how to best teach English to English learners while also teaching grade-level content.

Free computers help community college students improve skills

In the first-ever field experiment involving the provision of free computers to students for home use, UC Santa Cruz economics professor Rob Fairlie found that when students had access to a computer at home their grades went up along with -- not surprisingly -- their computer skills.

UCSC in the News

News outlets and wire services around the country wrote about Congress naming a meeting room for alumnus Gabe Zimmerman, who was killed in the shooting that wounded Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. The Washington Post, Politico, the Santa Cruz Sentinel and Santa Cruz Patch wrote about it along with the Tucson Citizen, The Hill, and others.

Call for nominations for the 2012 Tony Hill Memorial Award

The campus is inviting nominations for the 2012 Tony Hill Memorial Award.

Astrophysicist Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz named to Silicon Valley's '40 Under 40'

Astrophysicist Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz is among 40 "rising stars" in Silicon Valley recognized by the Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal.

Bone marrow donor registration drive set for Friday, January 20

As part of its community service efforts this quarter, Crown College, College Nine, and College Ten are hosting a bone marrow registry program on Friday, January 20, 2012 from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

House names Capitol meeting room in honor of Gabe Zimmerman

The U.S. House of Representatives voted unanimously to name a room in the Capitol for UC Santa Cruz alumnus Gabe Zimmerman (Stevenson, '02, sociology), the Congressional community outreach director who was killed in the January shooting rampage in Tucson.

Soc Doc alumna reports from Egypt’s Tahrir Square

UCSC alumna Bridgette Auger was following women activists in Egypt’s Tahrir Square last week when they came under fire during a clash between protesters and police. Auger—who received her Master's degree in Social Documentation from UCSC earlier this year—shot video footage of the incident, which can be seen on the Daily Beast web site.

Ocean scientist Tom Guilderson wins E. O. Lawrence Award

The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded the 2011 E. O. Lawrence Award in Biological and Environmental Sciences to ocean scientist Tom Guilderson.

Campus Holiday Gathering

Chancellor Blumenthal and his wife, Kelly Weisberg, invite all faculty and staff to a Holiday Gathering & Campus Celebration on Thursday, December 8th.

Hahn Student Services reopens

I am pleased to inform you that we anticipate reopening Hahn Student Services on Wednesday morning. Shortly before noon today, protesters voluntarily vacated the building. As of this writing, staff are returning to Hahn and preparing to resume normal operations tomorrow.

SSC and Theater Arts team up for holiday extravaganza

After a brief hiatus, the popular year-end holiday co-production by Shakespeare Santa Cruz and the Theater Arts Department returns this year for "A Year with Frog and Toad"—running through December 11 at UCSC’s Mainstage Theater.

Submarine springs offer preview of ocean acidification effects on coral reefs

Observations at submarine springs found along the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula are giving scientists a preview of the possible fate of coral reef ecosystems in response to ocean acidification.

Second Harvest Food Bank & UCSC Holiday Food Drive

The UC Santa Cruz Academic Senate and Staff Advisory Board invite you to join us again this year in donating cash and non-perishable food to the Second Harvest Food Bank during the annual holiday food drive. .

Writing instructor's essay included in natural history anthology

An essay by Sarah Juniper Rabkin, a lecturer and researcher in the UC Santa Cruz Environmental Studies Department is included in "The Way of Natural History" (Trinity University Press, 2011), an anthology in which more than 20 writers argue that attention to nature is a key pathway to nurturing our humanity.

Hahn Student Services protest

UCSC in the News

History professor Dana Frank contributed an article to The Nation revealing how new Wikileaks cables show that US-funded troops in Honduras have been collaborating with a known drug trafficker in his private army's war against campesinos in that country.

UCSC gets top spot in nationwide "vegan schools" contest

UC Santa Cruz has come in first place in a heated, five-week contest to determine the "#1 vegan friendly college in the nation."

UCSC grad is an editor of the 'Occupied Wall Street Journal'

Despite the bust-up of Occupy encampments nationwide, a UC Santa Cruz graduate who helps edit the newspaper for the popular movement credits media outreach with spreading the message of economic fairness beyond the downtown parks where the movement began.

Campus leadership supports peaceful demonstations

Chancellor George Blumenthal and CP/EVC Alison Galloway comment on police actions at UC Davis and Berkeley and express support for the right to peacefully demonstrate on UC campuses.

Chocolate Festival volunteers needed

Volunteers needed for the annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival on Sunday, January 22, 2012 from 1 - 4 p.m.

Community Crime Bulletin

UCSC Police department community crime alert bulletin.

Ulcer-causing bacteria tamed by defect in cell-targeting ability

Without the ability to swim to their targets in the stomach, ulcer-causing bacteria do not cause the inflammation of the stomach lining that leads to ulcers and stomach cancer.

Our University: new family care benefit, signing the patent amendment, and more news for UC faculty and staff

Open Enrollment 2012 ends Tuesday, November 22 at 5 p.m.

If you haven’t already done so, you have until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, November 22 to make UC health and welfare benefit plan changes for 2012.

Campus experiencing significant email outage

Pulitzer Prize winning poet to read at 2nd Morton Marcus event, Nov. 20

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Kay Ryan—the U.S. Poet Laureate from 2008-2010, who just a few weeks ago received a MacArthur (“genius”) Fellowship award--will be the featured guest at the 2nd annual Morton Marus Memorial Poetry Reading, Sunday, November 20.

Physicist Michael Dine receives Outstanding Faculty Award

Michael Dine, distinguished professor and chair of physics, has received the 2010-11 Outstanding Faculty Award from the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences.

UCSC leads $4 million NOAA project to monitor harmful algal blooms

Scientists are launching a major effort to understand the conditions leading to blooms of toxic algae along the California coast.

Amendment to Patent Acknowledgement or Agreement

Message regarding an impending project to amend the Patent Acknowledgment or Agreement that all faculty, staff, and others using University resources or facilities are required to sign when they come to the University of California.

UCSC fundraisers honored at Silicon Valley Philanthropy Day

Two UCSC fundraising teams will be recognized by the Silicon Valley Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

UCSC in the News

The discovery of pristine gas clouds from the Big Bang by astronomers Xavier Prochaska and Michele Fumagalli received widespread coverage, including stories in the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, San Jose Mercury News, Scientific American, Astronomy, ScienceNow, Space.com, Universe Today, Astronomy Now, Discovery News, and many other media outlets.

Astronomers find clouds of primordial gas from the early universe

For the first time, astronomers have found pristine clouds of the primordial gas that formed in the first few minutes after the Big Bang.

Taking it to the next level: Women’s soccer team qualifies for regional playoffs

The hard-working UCSC women’s soccer team is bound for Southern California this weekend to compete in the regional playoffs for the first time in two years.

UCSC makes final round of the "Nation's Most Vegan-Friendly Colleges" contest

UCSC is facing off against the University of Florida in a social-network-based contest that will determine the “#1 vegan friendly college in the nation.”

Transportation advisory: November 9

This web site is provided to help keep the UCSC community and our neighbors aware of any traffic disruptions on or near campus on Wednesday, November 9. Due to an announced "Day of Action," campus officials are encouraging you to stay informed that day and consider adding commute time to your schedule.

Ancient lunar dynamo may explain magnetized moon rocks

A novel mechanism that could have generated a magnetic field on the moon early in its history may explain the presence of magnetized rocks on the lunar surface.

UCSC Student Insurance Office

To opt out of the UC Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP) for winter quarter 2012 and the remainder of the academic year 2011-2012, students must complete the on-line insurance waiver.

Slug men's water polo hopes to make big splash at national championships

This will be a momentous weekend for the UC Santa Cruz men's water polo team. The Banana Slugs are set to make history as they head to Atlanta as the first-ever team from a Division III school to compete in the National Collegiate Club Championship, a Division I tournament.

Preview of Grateful Dead Archive features legendary poster artist Stanley Mouse

"Despite the heavy rain Deadheads and academics alike flooded McHenry Library at UC Santa Cruz on Saturday to get their first glimpse of the Grateful Dead Archive..."

UCSC in the News

Seismologist Emily Brodsky was quoted in a Nature article about a project to drill into the fault zone of the Tohoku earthquake that caused the devastating tsunami in Japan earlier this year.

Traveling home for the Holidays

Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) invites you to consider using UCSC Zimride to share the ride with others going out of town or to the airport.

United Way kicks off workplace fundraising campaign at UCSC

The economic slump has increased the urgency of the United Way's latest fundraiser. The UCSC community is stepping up to help with a workplace campaign that runs through Nov. 11.

UCSC wins $2.6 million grant for organic farming research

UC Santa Cruz will continue and expand its leading role in sustainable agriculture research with a $2.6 million federal grant to strengthen collaboration with Central Coast farmers to promote organic production in the region.

Traffic advisory issued for Wednesday, November 9

In a message to the campus community, TAPS and the UCSC Police provide an advisory, alerting members of the UCSC community to the possibility of traffic disruptions on or near campus on Wednesday, November 9.

UCSC art historian contributes to Touré’s new book on “post-blackness”

History of Art and Visual Culture assistant professor Derek Conrad Murray adds to candid conversation about race in the age of Obama

Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Update

Over the summer, the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) transitioned the look of its website to the campus template, so check us out at: http://diversity.ucsc.edu.

Video chat with Chancellor Blumenthal

Speaking from the newly remodeled McHenry Library, Chancellor Blumenthal welcomes new and returning students, notes the increasing diversity of the student body, and highlights recent campus accomplishments.

Fermi telescope adds surprising new pulsars to growing collection

Scientists using NASA's Fermi telescope have discovered nine new gamma-ray pulsars and a surprisingly powerful millisecond pulsar.

Tom Pettigrew wins social psychology career award

Thomas F. Pettigrew, research professor of social psychology at UC Santa Cruz, is one of two recipients of a new Career Achievement Award from the Society for Personality and Social Psychology (SPSP).

Fall video message from Chancellor Blumenthal

Chancellor Blumenthal welcomes new and returning students, notes the increasing diversity of the student body, and highlights recent campus accomplishments.

UCSC Arboretum holds Dried Flower and Succulent Wreath Sale Nov. 12 and 13

Wonderful holiday decorations and gifts will be available from the UCSC Arboretum at the Dried Flower and Succulent Wreath Sale on November 12 and 13.

UCSC's Museum of Natural History holds open house and fundraiser

Two master naturalists will share their wisdom with the community when the UC Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History Collections (MNHC) holds its third annual open house and fundraiser Friday, Nov. 18 and Saturday, Nov. 19 at the Science and Engineering Library periodicals room on the UCSC campus.

Affirming UCSC's Principles of Community

Chancellor Blumenthal encourages all students, faculty, and staff to become familiar with the UCSC Principles of Community.

UCSC in the News

The Chronicle of Higher Education focused on the Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture and the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems (CASFS) in a report on the growing field, noting it was the first of its kind in the nation.

UC Santa Cruz United Way Campaign: November 1–11

In the next few weeks, we have an opportunity to reach out to those in need of our help and make a difference in their lives through an annual gift to the United Way.

UCSC presents inaugural Sikh and Punjabi Studies conference Nov. 10-12

On November 10-12, leading scholars from the United States, Canada, and England will come together for the inaugural conference in Sikh and Punjabi Studies at UC Santa Cruz.

UCSC cholera biofilm team wins Deloitte QB3 Award for Innovation

A team of UC Santa Cruz researchers working to find new drugs to fight cholera has won a $10,000 Award for Innovation

Open Enrollment 2012

The annual Open Enrollment period begins today (Monday, October 31) and ends at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, November 22.

Leadership Academy Application Deadline November 1, 2011

The Academy provides a unique opportunity for cross-campus networking and for dialogue with the Chancellor, Executive Vice Chancellor, and other campus leaders.

Excess nutrients threaten Elkhorn Slough ecosystem

A new study documents the effects of high nutrient levels in Elkhorn Slough, especially where water control structures limit tidal exchange.

Panelists to discuss renewable energy from the ocean in annual Norris Lecture Nov. 10

Panelists will explore the current prospects of deriving renewable energy from the ocean in the annual Ken Norris Memorial Lecture at the Seymour Center on Thursday, November 10.

Summer 2012 Orientation Dates

Please mark your calendars for the Summer 2012 Orientation dates for incoming frosh and transfer students.

UCTV Seminars now online and accepting submissions from researchers

University of California Television (UCTV) has launched a web portal that offers UC researchers a simple and cost-effective place to find and share peer-to-peer scholarly presentations in any academic discipline via video and visual media.

Study finds early growth trajectories have long-term effects on fitness

Researchers describe how food supply and environmental conditions affect the growth rates of organisms, which in turn influence future survival and reproduction.

"Terror Fresca" Halloween celebration at University Town Center

UCSC in the News

Biologist Marm Kilpatrick's research on West Nile virus was covered by the U.S. News & World Report, UPI, Health Day, Science Daily, RedOrbit, Infection Control Today, Doctors Lounge, Santa Cruz Sentinel, and News-Medical.net.

'Party small' campaign continuing this fall

UC Santa Cruz is once again this fall implementing its "Party Small—Gnome" campaign, which aims to decrease risk from alcohol use and promote safe drinking practices on and off campus.

Baskin School of Engineering promotes increased participation of women in computing

During the past two years, the number of women majoring in computer science at UC Santa Cruz has increased by 40 percent.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month: Use strong passwords

Online Web Chat with Human Resources VP Dwaine Duckett

This is just a quick reminder that you are invited to join Dwaine Duckett, UC’s vice president for Human Resources, today from 1 - 2 p.m. in an online web chat about the health care rates for 2012, UCRP contributions, revised staff layoff policy and UC’s new family-friendly programs.

Campus Elections Orientations

Please mark your calendars for the upcoming orientations for those interested in authoring a student fee referendum, opinion poll, or SUA Constitutional Amendment on the 2012 Campus Elections ballot.

SAB Chancellor staff open forum

An invitation to all staff to join the Chancellor for an open staff forum.

Halloween Weekend, October 29-31

Information for students regarding the Halloween weekend.

Researchers work with high school teachers on new state writing standards

Researchers at UC Santa Cruz, in collaboration with local educational agencies, have won a $250,000 grant to help high school English teachers in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District prepare for new state standards in reading and writing.

UCSC honors Marti Noxon at Hollywood Film/TV alumni event

Award-winning writer and producer Marti Noxon (Mad Men, Grey’s Anatomy, Glee) was presented with the first UCSC Film & Digital Media Prestigious Alumni Award at a ceremony held last week at the Soho House in West Hollywood.

West Nile virus transmission linked to land use patterns, 'super-spreaders'

In most places, only a few key species of bird "hosts" and mosquito "vectors" are important in transmission of West Nile virus.

UCSC sponsors SACNAS national conference in San Jose, October 27-30

UCSC is supporting the efforts of the Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science.

What I'm Hearing From Students This Quarter

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway responds to three primary concerns she's hearing from students this quarter.

UCSC in the News

Astronomer Greg Laughlin was quoted in an Atlantic magazine story about the Kepler mission and the search for Earth-like planets, and exoplanet research by Laughlin and graduate student Kevin Shlaufman was covered in Science News, Astrobiology, and Space Daily.

Our University – 2012 medical plan rates, proposed pension contributions and more news for UC faculty and staff

Read the latest issue of Our University.

Social Sciences honors teachers, staff members, students

Three teachers in the social sciences were honored for teaching and research as the division held its annual staff and faculty fall breakfast Oct. 12.

UCSC’s digital artists take over museum for one night only-Oct. 21

This Friday, October 21, student and alumni artists from UCSC’s Digital Arts & New Media (DANM) program will transform Santa Cruz’s Museum of Art & History into a dynamic hub of new interactive digital art and technology.

Seasonal Flu Shot Clinics on Campus - Staff

Seasonal Flu shots will once again be offered to staff and faculty at the Student Health Center located across from the University Center and Colleges 9 & 10 on McLaughlin Drive.

Flu Shot Clinics on Campus - Students

Seasonal Flu shots will once again be offered to students at the Student Health Center located across from the University Center and Colleges 9 & 10 on McLaughlin Drive.

Beyond calories and consumption, new book critiques obesity orthodoxies

Julie Guthman, associate professor of community studies, challenges many widely held assumptions about the “obesity epidemic” in her new book, "Weighing In: Obesity, Food Justice, and the Limits of Capitalism."

Student Volunteer Center

If you’re interested in getting involved in the community, through volunteering or internships, drop by the Student Volunteer Center.

Galaxy mergers not the trigger for most black hole feeding frenzies

A survey of distant galaxies shows that galaxy mergers are not responsible for most active galactic nuclei.

UCSC team makes final round of QB3 Award for Innovation contest

A UCSC research team is among five finalists competing for online votes to win a $10,000 innovation prize.

Elliot Aronson to deliver fall Emeriti Lecture Oct. 27

Elliot Aronson, emeritus professor of psychology, will deliver the fall 2011 Emeriti Lecture, "The Psychology of Self-Persuasion: Why We Justify Foolish Beliefs, Bad Decisions, and Hurtful Acts," at UC Santa Cruz on Thursday, October 27.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month: Google Apps is Coming Nov. 2011

Physicist Bill Atwood awarded Panofsky Prize in Experimental Particle Physics

The American Physical Society has awarded the 2012 Panofsky Prize in Experimental Particle Physics to physicist William Atwood.

Human Resources VP to hold systemwide web chat Oct. 24

Human Resources VP Dwaine Duckett will hold a systemwide web chat on October 24.

UCSC in the News

TIME magazine turned to psychology professor Craig Haney for observations about support from families of people released from prison in connection with the Amanda Knox case.

2011 Founders Celebration: Honoring dedication, scholarship and excellence

The 2011 Founders Celebration will spotlight UCSC’s cutting-edge achievements while celebrating nearly a half-century of proud traditions.

Wilder ranch control burns

The California Department of Parks and Recreation is conducting a series of burns totaling at Wilder Ranch State Park as conditions allow.

Google chief economist kicks off finance lecture series at UC Santa Cruz

Hal Varian, chief economist at Google and a UC Berkeley emeritus professor, is the inaugural speaker of a quarterly lecture series being launched by a new financial and economic risk-analysis initiative at UC Santa Cruz.

SCMTD Transit Service Adjustments

The SCMTD ("Metro") public transit system has implemented several service adjustments to reduce "pass-bys" on routes serving UCSC via Laurel, Mission and Bay Streets.

Community water projects in rural Kenya help raise family income

Rural family incomes tend to rise when Kenyan women don't have to spend several hours a day lugging water to their villages, UC Santa Cruz sociology professor Ben Crow writes in a new paper in the journal World Development.

Educational Partnership Center receives $14 million in federal outreach grants

UC Santa Cruz's Educational Partnership Center has been awarded two GEAR UP federal grants to serve students in Pajaro Valley and South Monterey County.

Crab pulsar beams most energetic gamma rays ever detected from a pulsar

Astrophysicists have detected pulsed gamma-ray emission from the Crab pulsar at energies far beyond what current theoretical models of pulsars can explain.

Winter Campus Curtailment 2011-2012

Our 2011-2012 Winter Campus Curtailment is scheduled for the time period of December 23, 2011 through January 2, 2012.

Geologist Casey Moore honored by Geological Society of Japan

The Geological Society of Japan has awarded its International Prize to UCSC geologist Casey Moore.

UCSC steps up 'zero waste' projects

UCSC staff and students started off the school year by recycling a whopping 38,840 pounds of cardboard within the first two weeks of the fall quarter. The campus aims for zero waste by 2020.

Sociologist Lisa Jean Moore to present annual Baskin Ethics Lecture, Oct. 19

Lisa Jean Moore, professor of sociology and gender Studies at Purchase College, State University of New York, will deliver the second annual Peggy Downes Baskin Ethics Lecture on Wednesday, October 19.

UCSC grads turn senior project into game design company

A new iPad game now available from Apple's App Store showcases the professional quality of the work done by UCSC students in the computer game design program.

UCSC in the News

Paleoceanographer James Zachos and paleontologist Paul Koch are featured in the October issue of National Geographic magazine in an article about an ancient episode of global warming that holds lessons for understanding climate change today.

Founders Dinner on October 21 to honor achievement, service, and scholarship

UC Santa Cruz will host its fifth annual Founders Celebration dinner at the Cocoanut Grove in Santa Cruz on Friday, October 21.

In Memoriam — Camila Lee

We are writing to share with you the very sad news that College Eight sophomore Camila Lee has passed away.

Alumnus Thad Nodine to read from debut novel ‘Touch and Go’

UCSC alumnus Thad Nodine will present a reading of his debut novel, Touch and Go—a multicultural American road trip, through the eyes of a young blind man—on Wednesday, October 19, at 5 p.m. at Kresge College.

UARC scientists win best paper award

UARC scientists Matthew Daigle and Sriram Narasimhan won the Best Theoretical Paper award at the 2011 conference of the Prognostics and Health Management Society.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month: six things you can do

Water is a precious resource

Take a moment to think about how you use water and what ways you can use less of this precious resource - then take a few simple actions to reduce what you use.

Five UCSC students win Fulbright scholarships

Five UC Santa Cruz students in four disciplines are winners of Fulbright scholarships for a year of research and study abroad. They will travel to China, Germany, Italy, and Mexico for the 2011-2012 academic year.

Psychology professor wins early career award

Phillip Hammack, an assistant professor of psychology at UC Santa Cruz, has been awarded the Louise Kidder Early Career Award from the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues (SPSSI), a division of the American Psychological Association.

Campus Security Statistics and Fire Safety Report

The UCSC 2010 Campus Security and Fire Safety Report is now available for review.

Two Truths and a Lie

“Two truths and a lie is a creative writing exercise in which students write about three events in their life, two true, one a lie, and the class tries to figure out which is the lie,” says UCSC associate literature professor Micah Perks.

Scientists release most accurate simulation of the universe to date

The Bolshoi supercomputer simulation, the most accurate and detailed large cosmological simulation run to date, gives physicists and astronomers a powerful new tool.

'Party small' campaign gets under way

UC Santa Cruz is once again this fall implementing its "Party Small—Gnome" campaign, which aims to decrease risk from alcohol use and promote safe drinking practices on and off campus.

Health Center project honored by Business Journal

UC Santa Cruz received a top prize at the Silcon Valley/San Jose Business Journal's annual Structures Awards ceremony, held last week at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose. The campus finished first in the category of "Green Project — Public" for its sustainable design and construction efforts on the Cowell Student Health Center project.

Baskin School of Engineering showcases research advances on Thursday, October 20

Advances in three exciting areas of technological innovation--computer games, genomics, and network science--will be presented by faculty in the Baskin School of Engineering at the school's annual Research Review Day.

On-line W-2's At Your Service

UC employees can securely access and download W-2 forms online from the UC At Your Service On-line (AYSO) employee self-service web site.

Reported Cases of Gastroenteritis ("stomach flu") Virus and Precautions - Staff and Faculty

Your attention to good hygiene is critical in order to help maintain the health of our campus community.

Video shows tool use by a fish

The first video of tool use by a fish has been published in the journal Coral Reefs by biologist Giacomo Bernardi.

On-Campus Photography Contest

The Chancellor's Office is holding a photography contest to choose a photograph of the UC Santa Cruz campus, taken by a member of the UCSC community, to use as the front cover of its season's greeting card.

Arboretum's fall plant sale on Oct. 8 features beautiful, unusual plants

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum will hold its annual Fall Plant Sale on Saturday, October 8, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Eucalyptus Grove on High Street.

UCSC in the News

TEST ONLY - Cruzalert Emergency Notification - TEST ONLY

This is a test of the UCSC CruzAlert emergency notification system

During an actual emergency, this system will be used to provide immediate notification to students, faculty and staff on the nature of the emergency, what action to take and where to go for more information.

Reported Cases of Gastroenteritis ("stomach flu") Virus and Precautions

Health Center Staff and campus Environmental Health and Safety officials are working with the County Health Department to identify any possible common cause for several cases of gastroenteritis ("stomach flu") reported on campus during this past week. The cause is not completely known at this time. The University has instituted standard protocols to minimize the risk to community members.

CruzAlert Test Tomorrow

There is a CruzAlert test scheduled for 9/27/11.

Experts discuss the future of cancer diagnosis and treatment on Oct. 21

Nobel laureate J. Michael Bishop, Genentech chairman Art Levinson, and UCSC's David Haussler discuss the dawn of personalized medicine in UCSC Foundation Forum.

Welcome to Fall Quarter

Chancellor Blumenthal shares campus news and invites students, faculty, and staff to celebrate the 25th anniversary of everyone's favorite college mascot.

New book sheds light on survival of Jewish culture

This October, UCSC professor of literature and history Nathaniel Deutsch will offer the first complete translation of a little known ethnographic questionnaire--and the story of an ambitious attempt to document a culture during an extraordinarily volatile time in world history.

LALS post-doc's research proposal wins top award from UC-Mexico funder

Tania Cruz Salazar's research on immigration by indigenous youth recently won the UC MEXUS Monarch Award for the most outstanding proposal submitted for funding this year.

Make sure the CruzAlert system has your contact information

Don't forget to update CruzAlert with your current information. A system test will be conducted on September 27.

Fall recreation, intramural sports guide now available online

“Radical Reels” high adventure film night comes to UCSC

Frans Lanting’s multimedia show to highlight UCSC evening at Flint Center

For more than two decades, acclaimed nature photographer Frans Lanting has documented wildlife from the Amazon to Antarctica, in an effort to promote understanding about the Earth and its natural history. On October 15, he will join with the campus for a remarkable evening of art, science and life, at the Flint Center in Cupertino.

Computer scientist Luca de Alfaro recognized for influential paper

A paper on software engineering published ten years ago by UCSC computer scientist Luca de Alfaro has received the ACM SIGSOFT Impact Paper Award, which recognizes papers for their influence in the years since their publication.

Our University: UC's economic impact, what drives health care costs, and other news

Read the latest issue of Our University.

Transit Service Changes

Please note changes to transit service at UCSC and throughout the surrounding Santa Cruz community.

UCSC in the News

New planet discoveries by the Kepler mission received widespread news coverage, with many stories quoting UCSC astronomers Greg Laughlin, Daniel Fabrycky, or Jonathan Fortney, including coverage in the Washington Post, CNN.com, Space Daily, Science 2.0, Asian News International, International Business Times, PC magazine, and Digital Journal.

Fall Quarter update

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway welcomes students to campus and shares news of initiatives under way this year as part of a campuswide focus on the needs of students.

"Science Notes 2011" now available online

Sneaky salmon-snatching sea lions, African island tree frogs, and octopus-shaped sand dollars--these stories and more appear in Science Notes 2011, the annual magazine published by UCSC's Science Communication Program.

Astronomers confirm first planet orbiting two stars

A world with multiple suns is a common trope in science fiction, and scientific reality has now caught up, with a report from NASA's Kepler mission of a planet orbiting two stars.

Small distant galaxies host supermassive black holes

Using the Hubble Space Telescope to probe the distant universe, astronomers have found supermassive black holes growing in surprisingly small galaxies, suggesting that central black holes formed at an early stage in galaxy evolution.

Biologist Harry Noller honored by Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has awarded the 2012 Gregori Aminoff Prize in Crystallography to UCSC molecular biologist Harry Noller and two of his collaborators.

Student Health Center Closure on September 15, 2011

The Student Health Center, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and SHOP will be closed all day on September 15 for patient/client care.

Updates to College Leadership for 2011-12

Two updates to announce regarding college leadership for the 2011-12 academic year.

Parking restrictions for annual campus Move-In

Move-in has impacts on campus parking and traffic and we ask for your patience and flexibility. It is important to note the following restrictions and alternative parking options.

The New McHenry: It’s Not Your Parents’ Library

I’m sitting in a “Group Study” room of the newly renovated McHenry Library at UC Santa Cruz and I’ve got to admit—I’m pretty relaxed.

Welcoming new students for fall 2011

UC Santa Cruz students are scheduled to begin moving into university housing on Wednesday, September 14, in anticipation of the 2011-12 school year. The first day of instruction in the fall quarter is Thursday, September 22. The fall-quarter "move-in" for students living on campus is scheduled to continue through Sunday, September 21.

Remembering 9/11: UCSC trustee has turned 'tragedy into good'

UCSC hosts fall harvest festival on September 25

Celebrate the bounty of fall at the 17th annual Fall Harvest Festival, Sunday, September 25 at UC Santa Cruz’s 25-acre organic farm with live music, food, apple tasting, apple pie bake-off, garden talks, hay rides, events for kids, and tours.

Prominent Indian statesman Karan Singh to deliver Satyajit Ray Lecture

Distinguished Indian statesman and diplomat Dr. Karan Singh will deliver the 2011 Satyajit Ray Lecture at UC Santa Cruz on Saturday, September 24, at 5:30 p.m. in the Music Recital Hall.

Proposed Phased Retirement Program

The proposed Phased Retirement Program is an optional tool that locations may choose to implement for eligible policy covered staff.

Archaeology probes West African cities and impact of European influence

UCSC anthropologist J. Cameron Monroe writes about archaeological exploration of sub-Saharan African cities that played a prominent role in the slave trade of the 17th through 19th centuries.

Constitution Day on September 17

Constitution Day is September 17, the anniversary of the signing of our country's founding document. UC Santa Cruz invites you to discover some of the interesting and informative materials about the Constitution that are available on-line through a University of California web site.

Lick Observatory will be closed to public from September 12 through October 5

Lick Observatory will be closed to the public from Monday, September 12, through Wednesday, October 5, for building maintenance.

In Memoriam: Mark Schaeffer

Someone I'd Like You to Meet…

If you open the Atlantic magazine’s Fiction 2011 special issue, you’ll find “Someone I’d Like You to Meet.” Written by UC Santa Cruz alumna Elizabeth McKenzie, it’s one of nine remarkable short stories included in the magazine by some of the finest fiction writers in the country today.

New material shows promise for trapping pollutants

UCSC chemists have developed a new type of material that can soak up pollutants from water.

Seymour Center recruits volunteers for school programs and exhibit guides

The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is recruiting volunteers to work with the center's school programs and serve as exhibit guides.

UC Santa Cruz expert explains origins of political crisis in Nigeria

The car bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Nigeria's capital Aug. 26 is an ominous sign of the increasing militancy of disaffected Muslim youth in Africa's most populous nation, according to UC Santa Cruz professor Paul M. Lubeck, who spent six weeks this summer conducting research in Kano, Nigeria's largest city in the predominantly Muslim north.

Community alert

I want to call your attention to three robberies that occurred on the west side of Santa Cruz in the past week. Although the incidents happened in the city, our students, staff, and faculty may frequent these areas. We want you to be aware of these incidents so you can make smart decisions about how to keep safe.

Thank you from Chancellor Blumenthal

I want to send a brief note to thank you for the many messages of support I've received this week. My wife Kelly and I appreciate the notes and phone calls.

In Memoriam - Dick Pierce

Marine Studies lost good friend Dick Pierce last week. Dick will be missed, but his legacy within the Institute of Marine Sciences will endure.

UCSC film lecturer Leo Chiang up for Emmy Award in Sept.

Leo Chiang--a lecturer in the Social Documentation M.F.A. Program at UC Santa Cruz—has been nominated for an Emmy Award for his documentary film, "A Village Called Versailles."

UCSC in the News

Sociology professor Paul Lubeck appeared on the BBC World Service News Hour discussing the Aug. 26 bombing in Nigeria's capital and the underlying economic and political strife there. Ten days before the bombing, the New York Times quoted Lubeck on the Islamic insurgency that has since claimed responsibility.

Andrew Szasz wins highest honor in American environmental sociology

UC Santa Cruz sociology professor Andrew Szasz is the 2011 recipient of the Frederick Buttel Distinguished Contribution Award of the Environment, Technology, and Society section of the American Sociological Association, the highest honor bestowed in American environmental sociology.

Chancellor Blumenthal's surgery

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway informs the campus that Chancellor Blumenthal underwent successful surgery on Monday.

Astrophysicists report first simulation to create a Milky Way-like galaxy

A simulation of galaxy formation by UCSC astrophysicists solves a longstanding problem in cosmology.

Annual UCSC plant sale kicks off fall gardening season

The UCSC Farm & Garden’s Fall Plant Sale offers a rich and timely selection of organically raised vegetable seedlings, perennials, and California natives Friday and Saturday, September 9 and 10.

UCSC offers new degree in network and digital technology

The Baskin School of Engineering is offering a new major in network and digital technology.

In Memoriam: Raymond Narverud, Dana Grier

Crown College is saddened to learn of the recent deaths of two Crown undergraduate students this summer.

University Extension Dean Finalists, Campus Visits

On behalf of the search committee for the Dean of University Extension, we are happy to announce that the following individuals will be visiting our campus as finalists for the dean position.

UCSC’s Dickens Project featured in August issue of New Yorker

In the August 29 issue of the New Yorker, staff writer Jill Lepore has written a fascinating feature story about the Dickens Project at UC Santa Cruz.

UCSC in the News

NPR's All Things Considered covered biomolecular engineer David Haussler's research on vertebrate evolution.

Paso Robles homicide

Chief Nader Oweis asks members of the UCSC community to call our Police Dispatch immediately (831-459-4858) if they see a vehicle meeting this description.

Three waves of evolutionary innovation shaped diversity of vertebrates

Analysis of genomes finds three periods of innovation in gene regulation occurred during the evolution of animals with backbones.

2011/12 Merit Program for non-represented academic and staff employees

We are writing to share with you a letter from President Yudof to Chancellors that outlines the general terms of the 2011/12 merit program for non-represented academic and staff employees.

UC Santa Cruz receives $500,000 gift to establish George Hitchcock poetry endowment

UC Santa Cruz has received a gift of $500,000 to establish The George P. Hitchcock Modern Poetry Fund at Porter College.

Preview Day 2011 -- Saturday, October 15

Preview Day is the annual Saturday campus tour opportunity for prospective students and their families.

UCSC undergraduates exhibit summer research projects

More than 80 students presented their summer research projects at the 2011 Summer Undergraduate Research Symposium.

UCSC in the News

Research by planetary scientist Erik Asphaug was featured in a Nature news story about the Dawn spacecraft's investigation of the asteroid Vesta.

Mount Hamilton not recommended for viewing Perseid meteor shower

There are plenty of good places from which to observe the Perseid meteor shower this weekend, but atop Mount Hamilton is not one of them.

UC Santa Cruz honored for 'green' lighting retrofit at Science & Engineering Library

The UC Santa Cruz campus has just earned yet another “green” building award for sustainable practices. The latest honor, the Best Practice Lighting Award, recognizes the extraordinary amount of electricity the university will save each year because of its recent retrofit of the Science & Engineering Library.

Heller Drive improvement project update

The Heller Drive improvement project has caused some delay for those traveling on the west side of campus.

McHenry Library Café Vendor Selection

The UCSC Library is pleased to announce the selection of the vendor who will operate the new Global Village Café located in the McHenry Library lobby.

Biologist John Pearse awarded California Academy of Sciences Fellows' Medal

The California Academy of Sciences has awarded its highest honor, the Fellows' Medal, to UCSC biologist John Pearse.

New face of public safety: Nader Oweis sworn in as UCSC chief of police

Sworn into office on Tuesday, Nader Oweis, UCSC's brand-new police chief, is known for his years of experience and his cool-headed responses to stressful situations.

UCSC in the News

International media coverage of planetary scientist Erik Asphaug's theory that a smaller companion moon collided with the moon early in Earth's history included stories from National Public Radio's Morning Edition and Science Friday, BBC Radio, ABC Radio (Australia), Voice of America, AP Radio, Coast to Coast (syndicated AM radio show), and KION TV; Time, New Scientist, Nature, Science, Economist, USA Today, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Boston Globe, Baltimore Sun, Chicago Tribune and many other media outlets.

UCSC’s annual literary celebration of Charles Dickens ‘full to bursting’ this summer

In 2005, San Francisco Chronicle book critic David Kipen observed that the Dickens Project at UC Santa Cruz "may just be literary California's best-kept secret. "Now in 2011, that secret is definitely out.

Proposed Revisions to Staff Policy 60-Layoff and Reduction in Time

The University invites your comments regarding the proposed revisions to Staff Policy 60- Layoff and Reduction in Time from Professional and Support Staff Career Positions.

Changes in Student Affairs Organization

In a message to the campus community, Campus Provost/EVC Galloway shares information about organizational changes under way in Student Affairs.

'Big splat' may explain moon's mountainous far side

The mountainous region on the far side of the moon may be the remains of a collision with a smaller companion moon.

New book explores Russian dachas and the link with nature

UC Santa Cruz anthropology professor Melissa L. Caldwell writes about dachas, the little garden cottages where city-bound Russians go to connect with nature and end up working hard.

UCSC in the News

Julie Guthman, associate professor of community studies, participated in a New York Times feature "Room for Debate" on the subject of "Should You Trust Calorie Counts."

Resolution introduced to name Capitol room in honor of Gabe Zimmerman

A resolution has been introduced in Congress to name a meeting room at the U.S. Capitol in honor of UC Santa Cruz alumnus Gabe Zimmerman, the congressional staffer killed in the January shooting spree that wounded his boss, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz.

Science Communication lecturer earns Emmy nomination

Ken McLaughlin, a lecturer in news reporting for UCSC's Science Communication Program, has been nominated for an Emmy Award for his reporting on "Torn Apart," a multimedia project on immigration published in the Mercury News.

Campus CAO part of panel at Comic-Con

Alex Belisario, college administrative officer for Crown and Merrill Colleges, was a featured presenter at the popular Comic-Con Conference in late July.

Physicists report progress in understanding high-temperature superconductors

A new theory may explain the unusual properties of high-temperature superconductors, a longstanding unsolved problem for theoretical physicists.

Appointment of Chief of Police

UCSC is pleased to announce the appointment of Nader Oweis to the position of UC Santa Cruz Chief of Police.

Alumna named opinion journalist of the year

Lois Kazakoff ('76, Cowell, linguistics), deputy editorial page editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, has been named opinion journalist of the year by the National Conference of Editorial Writers.

New organic gardening course offered at UCSC Farm and Garden

A new, comprehensive organic gardening course is being offered at UC Santa Cruz this summer, starting September 7 and running for nine weeks on Saturdays and Wednesday evenings.

Evolutionary|Revolutionary is coming October 15

The University of California, Santa Cruz will present EVOLUTIONARY|REVOLUTIONARY, a remarkable evening of art, science and life, on Saturday, October 15, at the Flint Center in Cupertino.

Microscopes borrow tricks from astronomy to see deep into living tissues

UCSC researchers are developing new microscope technologies to enable biologists to see deep within living tissues.

UCSC Summer Orientation draws 7,300 participants

This year, 3,300 incoming first-year students, 890 transfer students, and a total of 7,300 people, signed up for UCSC’s lively schedule of Summer Orientation events, which took place July 19 through July 26.

Renewable energy workshop brings together industry, government, and academia

A workshop on renewable energy features panel discussions and presentations from leading research projects.

UCSC in the News

Astronomer Puragra Guhathakurta was featured in a Science magazine feature story on galaxy evolution.

Registration begins for 2011-12 Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program

This eight-course Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program is open to all staff employees and an opportunity for professional development on diversity and inclusion issues.

UC Retirement Plan Contribution Increases

In September 2010, the UC Board of Regents approved contribution increases as part of a larger effort to put UC’s retirement benefits on a financially sustainable footing.

UCSC moves forward with ecological horticulture apprenticeship program

The pioneering Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture program at the UC Santa Cruz Farm and Garden will continue to offer hands-on training in small-scale organic agriculture despite a significant loss of state and federal funding to the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems (CASFS).

Appointment of Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education

Campus Provost/EVC Galloway announces the appointment of Richard Hughey, professor of computer engineering and biomolecular engineering, as the vice provost and dean of undergraduate education.

About the latest tuition increase

Chancellor Blumenthal writes to faculty and staff to underscore the context in which UC Regents voted last week to increase tuition.

Latest state budget cut prompts another tuition increase

Chancellor Blumenthal writes to UCSC students about the tuition increase approved last week by UC Regents.

Appointment of Interim Director - Environmental, Health & Safety

Brent Cooley has been appointed the Interim Director for Environmental, Health and Safety unit.

Tim Galarneau receives 2011 UC Sustainability Champion Award

Tim Galarneau – described in a 2009 Mother Jones magazine profile as “the Alice Waters of a burgeoning movement of campus foodies”, is getting systemwide recognition.

Our University – Working Smarter, dealing with workplace stress and other news

Read the latest issue of Our University.

Jin Zhang named Fellow of American Chemical Society

The American Chemical Society (ACS) has named Jin Zhang, professor of chemistry and biochemistry at UC Santa Cruz, to the 2011 class of ACS Fellows.

State budget shortfall forces second fee increase for fall 2011

The UC Board of Regents approved a plan to close a $1 billion budget shortfall through a combination of higher student tuition, cost-cutting measures, and operational efficiencies.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz kicks off 30th anniversary summer festival July 19

Shakespeare Santa Cruz (SSC) opens its 30th anniversary season on July 19 at the Mainstage Theater, with Shakespeare’s most popular farce-The Comedy of Errors.

Key campus appointments

Executive Vice Chancellor and Campus Provost Alison Galloway announces two key campus leadership appointments.

Loss of large predators has caused widespread disruption of ecosystems

The decline of large predators and other "apex consumers" at the top of the food chain has disrupted ecosystems all over the planet, according to a review of recent findings.

UCSC in the News

Wildlife biologist Glenn Stewart was quoted in coverage of the shooting of two peregrine falcons in Oakland, including stories in the San Francisco Chronicle and San Jose Mercury News.

In Memoriam—Stephen Hull

New endowment supports students at UCSC Arboretum

A gift of $127,000 from the estate of World War II Navy veteran Dudley Green has established a new endowment in support of the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum.

In Memoriam—Carlos Noreña

In Memoriam—Houghton family members

In a message to the Arts Division, Dean David Yager expresses sympathy for former Dean Ed Houghton and members of his family, some of whom died in an airplane accident last week.

Seymour Center is supported by New Leaf Market program

Shoppers at New Leaf Markets have selected the Seymour Marine Discovery Center as one of five local organizations that can be supported by a special "bring your own bag" rebate program.

UCSC alum Gillian Welch does it again

Forty-five seconds into the new Gillian Welch CD, you realize this is the real deal. It’s a low-key affair—in the absolute best possible way—with exquisite musicianship, haunting harmonies, and superlative songwriting. It’s also the first Gillian Welch album to come out in nearly eight years, and it’s well worth the wait.

Evolutionary / Revolutionary: an evening of art, music, science

The University of California, Santa Cruz will present Evolutionary/Revolutionary, a remarkable evening of art, science and life, on Saturday, October 15, at the Flint Center in Cupertino.

Hire Education video contest winner chosen

Film and digital media major Adam Mieuli, who just graduated in June, won our contest with his creative video that featured both style and substance.

Tuition, fee increases sought to meet budget shortfall

With cost-cutting and revenue-generating measures in place to fill the bulk of a billion-dollar budget gap resulting from steep cuts in state funding, the University of California staff is preparing to recommend to the Board of Regents that roughly one-quarter of the shortfall be offset with tuition and fee increases, UC Vice President Patrick Lenz said Friday, July 1.

UC Santa Cruz sees strong demand from prospective freshmen

Approximately 4,100 prospective freshmen have expressed their intent to enroll in UC Santa Cruz this fall, based on University of California systemwide data released June 30. More than one-third of the prospective new students are from groups traditionally underrepresented at four-year universities.

State budget news

Chancellor Blumenthal writes to the campus about the state budget signed today by Gov. Jerry Brown.

UCSC researchers contribute to detailed ovarian cancer analysis

A team of UCSC researchers contributed to an analysis of genomic changes in ovarian cancer that has provided the most comprehensive and integrated view of cancer genes to date. Their work focused on understanding the molecular pathways in the cell that are disrupted in ovarian cancer.

UCSC professor investigates social impact of technology

How can we as citizens use technology to contribute to the public good? That’s a key question fueling the research of UC Santa Cruz associate professor of film and digital media Warren Sack.

UCSC in the News

Results from the 10-year Tagging of Pacific Predators study by professor of ecology and evolutionary biology Daniel Costa and colleagues attracted worldwide news coverage after their article appeared in the journal Nature.

Recent retirements, September 2009 - March 2011

A listing of staff and faculty members who retired during the period of September 2009 through March 2011.

Condors land at UC Lick Observatory

Five California condors made a historic fly-by and stopover at the UC Lick Observatory atop Mt. Hamilton earlier this week.

Researchers win $2 million grant to study spread of bat-killing fungus

Two UC Santa Cruz researchers, Winifred F. Frick and A. Marm Kilpatrick, have won a $2 million National Science Foundation grant to study the spread of a fungus that is decimating bat populations in the northeastern United States.

California Whistleblower Protection Act - Annual Notice

Provisions of the California Whistleblower Protection Act require the University to post notices regarding the Act and, on an annual basis, to provide a copy of the notice to all employees who have UC authorized access to email.

Tracking of top marine predators reveals Pacific Ocean hot spots

Two big regions of the North Pacific Ocean are magnets for marine life according to results from the Tagging of Pacific Predators project.

UCSC in the News

Biospace and GenomeWeb Daily News ran stories about biomolecular engineer David Haussler receiving the Weldon Prize from Oxford University.

Our University – Fond farewell to retiring faculty and staff and more news

Read the latest issue of Our University.

Mandolin masters David Grisman and Mike Marshall lead 8th annual symposium at UCSC

Founded by legendary mandolinists David Grisman & Mike Marshall, the annual Mandolin Symposium at UC Santa Cruz is now heading into its eighth year, beginning on June 26.

Film & TV industry alums reconnect with campus

“The UC Santa Cruz student may not get the first job compared to his or her Ivy League competitor...but I assure you they will get the BEST job in the end...because they will out-think them.” That was the takeaway message from the keynote address by UCSC alumnus—and president of Lionsgate Television—Kevin Beggs at the June 3-4 Film Symposium presented by the Arts Division.

Science Communication Program director to speak at National Press Club

Robert Irion, director of the UCSC Science Communication Program, will speak at the National Press Club on June 21.

Campus IT leader wins service award

Mary Doyle, vice chancellor for information technology, has been named the Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) 2011 Distinguished Service Award Recipient.

Traffic Delays along Heller Drive

Construction crews are expected to begin major roadway repair work Monday, June 20th on Heller Drive between Meyer Drive (the access road to Performing Arts) and the Core West Parking Structure access road.

Free poetry reading and music at UCSC's Alan Chadwick Garden June 25

On Saturday, June 25, from noon until 2 p.m., a bevy of award-winning poets will read from their work at “A Garden of Poetry and Music,” with music by guitarist Bruce Abrams and piper Jay Salter. The event is free and open to the public

Bioinformatics expert David Haussler awarded Oxford's Weldon Memorial Prize

David Haussler, professor of biomolecular engineering, has been chosen to receive the 2011 Weldon Memorial Prize given by the University of Oxford.

Professor documents the immigrant experience in Santa Cruz County

In her new book, "I'm Neither Here nor There, Mexicans' Quotidian Struggles with Migration and Poverty," Professor Patricia Zavella describes how poor and working class Mexican Americans and migrants struggle for identity in Santa Cruz County.

UCSC in the News

Astrophysicist Stan Woosley was quoted in stories about a new class of supernovae in the Los Angeles Times, Science News, and New Scientist.

EPA administrator speaks of commitment to environmental justice

In her College 10 commencement address June 12, Lisa P. Jackson, administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, spoke of her commitment to environmental justice and lauded College 10's focus on social justice.

As the slug rises: Once subversive, UCSC's beloved mascot turns 25

This year marks the 25th anniversary of UC Santa Cruz's famous banana slug mascot, a once-subversive symbol on campus. This month, a former chancellor and various alumni looked back on the days when the fate of this character hung on a slender thread of slime.

Video chat with Chancellor Blumenthal

Chancellor Blumenthal reflects on spring commencement, campus achievements and challenges over the 2010-2011 academic year, and the 25th anniversary of the banana slug becoming the official mascot of UC Santa Cruz.

In Memoriam: George Malloch

George Malloch Jr., who served as a trustee of the UC Santa Cruz Foundation from 1990 to 2002, died on May 21 in Germany. A resident of Brookdale in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mr. Malloch was president of the foundation from 1997-1999.

President Obama meets astronomer Jerry Nelson and other Kavli Prize winners

President Barack Obama met in the Oval Office with UCSC astronomer Jerry Nelson and other recipients of the 2010 Kavli Prizes.

UCSC in the News

Sociology department chair Craig Reinarman's research was cited in War on Drugs: The Report of the Global Commission on Drug Policy. The report called the war on drugs a failure and received worldwide attention when it was released last week.

Parking during year-end activities

Traffic on campus will be much heavier than normal on Friday due to commencement activities.

Outstanding work in the spotlight: Student Achievement Week recognizes accomplishment

Student Achievement Week closed with the highly anticipated 2011 Undergraduate Academic Achievement, Excellence in Teaching, and Mentoring Awards ceremony and reception. This year's winner of the prestigious Steck Award is undergraduate astrophysics major Luke Kelley, 23.

Five UCSC instructors honored for their teaching excellence

Five instructors at UC Santa Cruz received the campus's Excellence in Teaching Award during the annual year-end ceremony on Friday honoring undergraduate student achievement. Students nominate faculty and the Academic Senate Committee on Teaching selects awardees, based on input from deans, department chairs, and materials submitted by nominees.

Temporary closure of McHenry Library

McHenry Library will be closed June 10 through June 19, while we move collections, staff, and operations back into the wing of the library that has been undergoing a major renovation.

Biochemist David Deamer explores how life began in new book, 'First Life'

David Deamer's new book presents an engaging and accessible overview of research into life's beginnings.

Farm & Garden market cart opens Tuesday, June 7

“Opening day” is around the corner, with spring produce and flowers going on sale at the UCSC Farm & Garden’s market cart beginning Tuesday, June 7.

A summary of summery things to do at UCSC

The long, lazy days of summer are a great time to explore UC Santa Cruz and its off-campus facilities. Whether you want to soak up some culture with a play, learn about exotic plants, or get up close and personal with marine mammals, UCSC offers the opportunity.

10x10: 10 grads in 10 days

UCSC's Class of 2011 includes these outstanding 10 new graduates, whose profiles--including photos and videos--will roll out here over the two weeks before commencement.

2011 Campus Elections Results

Please visit: https://elections.sa.ucsc.edu/ for the complete results of the campus referenda elections, as well as the results for the 2011 - 2012 Student Union Assembly officers and representatives.

Recipients of the 2011 Chancellor’s Achievement Award for Diversity

These awards honor faculty, staff, students, and programs that have made outstanding contributions to diversity and inclusion at UCSC.

Spring 2011 Transportation Survey

Please participate in a ten-minute on-line Transportation Survey to help campus planners monitor the effectiveness of existing programs and services.

UCSC artists featured in ‘First Friday’ Santa Cruz community art tour

"First Friday"--Santa Cruz’s popular monthly art and gallery tour--now features more than two dozen venues around the downtown area. On June 3, three of those venues will showcase the work of UCSC student artists.

Felicia Rice featured at Stanford's Cantor Arts Center

Alumna Felicia Rice (Cowell '78)—now manager for UCSC’s Digital Arts and New Media M.F.A. program (DANM)—will be featured in The Art of the Book in California: Five Contemporary Presses, an exhibition at Stanford’s Cantor Arts Center.

UCSC in the News

Planetary scientist Erik Asphaug was quoted in a Playboy magazine story about the potential to mine asteroids for valuable resources.

A successful Dispo Day on campus

Held on Earth Day, nearly 25 large bins were distributed across the campus to over 15 units. The total shred amount for Dispo Day came to 1,150 pounds.

Budget cuts and next steps

EVC Galloway updates the campus on budget cuts and announces five initiatives that will position the campus for the future.

Grupo Folklórico Los Mejicas performs on June 3-4

On June 3 and 4, students in Grupo Folklórico Los Mejicas mark the organization’s 39th anniversary with a spring dance performance on UC Santa Cruz’s Theater Arts Main Stage.

June 3 Forum on Demonstration Response

On Friday June 3, starting at 5:30 pm, a forum will be held at the Porter College Fireside Lounge (http://maps.ucsc.edu/wvportercollege3a.html) to give the Demonstration Advisory Group (DAG) an opportunity to hear from students about their experiences during demonstrations on the UCSC campus.

UCSC documentary exhibition premieres at Del Mar Theater

Soon-to-be graduates of the Social Documentation (Soc Doc) program at UC Santa Cruz will premiere their masters thesis video documentaries at the Del Mar Theater in Santa Cruz, Thursday, June 9 at 7 p.m. The screening is free and open to the public.

Earth scientist James Gill receives Humboldt Research Award

The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation has elected Earth scientist James Gill to receive a Humboldt Research Award.

President of Lionsgate Television to give keynote address at UCSC Film Symposium

UCSC alumnus Kevin Beggs, the president of Lionsgate Television Group, will deliver the keynote address for a two-day film symposium—Bridging the Gap—at UC Santa Cruz, June 3-4.

Irwin 2011 exhibition marks 25th year of arts scholarships

The Sesnon Gallery’s annual Irwin Scholarship Award exhibition showcases some of UCSC’s most promising young artists working in painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, installation, video and digital media.

Solar-powered scoreboard coming to Lower East Field

Wells Fargo Bank is paying for the first permanent outdoor playing field scoreboard in campus history. The $15,000 scoreboard will be solar-powered and a much better fit for the 300 spectators that come to the men’s and women’s intercollegiate soccer matches.

In Memoriam - Reynaldo Ramirez

It is with great sadness that I report that Reynaldo "Rey" Ramirez, Jr. passed away on May 21, 2011.

In Memoriam - Greta Slobin

It is with sadness that I write to inform you of the death of our colleague, Professor Greta Slobin.

Benjamin Britten's Comic Opera 'Albert Herring' at UCSC--June 2-5

Student Achievement Week: recognizing excellence

UC Santa Cruz will honor a long list of outstanding scholars, visual artists, performers and researchers during the annual Student Achievement Week festivities from May 28 to June 3. This week allows these students to present their work in highly public settings, from an annual print sale to a sciences and engineering poster symposium.

Our University – budget, advocacy and HR news for UC faculty and staff

Read the latest issue of Our University.

UC Santa Cruz has lost a dear friend

Chancellor Blumenthal shares the news of the passing of Rita Pister, wife of UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Emeritus Karl Pister.

Time to Renew Parking Permits and Metro Bus Passes

It is time for staff and faculty to renew or purchase parking permits and Metro bus passes for 2011-12.

Time to Purchase 2011-12 Student Parking Permits

Undergraduate students who are eligible for parking may now pre-order their 2011-12 permit by using the on-line application athttps://tapsosxserver.

Vaccine expert Phillip Berman named finalist for Health Care Heroes Award

The Silicon Valley Business Journal has named vaccine expert Phillip Berman a finalist for the 2011 Health Care Heroes Award.

Business Design Competition: high-tech test-grading system designers win top prize

UCSC engineering graduate student Paul Abumov and McMaster University astrophysics graduate Nicolas Petitclerc won the top spot at this year's Business Design Competition. A patent is pending for their innovative, high-tech test-grading system.

TiE Service Award recognizes UCSC entrepreneurship

UCSC was honored with a TiE Service Award for efforts to promote entrepreneurship.

Sociological association awards Tom Pettigrew distinguished career award

Thomas F. Pettigrew, research professor of psychology at UC Santa Cruz, has been named winner of the William Foote Whyte Distinguished Career Award of the Sociological Practice and Public Sociology Section of the American Sociological Association.

Paul Koch named interim dean of physical and biological sciences

UCSC has appointed Professor Paul Koch to serve as interim dean of the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences.

Appointment of Interim Dean of the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences

Paul Koch has been appointed interim dean of the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences, effective July 1.

UCSC economist expects emerging economies to push for next IMF head

The resignation of the head of the International Monetary Fund sets the stage for a tussle between developing countries and European economies, according to Joshua Aizenman, an international economics expert at UC Santa Cruz.

UC Santa Cruz students reap the benefits of Measure 43

This month marks the one-year anniversary of the passage of Measure 43, the student-funded Sustainable Food, Health, and Wellness Initiative at UC Santa Cruz that has treated thousands of students to a broad menu of ways to learn about food, including workshops, campus conferences, events, and classes.

Ant Farm founder and emeritus professor Chip Lord to be honored at UCSC film symposium

Years before he joined the faculty at UCSC, Chip Lord was a member of the Ant Farm, a groundbreaking, experimental art and architecture collective he founded in 1968 with fellow architect Doug Michels.

Psychology professor awarded prestigious Spencer fellowship

Phillip L. Hammack, assistant professor of psychology at UC Santa Cruz, has been named a 2011-2012 National Academy of Education/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellow.

Appointment of interim vice chancellor of Business and Administrative Services

Christina L. Valentino is appointed interim vice chancellor of Business and Administrative Services.

New book questions effectiveness of peace-building workshops

In his new book, UCSC psychology professor Phillip L. Hammack questions the effectiveness of peace-building workshops involving Israeli and Palestinian teenagers in the United States.

UCSC in the News

History professor Dana Frank contributed an article to The Nation about the government’s response to nearly 60,000 Honduran schoolteachers who went on strike to protest the privatization of public schools.

Porn & Pong author Damon Brown to speak May 20 on video games and human sexuality

Author Damon Brown will speak on "Human Sexuality and Video Games" at UCSC on May 20.

Dean of Physical & Biological Sciences

I write to share news with you that Willamette University earlier today announced Stephen Thorsett as the 23rd president of the Salem, Oregon campus.

Bill Doyle traces the early history of UC Santa Cruz in new book

William T. Doyle, a founding faculty member of UCSC, has written a book that traces the early history of the campus.

Student Forum on Ethnic Studies, May 24

To continue ongoing discussions around the issue of ethnic studies, all students are invited to a forum on Tuesday, May 24, from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. at the Merrill College Cultural Center.

UC president responds to 'May revise' of California budget

University of California President Mark Yudof says the "all-cuts" budget scenario described in Governor Brown's revised 2011-12 California budget would double the UC system's cut, to $1 billion. "A cut of this magnitude would be unconscionable — to the university, its students and families, and to the state that it has served for nearly a century and a half," the president said.

EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson joins eclectic UCSC commencement speakers

Lisa P. Jackson, Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, joins an eclectic selection of speakers as UC Santa Cruz's 10 colleges and graduate division hold commencement ceremonies June 10-12 when more than 3,000 students will receive bachelors, masters, Ph.D degrees, and graduate certificates.

Irene Hansen Osterbrock named Patron of the AAS

The American Astronomical Society has named Irene Osterbrock a Patron of the Society to recognize her lifetime contributions.

2011 Thumbs Up Awards

The Staff Advisory Board is pleased to sponsor the 2011 UCSC Thumbs Up Awards.

Peter Limbrick to deliver Arts Division Dean’s Research Lecture

Last fall, associate professor of film and digital media Peter Limbrick received the UCSC Arts Division's Excellence in Research Award for his new book "Making Settler Cinemas." In honor of this newly established award by arts dean David Yager, Limbrick will present a free public lecture on Monday, May 23

SCIPP researchers apply particle physics expertise to cancer therapy

UCSC physicists are working with medical researchers to develop a new imaging technology to guide proton therapy for cancer treatment.

Africa's sea turtles need passports for protection

Satellite tracking of olive ridley sea turtles has revealed that existing protected areas may be inadequate.

Galileo data reveal magma "ocean" under Io's surface

Data from NASA's Galileo spacecraft reveals a subsurface "ocean" of magma beneath the surface of Jupiter’s volcanic moon Io.

Humanities Dean Candidate Presentation

On behalf of Sheldon Kamieniecki, Chair of the Humanities Dean Search Committee, I invite the campus community to attend a presentation by William Ladusaw, candidate for the Dean of Humanities.

UCSC to host tennis championships

UC Santa Cruz Athletics Department has been selected as one of the sites for the 2011 NCAA Men's Tennis Division III Championships.

UCSC in the News

An episode about elephant seals on KQED's QUEST TV program featured biologists Daniel Costa and Burney Le Boeuf.

Clarity and vision: scholars impress judges at Graduate Research Symposium

The 7th annual Graduate Research Symposium on Friday, May 6, gave graduate students a chance to show off their projects and highlight their far-ranging achievements.

Learn about UCSC's Water Protection Policy

Campus Elections

Campus Elections will begin on Wednesday, May 11 at 8:00 am.

Community Service Project Grants

Looking for some seed money to implement a community service project in the Santa Cruz community?

Additional Budget Conversations with CP/EVC Galloway - Students

As a follow up to earlier forums, please mark your calendars for two more opportunities to join a conversation with Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway about the UCSC budget.

Bike To Work Week, May 9 - 15

UCSC's Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has joined with Ecology Action to host the 24th Annual Santa Cruz County Bike Week, May 9 - 15, 2011.

Offensive graffiti on campus

Chancellor Blumenthal tells the campus that offensive graffiti was discovered in a men's restroom at Cowell College.

Planetary scientist Carolyn Porco presents findings from Saturn in May 25 lecture

Planetary scientist Carolyn Porco will present findings from the Cassini spacecraft now in orbit around Saturn in a free public lecture on Wednesday, May 25.

Alumnae best current women's soccer team in friendly game

Graduates grabbed their cleats and headed back to campus for the Women's Soccer Alumni game on April 30. The alumnnae came out victorious, winning 2-0.

Education graduate student wins grant for dissertation research in India

A UC Santa Cruz graduate student in education has won a grant from the Rotary Foundation to help fund her dissertation research in India.

Jewish Studies conference set for UC Santa Cruz on May 22-24

A conference designed to highlight the role women have played in the forging of Italian Jewish identity will take place May 22-24, on the UC Santa Cruz campus.

Graduate student research showcased at May 6 symposium

The University Center at UC Santa Cruz will come alive on Friday, May 6, with poster, oral, or multimedia presentations that will be featured at this year's Graduate Research Symposium. In its seventh year, the symposium is designed to recognize and promote the outstanding and diverse research being carried out by graduate students from all disciplines on campus.

New endowment supports teaching and research at the Arboretum

A gift from botanist Jean Langenheim has established a new endowment in support of the UCSC Arboretum.

Faculty & Academic Employee Budget Forum on May 10

As announced in earlier messages, UCSC is facing its fourth consecutive year of budget cuts.

UCSC Foundation president elected to Glaucoma Research Society

UC Santa Cruz Foundation President Gary Novack was recently selected as a member of the Glaucoma Research Society.

Strawberry & Justice Festival Takes Place at CASFS Farm on May 5

This year the Center for Agroecology & Sustainable Food Systems (CASFS), UCSC’s Food Systems Working Group, and University Café are hosting a free, campus-oriented event on the theme of strawberries and social justice. The event will take place at the CASFS farm on Thursday, May 5 from 4 pm to 7 pm.

Dedicated Admissions officer to receive Outstanding Staff Award

Michael McCawley, associate director of Admissions, has been selected as the 2010-11 UCSC Alumni Association Outstanding Staff Award recipient.

UCSC launches Center for Entrepreneurship

UCSC has launched a new Center for Entrepreneurship, which offers students across disciplines comprehensive, hands-on experience in bringing innovations to market.

'Day by the Bay' attracts large crowd to campus

Windy conditions on UCSC's East Field on Saturday required a venue change for UCSC's annual "Day by the Bay" picnic. But the 1,500 people who flocked to the Cowell College Courtyard for the annual event found plenty of activities to enjoy: food, beverages, college and department exhibits, and plenty of spectacular student entertainment. The alumni reunion weekend also featured a forum, a wine reception, and other events.

Destiny and development in the Mayan tradition of midwifery

Barbara Rogoff is accustomed to choosing what she will write about. But with her most recent book, "Developing Destinies: A Mayan Midwife and Town," the project chose her. The book is part memoir, part ethnography, part research study in child developmental psychology. It's also clearly a labor of love.

Reminder: Staff Appreciation Picnic Tuesday, May 10th

The Staff Advisory Board would like to remind all UCSC staff members that the staff appreciation picnic will be May 10th, 2011, starting at 11:30 a.m. on the East Field.

Letters policy

Review welcomes letters and publishes them in its online and print editions; please read our policy.

Analysis shows personal contact reduces tension and prejudice

In a new book, "When Groups Meet: the Dynamics of Intergroup Contact," Thomas F. Pettigrew, an international expert on racism, and Linda R. Tropp, associate professor of psychology at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, analyze research that shows how bringing groups together can mitigate prejudice.

Information from UCSC Police

On Sunday, April 24, 2011 at approximately 1:00 A.M, four UCSC students were robbed by a group of men near the corner of Laurent and King streets on westside Santa Cruz.

International Playhouse brings multicultural comedy to campus

Two Cowell students awarded scholarships for study abroad

Two students were recently awarded Cowell College Scholarships for their upcoming study abroad experiences.

Digital Arts exhibition showcases interactive new media art

“If plastics could speak, what would they say?” So begins graduate student Meredith Drum in the written description of her project, "Louisiana Re-Storied," for the UC Santa Cruz Digital Arts and New Media (DANM) 2011 MFA Exhibition.

Gift establishes Hellman Fellows Program to support junior faculty

The Hellman Fellows Fund has approved a gift of $625,000 to establish the UCSC Hellman Fellows Program.

Denim Day is April 27: Wear your jeans

Take a stand against rape, sexual assault and dating violence.

UCSC in the News

Biologist Patrick Robinson was quoted in a story about humpback whale migrations on NPR's All Things Considered.

Campus Earth Summit keeps sustainable conversations going

The all-student organized Earth Summit on April 22, now in its 10th year, brought together students, faculty, staff, and community members to share ideas and strategize on how to transform UCSC into a sustainable campus.

More "green" recognition for health center

UCSC art alumni exhibition on view at Porter College through May 7

Feedback, an art exhibition currently running through May 7 at the Porter College Faculty Gallery, presents the work of a variety of UCSC alumni who are active and practicing artists from New York to California.

College Nine celebrates 10 years with film, performances, receptions

Nine is 10. College Nine celebrates its 10th anniversary May 13-15 with a multitude of events including "Peace on Fire: Global Blues, Poetry, & Politics," a spoken-word and live music performance Saturday, May 14, featuring Angela Davis, Corey Harris, Ekua Omosupe, and Shailja Patel at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center.

Chancellor co-hosts California Forward event

UC Santa Cruz Chancellor George Blumenthal will co-host a California Forward public forum on Thursday, April 28, in downtown Santa Cruz.

Diversity and Community Building Study begins next week

UCSC’s Diversity and Community Building Study begins next week.

Psychology professor links cultural identities, educational success

In her new book, UC Santa Cruz psychology professor Catherine R. Cooper examines how culturally diverse youth can develop pathways to college without losing ties to their families, peers, and cultural communities.

Slug men's tennis swings through Southern California

The Slug tennis team returned from a road trip to Southern California on April 15 and 16 with three solid wins under their belt.

Resources related to the crisis in Japan

UC Santa Cruz has prepared this page in an effort to keep members of the campus community informed about the crisis in Japan. This site also includes information on just a few of the relief organizations that can benefit from your support.

Senior Slugs pay it forward with student-to-student philanthropy project

This year, 21 UCSC seniors are asking classmates to help fellow undergraduates pay for their education. Council members hope to inspire 15 percent of their class to contribute, and expect to raise about $10,000 for the Class of 2012.

Three UCSC professors elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Three UCSC faculty are among 212 leaders in the sciences, arts, humanities, business, public affairs, and nonprofit sector, who have been elected this year as fellows of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Scholarship winner reports from National Conference for Media Reform

Corinne Warnshuis, a fourth-year sociology major at UC Santa Cruz, reports from the National Conference for Media Reform in Boston after winning a scholarship to attend.

Our University – budget, advocacy and HR news for UC faculty and staff

Read the latest issue of Our University.

UCSC looks ahead with Inventing the Future of Games

University research and an enthusiasm for bridging disciplines mark the pathways to the future of games, according to speakers at the first-ever Inventing the Future of Games symposium, held April 15.

UCSC Literature professor Karen Tei Yamashita wins California Book Award

Karen Tei Yamashita--professor of literature and co-director of the Creative Writing Program at UC Santa Cruz--has been honored with a 2011 California Book Award.

UC Santa Cruz increases access for California students seeking freshman admission

Numbers released today (April 18, 2011) by the UC Office of the President show that UC Santa Cruz offered admission to 17,917 prospective first-year students from California high schools – an increase of more than 1,100 – out of the record 26,136 California high school seniors who applied. UCSC also increased offers of admission to out-of-state and international students.

Mock trial team honored for "fair play" and character at nationals

The UC Santa Cruz mock trial team competed with spirit in a prestigious national competition held from April 15-17 in Des Moines, Iowa. While they did not walk away with a top prize, this group of underdogs wowed the judges with its character and conduct.

Budget comments and suggestions

Many of you have asked about how to suggest ways to trim costs, increase revenue, or make operations more efficient — suggestions that may or may not have appeared in the broader documents from principal officers.

UCSC Farm & Garden’s Annual Spring Plant Sale slated for April 30 and May 1

The UCSC Farm & Garden’s Spring Plant Sale takes place Saturday, April 30, and Sunday, May 1, in the Barn Theater parking lot at the base of the UC Santa Cruz campus, near the intersection of Bay and High streets in Santa Cruz. The sale will be open on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Saturday, members of the Friends of the Farm & Garden enjoy priority early entry starting at 9 a.m.

Hellman Fellows Program

I am pleased to announce that UC Santa Cruz has been invited to join the Hellman Fellows Program.

"Ramen & Beer" showcases student film works

UCSC's Film and Digital Media Department will celebrate its second annual showcase in the Santa Cruz Film Festival on Thursday, May 5, from 5-7 p.m, at the Del Mar Theatre in downtown Santa Cruz.

Baby falcons draw viewers to nest cameras in annual ritual

It's that time of year again, when thousands of online viewers are captivated by adorable baby falcons huddled together in their nest boxes.

More Zipcars in the Santa Cruz Community

Based on the success of the Zipcar program both on campus and in the Santa Cruz community, I am pleased to announce that three additional Zipcars are now available in Santa Cruz for use by all UCSC students, staff and faculty.

Beyond Earth Day: UC Santa Cruz students launch Earth Week 2011

Earth Week is one of the most far-ranging and ambitious student-run sustainability events in UCSC history, with a Campus Earth Summit, lagoon clean-up, climbing wall and much more.

Message to faculty and staff regarding '4-20'

A message to faculty and staff describes the special transportation measures that will be in place on Wednesday, April 20.

Message about unsanctioned '4/20' event

In a message to UCSC students, Student Affairs vice chancellor Felicia McGinty describes the challenges that '4-20' creates for the campus—and provides detail about operational changes in effect that afternoon.

Bioinformatics expert Ed Green awarded Searle Scholars grant

The Searle Scholars Program has awarded a $300,000 research grant to Richard E. (Ed) Green, assistant professor of biomolecular engineering.

Carnival Cruz and Prediction Walk/Run

On Friday, May 13, UCSC Wellness brings a mini-vacation to all students, staff, and faculty via Carnival Cruz and the Prediction Walk/Run.

Staff Appreciation Picnic Tuesday, May 10th

Please join the Staff Advisory Board and Chancellor George Blumenthal for the Staff Appreciation Picnic on Tuesday, May 10th, from 11:30-1:30 p.m. on the East Field (OPERS).

UCSC creates new major in robotics engineering

A new major in robotics engineering at UC Santa Cruz is the first of its kind in the UC system.

SocDoc graduate director wins Guggenheim Fellowship

Renee Tajima-Peña, graduate director of the masters Social Documentation program at UC Santa Cruz, has been awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship for 2011.

UCSC in the News

UCSC history alumnus Cary Joji Fukunaga (1999) has been receiving media acclaim for his new feature film, Jane Eyre, including articles in USA Today, the New York Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, the San Jose Mercury News, the Village Voice, salon.com, and more.

Labor activist to speak on the rise of right-wing populism April 21

Bill Fletcher Jr., a longtime labor activist, will present a free, public lecture, "Right-Wing Populism and the Crisis of Organized Labor," 4 p.m. Thursday, April 21 in Humanities I, Room 210, at UC Santa Cruz.

Nuclear policy expert to discuss implications of Fukushima nuclear plant disaster April 19

Daniel Hirsch, a UC Santa Cruz lecturer on nuclear policy, will give a free, public lecture Tuesday, April 19 on the aftermath of the current nuclear plant disaster in Japan.

UCSC hosts Jewish Maccabiah Day games

Jewish students from from a number of college campuses came to UC Santa Cruz last Sunday (April 10) to compete in the first Maccabiah Day in Northern California.

Second Rethinking Capitalism conference attracts large audience

The second Rethinking Capitalism conference at UC Santa Cruz April 7-9 attracted attentive audiences – much from the Santa Cruz community – for three days of discussions on the perils facing capitalism and government efforts designed to prop it up.

Center for Visual and Performance Studies to host conference on Pasolini

On April 29-30, the UCSC Arts Division’s center for Visual and Performance Studies (VPS) will host an international conference titled "Pasolini’s Body: New Directions in Pasolini Scholarship" at the Cowell College Conference Room.

Professor to create large photographic work for African embassy

The U.S. State Department has commissioned associate art professor Elliot Anderson to create a large-scale photographic work for a new embassy in Zambia, Africa.

Cuban video project screens rural documentaries April 15 at UCSC

Short video documentaries produced by Cuban campesinos will be shown Friday, April 15 when Cuban filmmaker Carlos Rodriguez visits UC Santa Cruz as part of a tour of U.S. universities. The event is free and open to the public and runs from 12:30-2 p.m. in the Cervantes Room at the Bay Tree Book Store building.

Center for Sustainable Energy and Power Systems wins Business Journal award

A 2011 Energy Award for Best Conservation Leader recognizes Baskin School of Engineering's efforts to address energy sustainability through research and teaching.

Cosmology and particle physics are focus of public talk on Monday, April 25

Princeton University physicist Curtis Callan will give a free public lecture on cosmology and particle physics on Monday, April 25.

Proposed Employee-Initiated Reduction in Time Program

The University invites your comments regarding the proposed Employee-Initiated Reduction in Time (ERIT) Program.

UC System-Wide Committees

Students, please take a larger role in the decisions being made at the UC Office of the President by serving as a representative on several critically important committees

Harry Berger focuses on the beauty and chaos of still life in Lecture

New atlas takes a graphic approach to global inequalities

In 2001, the UC Atlas of Global Inequality went online at UC Santa Cruz. Now, millions of hits later, the interactive research project has been turned into a book, The Atlas of Global Inequalities, by two UC Santa Cruz professors.

Cutbacks and concerns: Staff Advisory Board Forum addresses impacts of $19 million budget cut

Chancellor George Blumenthal spoke of inevitable layoffs, the need to raise revenues, and the far-ranging impacts of ongoing $19 million budgets cut at the Staff Advisory Board Forum on Thursday.

Campus fun with Carnival Cruz and Prediction Walk/Run

On Friday, May 13, UCSC Wellness brings a mini-vacation to all staff, faculty, and students with the Carnival Cruz and the Prediction Walk/Run.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

In an ongoing effort to promote a safe, healthy campus environment, we are writing to remind you that April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Celebration of Sophía G. García-Robles’ Life

A community celebration of the life of a beloved Financial Aid and Scholarship Office staff member, Sophía Guadalupe García-Robles, will be held the afternoon of Saturday, May 14, 2011 at an off-campus location.

Elliot Aronson wins UC distinguished emeriti award

Elliot Aronson, emeritus professor of psychology at UC Santa Cruz, has been named winner of the 2010 Constantine Panunzio Distinguished Emeriti Award given to outstanding University of California professors in the humanities or social sciences for research and activities since retirement.

History alum winning acclaim for second feature film

UCSC alumnus Cary Joji Fukunaga has followed his award-winning debut film Sin Nombre with Jane Eyre, his own take on the classic 1847 novel by Charlotte Bronte.

Demonstration Advisory Group formed

Provost Helen Shapiro and I are pleased to announce the formation of a Demonstration Advisory Group (DAG) for the UCSC campus.

Dispo Day April 22, 2011: Retention, Disposition and Secure Destruction

Yes, You Can Throw it Out! (See Time & Place below)

Community invited to 2nd 'Day By the Bay' celebration at UC Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz will host its second annual Day by the Bay celebration on Saturday, April 30. Part of the campus's alumni reunion weekend, Day by the Bay will feature a morning forum, a lunchtime picnic, and a host of other activities.

Update on budget cuts

Academic deans and other principal officers have submitted detailed plans for how they propose to implement approximately $19 million in budget reductions.

Spring Chancellor's Staff Forum

All UCSC staff are invited to the Second Staff Forum with the Chancellor on Thursday, April 7, 12:00 p.m. at the Stevenson Event Center.

UCSC in the News

Gary Griggs, director of the Institute of Marine Sciences, was featured in a PBS NewsHour story about the vulnerability of the U.S. West Coast to a tsunami.

Alums play hard, work toward "Ultimate Peace"

Slugs helped inspire the nonprofit Ultimate Peace, which is committed to building bridges of friendship and understanding for youth from different social and cultural backgrounds around the world.

Invitation to join the Staff Advisory Board

Join the Staff Advisory Board - 3 openings.

Day by the Bay Celebration

An exciting array of events and activities are planned on campus during UCSC's upcoming "Day By The Bay" event.

Housing Workshops

The University Relations' Good Neighbor Initiative Program will be holding two workshop sessions to provide students with information on how to find off-campus housing, important city ordinances and methods of renter advocacy.

Library exhibit honors faculty and the books that influenced them

During the month of April, an exhibit in the Science and Engineering Library will recognize UCSC faculty who have attained tenure or received promotion and showcase the books that have influenced them.

Spring Plant Sale on April 16 marks California Native Plant Week

The UCSC Arboretum will hold its annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 16.

UCSC shines in survey of senior women in astronomy

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics has more senior women faculty members than any other astronomy department in the country.

Sesnon Gallery’s 40th Anniversary Exhibition opens April 5

The Sesnon Gallery at UC Santa Cruz will toast its 40th anniversary this spring with a special exhibition--featuring a provocative cross-section of what it has offered the campus and community for the past four decades.

Donors succeed in push to launch Gabe Zimmerman scholarship

Recent key donations have pushed the Gabriel Zimmerman memorial scholarship over the $50,000 level needed to launch an endowment scholarship fund in his name. Zimmerman, a UCSC grad, was a congressional aide to U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

Elliot Aronson nominated for book, emeriti awards

Elliot Aronson, emeritus professor of psychology at UC Santa Cruz, has been nominated for the 2010 Northern California Book Award in Creative Nonfiction and the Constantine Panunzio Distinguished Emeriti Award of the University of California.

2011 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity

As a reminder you are invited to submit nominations for the 2011 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity.

OPERS Recreation, Intramural and Sports Guide online now

UCSC Office of Physical Education and Sports (OPERS) would like to announce that the Spring catalog is now online.

UCSC in the News

The Associated Press quoted Daniel Hirsch, a lecturer in nuclear policy, in an article about a state Senate hearing on the seismic safety of nuclear power plants.

Disposition Day - April 22, 2011

I am very pleased to announce the first campus-wide RIMS outreach project -- Disposition Day (Dispo Day) to be held on April 22.

Author Tobias Wolff to kick off Spring Living Writers Series

Each quarter, the Humanities Division’s Living Writers Reading Series brings visiting authors and poets to UCSC, providing students with an in-depth look into the world of the working writer. This spring, the series kicks off on March 31 with Tobias Wolff, the acclaimed author of This Boy’s Life

New book by Nancy Abrams and Joel Primack finds meaning in the cosmos

A new book by Nancy Abrams and Joel Primack explores the cultural and social implications of the modern scientific understanding of the universe.

Rethinking Capitalism conference examines illusion of safety nets

The second annual Rethinking Capitalism conference, April 7-9 at UC Santa Cruz, will investigate the social systems that help prop up and preserve capitalism in the aftermath of the crisis of 2008. Free and open to the public.

Weather update for Santa Cruz area

The Santa Cruz area is experiencing heavy storm conditions, including a flash flood warning for the San Lorenzo River.

Our University – budget, UCRP and HR news for UC faculty and staff

Read the latest issue of Our University

UCSC in the News

Geophysicist Steven Ward's research on tsunamis was the subject of stories in New York magazine and the Huffington Post.

Red Cross Staff and Faculty Blood Drive this month

The Staff Advisory Board is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive for Staff and Faculty on Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at the Stevenson Event Center.

Social Sciences announces winners of distinguished alumni and emeriti awards

The UC Santa Cruz Social Sciences Division has named Peter R. Stein, (College Eight, '75) as winner of the 2011 Distinguished Social Sciences Alumni Award. Education professor emeritus Art Pearl has been selected to receive the 2011 Distinguished Social Sciences Emeriti Faculty Award.

Arts Dean to launch new ‘Creativity and Innovation’ lecture series

The UCSC Arts Division will debut a new series of free public lectures titled “Creativity and Innovation.” Dean David Yager has selected nine speakers—all noted for their unique ability to bridge innovation and creativity within their professional career paths.

Information from County Public Health related to Japan crisis

Santa Cruz County Public Health has distributed the following information related to Japan's nuclear emergency

The future of UC Santa Cruz: UC Regents discuss budget cuts, impacts

The University of California Regents devoted one day of their bimonthly meetings this week to discuss the impact of proposed half-billion-dollar cuts to the UC system, including an estimated $31 million cut to UC Santa Cruz.

Call for Applications and Nominations – Humanities Dean, VPDUE, and VPAA

UCSC has started campus-only recruitments for the positions of Dean of the Humanities Division, Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education, and Vice Provost for Academic Affairs/Co-Chief Diversity Officer for Faculty.

Offensive graffiti on campus

Chancellor Blumenthal writes to the UCSC community, informing students, staff, and faculty of the discovery on campus of offensive graffiti.

Information from County Public Health related to Japan crisis

The Office of Santa Cruz County Public Health has distributed the following Public Health Update related to Japan's nuclear emergency.

Painful truths about budget cuts

Chancellor Blumenthal shares key points from his March 16 presentation to the UC Regents.

Tsunami puts boating program on hiatus: community reaches out to help

Last week's tsunami wrecked nine boats belonging to the UCSC Boating Program, putting a damper on a 40-year-old Santa Cruz tradition.

Call for Applications for the Position of Dean for UCSC Extension in Silicon Valley

The campus has begun a nationwide recruitment for the position of Dean for UCSC Extension in Silicon Valley.

UCSC in the News

Ocean scientist Raphael Kudela was quoted in stories about the massive fish kill in Redondo Beach in the Telegraph (U.K.), AP and the Huffington Post.

Reaching out to Japan

In a message to the campus community, Chancellor Blumenthal writes about the disaster unfolding in Japan — and encourages UCSC people to help as they are able.

Bettina Aptheker delivers 17th Annual Du Bois Lecture

Professor of feminist studies and history Bettina Aptheker delivered the 17th annual Du Bois Lecture on February 28, at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Memorial for Bill Shipley, March 19

"Inventing the Future of Games" symposium unites academic and industry leaders

"Inventing the Future of Games," a day-long symposium April 15 in Silicon Valley, will explore the possibilities of the next decade of gaming innovation and technology.

All tsunami warnings for Santa Cruz area cancelled

All tsunami advisories for Santa Cruz area have been canceled.

UC Santa Cruz graduate student's research focuses on Japan's quake response

Carla Takaki Richardson has been intently watching Twitter feeds and social media posts from Japan after the 8.9-magnitude earthquake and tsunami devastated the country's northeastern coast. She returned in January after 18 months in Kobe, Japan researching the country's disaster management information systems.

Genome scientists gather in Santa Cruz for back-to-back meetings

Leading scientists in the field of genome sequencing and analysis will gather in Santa Cruz for two meetings during the week of March 14 to address challenges and progress in genome research.

Traveling during Spring Break

For students who are heading home or traveling during Spring Break, Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) invites you to consider using UCSC Zimride to share the ride with others going out of town or to the airport.

UCSC in the News

Marine ecologist Mark Carr was interviewed on a PBS NewsHour segment about marine reserves in California that also featured members of Carr's survey team conducting scuba surveys of marine life.

Gilead grant supports collaborative drug discovery program with UCSC

Biopharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences is supporting a collaborative drug discovery program using UCSC's unique collection of marine natural products.

Nominations sought for 2011 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity

You are invited to submit nominations for the 2011 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity. These awards will honor and showcase people and programs that have made outstanding contributions to furthering diversity, inclusion and excellence at UC Santa Cruz. Eligible recipients include undergraduate and graduate students, student organizations, faculty, non-senate academics, and staff employees, campus units (e.g., offices, departments or divisions) and academic or administrative programs.

Author gives UCSC’s annual Dickens event a shout-out in Oprah interview

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jane Smiley lauded UCSC’s annual summer celebration of writer Charles Dickens during a recent interview with Oprah Winfrey. Their chat took place for a special video broadcast to an audience that included more than two million of her bookclub members from around the world.

Seymour Center presents lecture on scientific diving in Antarctica

Master divers Steve Clabuesch and Cecilia Shin will discuss diving beneath the ice in Antarctica in a public lecture on Sunday, March 20.

Bullfighting droids face off in UCSC student robotics competition

UCSC engineering students will give a public demonstration of bullfighting robots on Thursday, March 10.

Neanderthal genome research featured in UCTV report

Research on the Neanderthal genome by UC Santa Cruz bioinformatics professor Richard E. "Ed" Green is featured in the winter edition of "State of Minds," a 30-minute video magazine produced by University of California Television.

Budget Conversations with CP/EVC Galloway

Please mark your calendars for two upcoming opportunities to join a conversation with Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway about the UCSC budget.

New UC MRPI seeks Fellows & Affiliates and proposals for planning and development grants (RFP)

The Center for Collaborative Research for an Equitable California (CCREC), a UC multicampus research program, has released the attached Request for Proposals (RFP) for planning and development grants of up to $15,000 to UC faculty for innovative projects that use collaborative methodologies to address California’s complex crises.

Women at Work retreat postponed

The Women at Work chairs have determined that this years planned retreat will be postponed

UCSC economist testifies on widening wealth gap and barriers to financing

UC Santa Cruz economics professor Rob Fairlie told a U.S. Senate committee Thursday that significant financial barriers are keeping minority businesses from opening and expanding even in a recovering economy.

Lick Observatory reduces Visitor Center hours

The Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton is reducing its Visitor Center hours due to budgetary constraints.

Game design grad programs make Princeton Review/GamePro top 10

UCSC's graduate programs in game design were named among the top 10 in the nation by the Princeton Review and GamePro Media.

Next steps in the budget process

Campus leaders have begun developing plans to tackle anticipated budget cuts of up to $19 million for the 2011-12 fiscal year.

Clam chowder slugs win first place awards at Boardwalk cook-off

UC Santa Cruz Dining chefs and students won first place awards at the 30th Annual Santa Cruz Chowder Cook-Off at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk last weekend.

Campus Diversity Officers' Winter 2011 Update

The Chancellor’s Advisory Council on Campus Climate, Culture and Inclusion and the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will oversee a campus-wide climate study that includes undergraduate and graduate student surveys in spring 2011, and academic and staff employee surveys in fall 2011.

SHOP Student Health Survey

As a reminder, you may have been recently selected to participate in the National College Health Assessment (NCHA). If you received an email invitation sent with the subject line: SHOP Student Health Survey please consider taking time to fill out this health survey. If SHOP doesn't receive a large enough response rate we can't use any of the data.

UCSC announces Baskins’ $1 million engineering gift at Scholarship Benefit Dinner

Chancellor George Blumenthal announced a special $1 million gift from Jack and Peggy Downes Baskin for engineering graduate fellowships at UCSC's eighth annual Scholarship Benefit Dinner.

Electrical engineer Claire Gu named Optical Society Fellow

Electrical engineer Claire Gu has been elected a Fellow of the Optical Society (OSA).

UCSC in the News

Environmental studies researcher Winifred Frick's work with radar to track bats continued to attract media attention with articles by the BBC, MSNBC, Discover, Science magazine, and Science News.

Summer child care camp on campus

Early Education Services is launching a new summer camp on campus with child care for children ages 14 months through entering fourth grade. The summer camp will be available with two, five-week sessions, from June 20–July 22 and July 25–August 26.

Summer child care camp on campus

Early Education Services is launching a new summer camp on campus with child care for children ages 14 months through entering fourth grade.

Our University – budget, people and HR news for UC faculty and staff

Read the latest issue of Our University.

Chancellor's office sets budget meetings for faculty and staff

As announced earlier messages UCSC is facing its fourth consecutive year of budget cuts. This presents an unprecedented challenge as we seek to develop new ways of functioning in an era of diminished resources. We are committed to continuing the involvement of the campus community as this affects all of us. The Chancellor’s Office is hosting two town-hall meetings next week:

Alums Dana Priest, Richard Harris win prestigious journalism awards

Two UC Santa Cruz alums, Richard Harris (Crown, 1980) and Dana Priest, (Merrill, 1981) have won prestigious journalism awards for their reporting last year on the Gulf oil spill and the national security complex.

Jane Pinckard joins Center for Games and Playable Media as associate director

The UCSC Center for Games and Playable Media has appointed Jane Pinckard as its new associate director.

Retirement of Vice Chancellor Vani

After 15 years of extraordinary service to UC Santa Cruz, concluding a 31-year career with the University of California, Tom Vani, vice chancellor of Business and Administrative Services, has announced plans to retire this spring.

An important video message from President Yudof about the state budget and the future of UC

President Yudof has just issued an important video message to the UC community regarding the current budget situation and its impact on the university, and what faculty and staff can do to help.

Alumnus Kent Nagano wins Grammy award for Best Opera Recording

Renowned conductor and UC Santa Cruz alumnus Kent Nagano received a Grammy Award for “Best Opera Recording: "Saariaho: L'Amour De Loin” at the 53rd Grammy Awards.

UCSC scientist uses storm-chasing weather radar to track bats

Storm chasers have become bat counters. A UC Santa Cruz scientist, working with meteorologists at the University of Oklahoma, is using mobile storm-chasing radars to follow swarms of bats as they emerge from their caves each night to forage on insects.

UCSC alumni have opportunity to serve on the UC Board of Regents

UC Santa Cruz alumni have the rare opportunity to help shape the future of the University of California by becoming a voting member of the UC Board of Regents.

2010-11 Excellence in Teaching Awards

Is there an instructor who you think deserves special recognition? If so, nominate that person for an Excellence in Teaching Award.

In Memoriam- Adrian Burgueno

College Eight has learned of the recent death of Adrian Burgueno, who passed away on February 11, 2011 as a result of a bicycle accident on campus.

Humanities Division launches annual East Coast Alumni Speaker Series

Artist and gallery owner, Jill Hoy (Cowell '77) will give the inaugural lecture in the East Coast Distinguished Alumni Guest Speaker series, presented by the UCSC Humanities Division.

Bioinformatics expert Richard Green wins Sloan Research Fellowship

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has awarded a Sloan Research Fellowship to Richard E. (Ed) Green, assistant professor of biomolecular engineering.

New research center focuses on state's interconnected crises

The Center for Collaborative Research for an Equitable California, headquartered at UC Santa Cruz, is a new University of California research initiative that seeks to address the state’s interconnected crises in the economy, education, employment, environment, health, housing, and nutrition.

On-line W-2's At Your Service

UC employees can securely access and download W-2 forms online from the UC At Your Service On-line (AYSO) employee self-service web site (http://atyourservice.ucop.edu/).

Conference explores right-to-the-city movements

A daylong conference at UC Santa Cruz on Saturday, February 26 will explore the growing urban organizing movement. "Whose City: Labor and the Right-to-the-City Movements" will feature leading thinkers and activists in the burgeoning city movement on three panel discussions on issues of housing, wages, and economic justice; environmental justice and green jobs; and race, class, and citizenship.

Sports roundup: Men's hoops, rugby, lacrosse

In early February competition, Slug men's basketball, rugby, and lacrosse came up with mixed results--but one Slug athlete hit a milestone.

UC Class Survey - Students

We need 20% of the student population to take the UC Class and Lecture Availability Student Survey to make a difference in our University.

National College Health Assessment Web Survey

In an effort to improve health-related programs, services and support for UCSC students, Student Health Outreach & Promotion (SHOP) and the Student Health Center will administer the National College Health Assessment (NCHA) web survey.

In Memoriam—Chris Lockwood

Christopher Lockwood, an engineer with University of California Observatories for the past 10 years, died of a heart attack on February 4 in Santa Cruz. He was 49 years old.

UCSC in the News

Astronomers Greg Laughlin and Steve Vogt were quoted in a Nature article about the search for planets outside our solar system.

Computer engineering professor wins Technical Achievement Award

The IEEE Computer Society has awarded a 2011 Technical Achievement Award to computer engineer J. J. Garcia-Luna-Aceves.

Welcome visitors to campus this spring

With spring approaching, the campus will host more than 8,000 visitors in March and April.

Seymour Center presents lecture on Pacific coast sea otters

Sea otter biologist Benjamin Weitzman will provide an in-depth look at sea otters along the Pacific coast in a public lecture at the Seymour Center on Sunday, February 20.

Acclaimed playwright and film director Luis Valdez to visit UCSC

Acclaimed playwright, director, and filmmaker Luis Valdez will join his son--UCSC theater arts lecturer Kinan Valdez--for two special audience talks after performances of Luis's play "Mummifed Deer," Feb. 26 and Mar. 4 at the Mainstage Theater.

Community Service Project Grants

The UCSC Student Volunteer Center (SVC) offers Community Service Project (CSP) Grants to individual UCSC students.

CLASS survey

The Class and Lecture Availability Student Survey (CLASS) is available online through February 20.

Substance Abuse and Dependency

The Chancellor has recently issued the annual notice regarding the University of California’s policy on substance abuse.

Psychology professor's book explores everyday feminism

In a new book, Aaronette M. White, an associate professor of psychology at UC Santa Cruz, collects the personal reflections of 18 African Americans who are practicing feminism in their everyday lives.

In Memoriam—William Shipley

William Shipley, one of the first faculty hired at UC Santa Cruz, died January 20. He came to UCSC in 1966 to found the linguistics program, which he led as chair until 1980.

Demonstration Advisory Group

I write to inform you of the formation of the campus Demonstration Advisory Group (DAG), and to invite you to apply to serve as a staff representative on DAG.

UCSC's Richard Green honored for top research paper in Science

Bioinformatics expert Richard Green has won the Newcomb Cleveland Prize for his paper on the Neanderthal genome.

Anthropology graduate student wins prestigious Paper Prize

Sarah Bakker, a graduate student in anthropology, is the first UC Santa Cruz student to win the prestigious Paper Prize from the Society for the Anthropology of Europe.

Budget challenge

As you probably know, Gov. Brown has proposed a $500 million cut to the UC system for fiscal year 2011-12. I expect that our share will be about 6 percent, or about $31 million.

UCSC in the News

Latin American and Latino Studies professor Jonathan Fox was quoted in a widely published article about the loss of jobs in Mexico stemming from the importation of cheap corn from the U.S.

Scholarship Benefit Dinner to provide vital financial support for students

UC Santa Cruz will host its eighth annual Scholarship Benefit Dinner on Saturday, February 26, at the Fairmont Hotel in San Jose.

Meet the Student Regents

Please join us for a unique opportunity for face time with the current University of California Student Regent, Jesse Cheng and Student Regent Designate.

Six small planets orbiting a Sun-like star amaze astronomers

A remarkable planetary system discovered by NASA's Kepler mission has six planets around a Sun-like star, including five small planets in tightly packed orbits.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz announces 30th Anniversary Season

Shakespeare Santa Cruz (SSC) artistic director Marco Barricelli announced the company’s 2011 lineup today, noting some exciting new developments as SSC heads into its 30th Anniversary season.

UC Santa Cruz earns spot on 2011 Peace Corps Top Colleges rankings

UC Santa Cruz ranks 6th on Peace Corps's 2011 rankings of the top volunteer-producing colleges and universities (medium-size schools category).

Honoring King's legacy: Terrence Roberts fires up crowd in Santa Cruz

Terrence Roberts, civil rights activist and one of the Little Rock Nine, and the Rev. Deborah Johnson of Inner Light Ministries, spoke of perseverance and commitment at UCSC's Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Convocation.

UCSC in the News

Astronomers Garth Illingworth and Rychard Bouwens were featured in widespread media coverage of their discovery of the most distant galaxy ever seen.

In Memoriam—Rahsheka Keith

UCSC's Rainbow Theater is hosting a special event on Wednesday, February 2, for Rahsheka Keith, a former College Ten student who died in a snowboarding accident this past weekend.

UCSC Foundation trustee to offer business success tips

UCSC Foundation trustee Steve Blank, a serial entrepreneur, will give a talk at the Commonwealth Club on Feb. 8 entitled "Successful Strategies for Products that Win."

Arboretum propagates cuttings from the last wild S.F. manzanita

Arboretum staff propagated cuttings from the last known San Francisco manzanita in the wild.

Nominations sought for UCSC's Outstanding Staff Award

Please help us honor UCSC's outstanding staff by nominating a colleague who goes"above and beyond" to provide distinguished service to students or colleagues; works to grow and improve programs on campus; and contributes to UCSC's unique intellectual and physical environment.

Men's hoops: Half and half in Texas

The men's basketball team recently traveled to Irving, Texas, for a two-game tournament, with split results.

Reception for Chip Lord’s ‘Public Spaces’ exhibit at Sesnon Gallery on Feb. 2

UCSC astronomers find most distant galaxy candidate yet seen

Astronomers have found what may be the most distant galaxy ever seen, about 13.2 billion light-years away.

Library wins prestigious award for promotion of Grateful Dead Archive

The University Library is one of five libraries nationwide that has received the John Cotton Dana Library Public Relations Award—which “recognizes and honors outstanding achievement in library public relations.”

Spring Taking UCSC Home

During spring break 2011, March 21 – 25, the Office of Admissions is inviting students to return to their former schools and communities as ambassadors to share their UCSC experiences and connect with newly admitted students.

UCSC in the News

The San Francisco Chronicle interviewed emerita humanities professor Judy Yung for an article about Asian Americans' political rise after Ed Lee was sworn in as new mayor of San Francisco.

Our University – budget, HR and other UC news

See these and other news stories for UC faculty and staff in the January Our University, UC's systemwide newsletter for faculty and staff.

Rev. Deborah Johnson to receive Tony Hill Memorial Award

The Reverend Deborah L. Johnson, founding minister and president of Inner Light Ministries, has been chosen as the recipient of the third annual Tony Hill Memorial Award.

UCSC hosts alumni and friends night at SAP Open Tennis Tournament

Fernando Verdasco and Gael Monfils will play during UCSC Alumni and Friends Night at the SAP Open Tennis Tournament on February 9.

In Memoriam: Wayne Brumbach

Campus safety in the wake of threatened violence

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway expresses gratitude to the campus community.

Physicist Bill Atwood shares Rossi Prize for work on gamma-ray telescope

The 2011 Bruno Rossi Prize has been awarded to UCSC physicist Bill Atwood, Stanford physicist Peter Michelson, and the Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope's Large Area Telescope (LAT) team.

Student Regent Recruitment

If you are interested in a University leadership position that will provide you with a rewarding and challenging experience, I encourage you to apply for the prestigious position of UC Student Regent.

Staff Advisor to Regents—call for applications

This July, a new staff advisor will join the UC Board of Regents. Chancellor Blumenthal and I very much hope the new staff representative will be a member of the UC Santa Cruz community.

Special event featuring Dr. Terrence Roberts

Rosa Parks African American Theme House and I invite you to a very special event, featuring Dr. Terrence Roberts and a panel of UCSC students.

Bone Marrow Donor Registration Drive

Students, staff, faculty and members of the public are invited to register as potential bone marrow donors.

UCSC in the News

The New York Times quoted literature lecturer William Nickell for an article about ambivalence toward Tolstoy in Russia.

Sandra Faber honored by American Astronomical Society

The American Astronomical Society has awarded the 2011 Henry Norris Russell Lectureship to astronomer Sandra Faber.

UCSC to present major West Coast ‘Paul Bowles Centennial Celebration’

The seventh and last international centennial event celebrating the birth of renowned American writer and composer Paul Bowles will take place at UCSC, Feb. 4–6. Conceived by a UCSC music lecturer and inheritor of Bowles' musical estate, the 3-day event will include rare music, film, art, and an academic conference.

UCSC receives more than 36,000 undergraduate applications for Fall '11

More than 36,000 prospective undergraduates – the most ever – have applied for admission to the University of California, Santa Cruz for the upcoming fall quarter.

UCSC, City of Santa Cruz collaborate to improve Santa Cruz Tickets

UC Santa Cruz and the City of Santa Cruz have once again collaborated on their joint ticketing system, Santa Cruz Tickets, working together to upgrade it into a more functional, customer friendly, and appealing online ticket sales site.

Additional Threat Information

Update on issues related to the threatening graffiti discovered at Social Sciences 2.

Global Game Jam returns to UC Santa Cruz for third year

Participants in the 2011 Global Game Jam will race to create video and board games in 48 hours.

4th annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival set for January 23

Twenty-nine purveyors of delectable chocolate treats will offer their wares for tasting Sunday, January 23, 2011 from 1–4 p.m. as the UC Santa Cruz Women's Club presents the 4th annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival at the Cocoanut Grove, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Get Fit with CruzFit 2011

CruzFit is a FREE campus-wide incentive program that encourages exercise and healthy lifestyle choices amongst the UCSC community.

Additional information about graffiti threat

In response to questions that have been raised regarding this matter, I wanted you to know that an FAQ has just been posted to the UCSC web site at: http://news.ucsc.edu/2011/01/graffiti-faq.html

Seymour Center presents lecture on jumbo squid in Monterey Bay

Squid expert Danna Staaf will discuss the invasion of Monterey Bay by jumbo squid in a public lecture at the Seymour Center on January 16.

Scholarship fund established in honor of Gabriel Zimmerman

A scholarship fund has been established at UC Santa Cruz in honor of Gabriel Zimmerman, the UCSC alumnus who was killed in the shooting rampage in Tucson, Ariz. that wounded U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

Men's hoops: Slugs come back, beat Pac Union College 72-63

The UCSC men's basketball team improved its overall record to seven wins and nine losses with a 72-63 victory over Pacific Union College.

Two UCSC engineering professors elected 2010 AAAS Fellows

Two professors in the Baskin School of Engineering at UCSC have been awarded the distinction of AAAS Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Threatening graffiti prompts heightened campus awareness

Executive vice chancellor Alison Galloway has informed the campus of threatening graffiti discovered in a Social Sciences 2 bathroom; the graffiti warned of violence on January 18. While graffiti is common on college campuses, the university nonetheless takes threats seriously. Erring on the side of caution, campus administration decided to share the information with the campus community. And to ask for your help.

Astronomers release the largest color image of the sky ever made

The Sloan Digital Sky Survey III has released the largest digital color image of the sky ever made.

Red Cross Staff and Faculty Blood Drive this month

The Staff Advisory Board is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive for Staff and Faculty on Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at the Stevenson Event Center.

Congressional aide Gabriel Zimmerman / Asesor del Congreso Gabriel Zimmerman

It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you that one of the victims of the violence in Arizona on Saturday was UC Santa Cruz alum Gabriel Zimmerman.

Governor's budget announcement

Gov. Jerry Brown today announced a budget plan that, if approved by the Legislature, would slash public spending by $12.5 billion. The governor's proposed budget includes a cut of $500 million from the University of California's budget, as well as a cut of $500 million from the California State University system. The scope of these cuts is of grave concern to everyone who cares about higher education in California.

UCSC in the News

Assistant politics professor Mark Massoud published an opinion piece on Sudan in the San Jose Mercury News ... and more.

Paul Whitworth to deliver 45th annual UCSC Faculty Research Lecture-Feb. 3

UC Santa Cruz professor of theater arts Paul Whitworth will deliver the 45th annual UCSC Faculty Research Lecture on Thursday, February 3, at 6 p.m. in the Mainstage Theater.

Three students awarded Gilman Scholarships

Three UCSC undergraduate students who are studying abroad during spring 2011 received Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships.

Civil rights activist Terrence Roberts to address King Convocation Jan. 31

Civil rights activist Terrence Roberts will speak at UC Santa Cruz's 27th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Convocation on Monday, January 31.

Stem cell discovery could lead to improved bone marrow transplants

The discovery of a key molecule for establishing blood stem cells in the bone marrow may lead to improvements in bone marrow transplants.

Natural gas outage affects some colleges, other areas of campus

At approximately 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 6, campus crews shut down a natural gas line that serves a large area of the campus core. This action was taken in response to a report and confirmation of a leak in a low-pressure line at the intersection of McLaughlin Drive and Chinquapin Road. Campus crews are on site.

27th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Convocation

Please plan to attend the 27th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Convocation on Monday, January 31, at 7 p.m.

In Memoriam: Martha E. Morello-Frosch

Martha E. Morello-Frosch, Born September 13, 1928 in San Jose de la Esquina, Argentina died on December 29, 2010 at her home in Santa Cruz

Search for Director of Counseling and Psychological Services

On behalf of the search committee, it is our pleasure to invite you to meet the three final candidates for the position of Director of Counseling and Psychological Services.

UCSC National Book Award Finalist to appear at Bookshop Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz literature professor and National Book Award Finalist Karen Tei Yamashita will discuss her acclaimed novel I Hotel at Bookshop Santa Cruz on January 25.She will also appear at UCSC on January 13 as part of the campus’s Winter 2011 Living Writer Series.

UC Santa Cruz makes Kiplinger's 'best value' list

UC Santa Cruz, which opened with its first class of students just 45 years ago, is No. 69 on a new report listing the "best values" in public higher education.

Fulbright Scholar Program funds prof's environmental work in Chile

Environmental toxicologist Russell Flegal is busy with teaching and research projects during a six-month visit to Chile as a Fulbright Scholar.

Winter Recreation, Intramural and Sports Guide now available

The UCSC Recreation Department's Winter Recreation, Intramural and Sports Guide is now available.

OPERS Winter Schedule of Activities and Recreation Registration

Our Winter Recreation, Intramural and Sports Guide is now online for you to browse at the following website http://www.ucscrecreation.com/

UCSC in the News

A New York Times article on love and how to maintain a happy marriage quoted from two studies on falling in love that were conducted at UCSC in 1989 and 1993 and reported in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology ... and more.

Reduction in Social Security Payroll Tax for 2011

On December 17, 2010, President Obama signed into law the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010.