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Jane McHenry, wife of founding chancellor, dies at age of 101

Jane McHenry, who partnered with her husband to nurture UCSC through its infancy, has passed away at the age of 101.

Social science faculty win nearly $7.4 million in research grants

Social Science faculty at UC Santa Cruz were awarded nearly $7.4 million in research grants so far during the current academic year, Dean Sheldon Kamieniecki announced.

UCSC announces lineup for Winter 2014 Living Writers Series

Award-winning author and alumna Reyna Grande will kick off the winter 2014 Living Writers reading series at UCSC, one of a number of notable UCSC graduates who will return to campus to give readings and talk about their success in the writing world.

Formal Review: Proposed Revisions to the UC Policy on Sexual Harassment

In Memoriam - Barbara Bedford

It is with profound sadness that I share news of the death of Barbara Bedford, a longtime friend and colleague of many on campus.

Your feedback on candidates for VC University Relations

CP/EVC Alison Galloway encourages staff and faculty to provide feedback on two finalists for the vice chancellor of University Relations.

UCSC alums contribute comment, analysis after Nelson Mandela's death

The recollections and analysis of UC Santa Cruz alumni figured prominently after the death of former South African President Nelson Mandela earlier this month.

Thank you

Chancellor Blumenthal thanks staff for an extraordinary year.

Life lessons and a fast break for success

For UCSC student James Townsend, basketball not only provided lessons in hard work, perseverance, and self control—it was also his ticket off the streets.

Deep-sea corals record dramatic long-term shift in Pacific Ocean ecosystem

Long-lived deep-sea corals preserve evidence of a major shift in the open Pacific Ocean ecosystem since around 1850.

Envision UCSC Open Forums for Staff

As part of our strategic planning effort for 2020, Envision UCSC, we are hosting several open forums for all stakeholders who would like to participate in person.

Game designer Brenda Romero among top ten game developers of 2013

Program director for the M.S. in games and playable media is featured on a list of the "Top 10 Game Developers of 2013."

Computer engineer Roberto Manduchi honored with 'test of time' award

Roberto Manduchi won a Helmholtz Test-of-Time Award from the International Conference on Computer Vision.

UCSC’s Ethics Bowl team qualifies for national competition

UCSC’s Ethics Bowl team placed third at the Regional Ethics Bowl Tournament hosted by National Hispanic University on Saturday, qualifying the campus to compete at the National Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl Competition.

UCSC Smoke & Tobacco-Free Policy Implementation – January 1, 2014

After thorough review and input by students, academics, and staff, we are pleased to announce UCSC’s approved Smoke and Tobacco Free policy, which can be found at http://policy.ucsc.edu/policies/health-and-safety/ehs0016.html as well as on our UCSC Smoke & Tobacco-Free website tobaccofree.ucsc.edu.

Astrophysicists launch ambitious assessment of galaxy formation simulations

UCSC leads international collaboration to compare computer simulations of galaxy formation and evolution

Chemist Ilan Benjamin elected Fellow of American Physical Society

Ilan Benjamin, professor and chair of chemistry, has been elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society.

Hawaiian monk seal toy raises funds to save endangered species

A UCSC marine biologist offers cuddly "Real Seal" toys, one for each of the 1,100 Hawaiian monk seals left in the world.

Acclaimed director Peter Sellars channels the power of art at Maitra Lecture

Peter Sellars, one of America’s leading directors, spoke of art's transformative and community-building power at sold-out, 13th annual Maitra Lecture on campus.

UCSC computer scientists turn software verification into gameplay

The puzzle game 'Xylem' is a crowd-sourced solution for improving the security of software code.

Watsonville's new mayor is a UC Santa Cruz alum, a first for the city

The selection of Karina Cervantez (Kresge, '03, psychology) as Watsonville's mayor two weeks ago means UC Santa Cruz graduates hold the top municipal seats in Santa Cruz County's two largest cities.

Slippery fault unleashed destructive Tohoku-Oki earthquake and tsunami

The first measurement of friction during an earthquake yielded a surprisingly low value for the devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake.

News from Counseling and Psychological Services

CAPS is pleased to share with you the December issue of the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) newsletter, with some great info and wellness tips for you.

Campus visit by candidate for Vice Chancellor of University Relations

The search committee for the vice chancellor of University Relations has invited a finalist to visit the campus on Monday, Dec. 9. This is your opportunity to participate in the interview process, and I hope you will attend.

OPERS facility improvements

The Office of Physical Education, Recreation & Sports (OPERS) has several facility improvement projects planned for December that will have some impact of services and access.

Crime Bulletin — UPDATE (451 PC- Arson; Additional Cases: #13-1035, #13-1054)

he UC Santa Cruz Police Department and Fire Department have responded to two additional arson cases this past week on the campus.

Student robotics competition on December 5 features 'Ender's Game' theme

The public is invited to watch droids built by student teams compete in the "Slugs vs. Bugs" challenge.

A note to the UC faculty and staff from President Janet Napolitano

As the holiday season approaches, Janet Napolitano would like to take a moment to say thanks for all of your hard work this year.

Updates on Diversity Efforts on Campus

Read about efforts to promote a healthy campus climate through the work of the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Annual UCSC & Second Harvest Food Bank Holiday Food Drive

Your contribution of just one dollar to Second Harvest can turn into four healthy meals for a child or family in need. We hope that you will join us with a contribution that supports our children, our neighbors, and our community.

Visionary director Peter Sellars to deliver 2013 Maitra Lecture

The UC Santa Cruz Foundation presents the 13th annual Sidhartha Maitra Memorial Lecture--featuring acclaimed opera, theater and festival director Peter Sellars--on Thursday, December 5, at 7 p.m.

Envision UCSC

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway updates the campus on Envision 2020, the strategic planning process underway now.

SUA Spring Music Festival Letter to Community and Poll

UCSC Music and Arts Festival in the Spring on the East Field.

UCSC computer engineer Katia Obraczka elected IEEE Fellow

Katia Obraczka, professor of computer engineering, has been elected a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

USPS Substation Closure / Alternative Service Plan

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) substation in the basement of the Engineering Building, which has been available for the personal postal needs of the campus community, will be closed at the end of the fall quarter.

Campus Holiday Gathering

Chancellor Blumenthal and Kelly Weisberg invite all faculty and staff to a holiday gathering on Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Professor J.J. Garcia-Luna-Aceves elected to Mexican Academy of Sciences

Professor of computer engineering J.J. Garcia-Luna-Aceves has been elected a corresponding member of the Mexican Academy of Sciences.

Arboretum sale in December

Students, faculty, and staff with a UCSC identification card receive a 10 percent discount on all items at Norrie's Gift and Garden shop at the UCSC Arboretum in December.

Open Enrollment 2014 Ends Tuesday, November 26 at 5:00 PM

If you haven’t already done so, you have until 5:00 PM on Tuesday, November 26 to make UC health and welfare benefit plan changes for 2014.

Our University - November 2013

Our University: President proposes systemwide initiatives, Open Enrollment deadline approaches and more.

In Memoriam--Gordon Smith

Nathaniel Deutsch wins book award from Association for Jewish Studies

Nathaniel Deutsch, professor of history and co-director of UCSC’s Center for Jewish Studies, has received the 2013 Jordan Schnitzer Book Award from the Association for Jewish Studies

Nominations for UCSC's Outstanding Staff Award

Make your nomination for the UCSC Outstanding Staff Award today.

Grace Delgado wins two Western History Association awards

Assistant professor of history Grace Peña Delgado is the recipient of two awards from the Western History Association

Algebra Academy gives eighth graders a pathway to college

The intensive program, a unique collaboration between Graniterock, UC Santa Cruz, and CSU Monterey Bay is designed to boost math education at rural schools

UCSC's Museum of Natural History holds open house November 22 and 23

'Skins and Bones' is the theme for this year's open house at the UCSC Museum of Natural History.

Computer scientist Phokion Kolaitis wins 'test of time' award for 2003 paper

The International Conference on Database Theory (ICDT) presented the 2013 Test of Time Award to Phokion Kolaitis, professor of computer science.

Get Involved this Holiday Season

The Student Volunteer Center (SVC), located in Hahn Student Services, is offering two awesome programs this holiday season, both starting today (November 18th), where you can help local families in need!

Strike activity on Wednesday, November 20

Chancellor Blumenthal and EVC Galloway write to the campus, saying the UC system has been informed that strike activities are planned at UC Medical Centers and, possibly, on campuses on May 21-22.

UC Santa Cruz United Way Campaign Update

We wanted to take a moment to remind you that UCSC's annual United Way Campaign is nearing completion. Our campus's campaign, which is vital to so many critical services in Santa Cruz County, officially ends on Friday, November 15.

Dining Services card payment processing error

Due to an error in Dining Services card payment system, charges for credit and debit card purchases at certain campus dining locations in October were not processed until early November.

A nonconformist in a school of mavericks

Emeritus professor of chemistry Frank Andrews, in his 53rd year of teaching, includes classes that help students maximize their potential and feel valued.

Hidden workshop turns out complex equipment for UCSC scientists

Born tinkerers, two 'old-school' UCSC machinists take rough sketches and turn them into 'works of art.'

Arboretum holds annual Gift and Wreath Sale on November 23 and 24

Decorations and gifts for Thanksgiving and the holidays will be available at the Arboretum's annual Gift and Wreath Sale.

Zipcar Car Sharing Services

Zipcar, a membership-based car rental program, is an excellent option for students that provides self-service 24/7 access to vehicles on campus and around Santa Cruz.

Korean traditional music & dance concert premieres UCSC faculty works

Korean traditional music and dance, including new works by UCSC music faculty, will be presented by master performers of the Korea National University of Arts on Nov. 21.

Shakespeare SC Discounted Performances for Faculty, Staff

UCSC Theater Arts Department and Shakespeare Santa Cruz announce a special offer for staff and faculty to enjoy their upcoming holiday production "It's a Wonderful Life"

Community Crime Bulletin — Urging Caution After Alleged “Drugging” incidents

The UC Santa Cruz and City of Santa Cruz Police Departments are investigating a number of reports from female students that their drinks at recent parties may have been “spiked” with unknown drugs.

Into the wild: UCSC students learn to track and understand local animals as part of a unique OPERS class

An intensive course at UCSC teaches students to connect more closely with nature and pay more careful attention to their surroundings.

UCSC honors arts alums in Film/TV at Hollywood event

Renewing the connection from campus to professional life, a high profile group of UCSC arts alums working in the entertainment and film industry gathered at West Hollywood's Soho House.

Support Second Harvest Holiday Food Drive by joining the Turkey Trot

As the holiday season approaches, it is time once again to support some of the important safety net of services in our county. The Second Harvest Food Bank's Holiday Food Drive is one of the county's most important combined campaigns and the UCSC campus actively participates in this annual drive.

Exceptions to Campus Closure 2013-2014

As in the past, the UCSC campus will close during the holiday season in an effort to conserve energy at a time when the university business is generally slow.

UCSC ranks 12th for students studying in year-long programs abroad

The number of UCSC students studying abroad as part of year-long programs totaled 81, earning the campus a No. 12 ranking for the number of students engaged in "longer duration" study at foreign institutions.

UCSC ceremony honors Sam Farr as a 'Champion of Science'

U.S. Rep. Sam Farr (D-Carmel) received the Champion of Science Award at a UC Santa Cruz ceremony that highlighted his efforts to support research in sustainable agriculture and ocean sciences, two of UCSC's strengths.

Theatre Arts’ Kathy Foley directs students in 'Mughal Miniatures:Tales of Love'

Theater arts professor Kathy Foley and a student cast collaborate for an evening of Indian and Persian tales November 8-17.

UCSC team wins cancer genomics competition

A team of bioinformatics experts made the most accurate predictions in a challenge to identify signaling networks in breast cancer cells.

State ban on lead ammunition supported by years of research at UCSC

Environmental toxicologists documented the effects of lead from bullets on wildlife and testified before legislative committees

Appointment of Henry Salameh as Director, Physical Plant

As a result of a national recruitment and search, Henry Salameh has accepted the offer for the position of Director of Physical Plant.

Ready, set, go—strategic planning has begun

Chancellor Blumenthal describes the importance of UCSC's strategic planning effort and encourages everyone to follow developments and engage with the process.

Award-winning poet Naomi Shihab Nye to read at 4th annual Morton Marcus memorial event

UCSC will host the fourth annual Morton Marcus Memorial Poetry Reading featuring award-winning poet Naomi Shihab Nye on Nov. 14

Celebration of two new Jewish Studies books Nov. 13

UCSC’s Center for Jewish Studies and University Library will present a celebration of two new books on Jewish Studies--featuring professors Peter Kenez and Murray Baumgarten, and librarian Lee Jaffe, Nov. 13 at Stevenson College.

In Memoriam -- Josh Alper

It is with great sadness that we share news of the death of Josh Alper, our dear friend and colleague.

Marine scientists track spread of sea star wasting disease

A mysterious disease that causes sea stars to decay and fall apart within a few days has become widespread along the U.S. west coast.

Hitachi sponsors UCSC research in cancer genomics and data storage

Two areas of expertise at UCSC, genomics and data storage, are brought together under a new research agreement sponsored by Hitachi.

SSC holiday show 'It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play' opens Nov. 15

Nine actors perform dozens of characters from the beloved 1946 Frank Capra movie, in the style of a live 1940s radio broadcast, in this holiday show presented by Shakespeare Santa Cruz and the Theater Arts Department

UCSC's rideshare program

Check out Zimride, a campus-specific ride-matching service.

Chancellor Blumenthal visits Seaside High School as part of 'Achieve UC' program

UC Santa Cruz Chancellor George Blumenthal visited Seaside High School on October 30 to inspire and motivate 200 students to apply and attend college.

UCSC well represented at upcoming Santa Cruz Film Festival

A wide range of films by UCSC faculty, students, and alumni will be showcased at the 2013 Santa Cruz Film Festival, running November 7- 12 in downtown Santa Cruz.

Surgical robot built at UCSC featured in 'Ender's Game' movie

The Raven II surgical robot developed in Jacob Rosen's Bionics Lab makes a cameo appearance in the new movie "Ender's Game."

UCSC internships for high school students yield success in science contests

A summer internship program for high school students has consistently produced successful entries in nationwide science competitions.

Biologist Manuel Ares receives Outstanding Faculty Award

Biology professor Manuel Ares has received the 2012-13 Outstanding Faculty Award from the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences.

UCSC United Way Campaign: November 1st – November 15th 2013

Each year UC Santa Cruz participates in the United Way campaign, supporting local programs that make a positive impact in our community.

Seeking UC mentors for Haitian scholars

The University of California has teamed up with UEH to connect students, faculty, administrators, and alumni of the two universities in a global partnership focused on helping Haiti recover.

Appointment of Jaye Padgett to lead retention and graduation effort

Jaye Padgett will assist CP/EVC Galloway on the campus's retention and graduation efforts.

Norris Lecture features a panel of marine wildlife veterinarians on November 7

A panel of three marine wildlife veterinarians from the Monterey Bay area will discuss their work in the annual Norris Memorial Lecture.

Institute to host second art/science LASER evening Nov. 5

UCSC’s Institute of the Arts and Sciences will present its second LASER event on Nov. 5, beginning at 6:45 p.m. at the Digital Arts Research Center

50th Brown Bag Lunch

As the co-chairs of the 50th Anniversary Campus Coordinating Committee, we write to encourage you to attend a second Brown Bag lunch on Wednesday November 6 from noon to 1:00 pm at the Porter Hitchcock Lounge.

Social Sciences Research Frontiers Day spotlights 21st century challenges

Twelve professors from eight disciplines in the Social Sciences presented their research on contemporary issues at the division’s first Research Frontiers Day, held on campus at Colleges Nine and Ten.

Study maps human impacts on top ocean predators along U.S. west coast

Research shows where human impacts are highest on marine predators such as whales, seals, seabirds, and turtles.

Interim appointment of vice chancellor of University Relations

Chancellor Blumenthal announces the pending appointment of Jeff Shilling to lead University Relations on an interim basis.

Halloween, October 31st and Days Prior

Housing and Educational Services is to provide you with information that helps you to make safe choices. You should find the information below useful as you plan how and where to spend your time on Halloween this year.

Our University - October 2013

Read the latest news for UC faculty and staff in Our University. Click on the link below to read the October issue, which includes:

Community Crime Bulletin -- Butane related explosions warning

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is warning the community of the growing dangers of manufacturing hash oil using butane.

UCSC coastal experts testify at Assembly committee hearing

The hearing, held at Seymour Marine Discovery Center, provided information for state policy decisions.

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.

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.

Humanities Division’s Rothman Award honors freshman writing students

UCSC student Alma Morales and her writing instructor Steven Carter were awarded first place for Morales’s essay, "Nina de Mexico, Student of America--Daughter of Nowhere" in the 2012-13 Don Rothman Writing Awards.

Launch of New “Smart” Bike Lockers

In response to requests from cyclists for secure bike parking, Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) is pleased to announce that 24 new “smart” bike lockers are now available.

Drug Enforcement Agency Unwanted Prescription Drug Collection

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) will give the public its seventh opportunity in three years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs.

Winter Campus Curtailment 2013-2014

Our 2013-2014 Winter Campus Curtailment is scheduled for the time period of December 23, 2013 through January 1, 2014:

UCSC student to direct Larry Kramer's groundbreaking play

UCSC student Adam Odsess-Rubin will direct a Theater Arts Department production of Larry Kramer's award-winning, unflinching 1985 drama The Normal Heart, November 1-10, in the Theater Arts Experimental Theater.

In Memoriam--Lou Fackler

Louis Facker, a longtime UCSC employee, died on October 11 at his Scotts Valley home. He was 87.

Boldness and vision: Frank Gehry talks about creative risks and 'serious play' at UCSC Foundation Forum

During Friday's Foundation Forum, one of the featured events of UCSC's Founders Celebration, the legendary architect spoke candidly about his career.

Prominent legal scholar to speak on legal reform in Japan

Professor Setsuo Miyazawa, Japan’s most prominent socio-legal scholar, will speak on legal reforms in Japan, Friday, October 25, at UC Santa Cruz.

UC Santa Cruz launches $300-million fundraising campaign

The University of California, Santa Cruz, today announced the launch of its first comprehensive fundraising campaign, an ambitious effort to raise $300 million to support students, research activities, other academic programs, and campus facilities.

UC President Napolitano visits campus, talks with students, staff, and faculty

Janet Napolitano, the new University of California president, visited UC Santa Cruz for two days of talks with students, staff and faculty, and to participate in the public launch of UCSC's first comprehensive fundraising campaign.

UCSC’s first ‘Ed Talks' draws crowd in downtown Santa Cruz

An enthusiastic audience of 250 community members gathered at the “Top of the Ritt” in downtown Santa Cruz last night to celebrate UCSC’s very first evening of “Ed Talks”—three TED-style talks by acclaimed UC Santa Cruz faculty.

UCSC hosts experimental economics conference, researchers probe choices

Experimental economists from around the world will gather in Santa Cruz next weekend for the 2013 North American Economic Science Association Conference co-sponsored by the UC Santa Cruz Economics Department and its Learning and Experimental Economics Projects lab.

UCSC astrophysicist Charlie Conroy wins prestigious Packard Fellowship

The David and Lucile Packard Foundation has awarded a Packard Fellowship for Science and Engineering to astrophysicist Charlie Conroy.

Astronomers find most distant gravitational lens

Discovery of the most distant gravitational lens allows direct measurement of the mass of a distant galaxy, but also poses a mystery

2014 Leadership Academy Applications Now Being Accepted

The 2014 Leadership Academy will meet over a three-month period, from January through March 2014.

Invitation to Reception October 21

All UCSC faculty members are invited to a reception hosted by the UC Systemwide Advisory Committee on the Status of Women (SACSW) on Monday, October 21, beginning at 3 p.m. at University House.

Paul Koch honored as a Fellow of the California Academy of Sciences

Paul Koch, dean of physical and biological sciences, has been named a Fellow of the California Academy of Sciences

MacArthur ‘genius’ photographer Carrie Mae Weems to speak at UCSC

Carrie Mae Weems--a photographer, video artist, and social activist who explores the complex legacy of African American identity, class, and culture in the United States—will come to the UCSC campus for a visiting artist talk on Monday, October 21.

UCSC astronomers featured in new book about planet hunters

Several UCSC astronomers feature prominently in a new book about the search for habitable planets beyond our solar system.

Community Crime Bulletin -- UPDATE (451 - Arson; Case # 13-800)

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is seeking the public's assistance with identifying a person of interest, to determine what if any involvement the person had with a recent arson fire that occurred on on October 9, at 2:40pm, in the ravine below Hahn Student Services Building, north of the Village.

New economic research center explores policy solutions, improvements to financial markets

The first event of the Center for Analytical Finance (CAFIN), a new research center at UC Santa Cruz, will feature a lecture by Professor Ila Patnaik, an expert on India’s economy, Monday, October 28 at 3:30 p.m. in the Economics Conference Room (E2, room 499) on the UCSC campus.

This week's festivities

Chancellor Blumenthal reminds the campus of several high-profile events this week that herald the arrival of Founders Celebration 2013.

USDA grant boosts opportunities for sustainable agriculture education

A three-year, $730,000 grant will help UCSC expand courses and team with Cabrillo and Hartnell colleges to bring more students into four-year degree programs focused on sustainable agriculture.

Community Crime Bulletin UPDATE

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department wishes to thank the community for their assistance in the safe recovery of Winston the weasel.

2014 Multicultural Festival

The Multicultural Festival planning committee has begun organizing the 35th Annual Multicultural Festival.

Envision UCSC: Strategic Planning for 2020

Chancellor Blumenthal and CP/EVC Alison Galloway announce the kickoff of a campuswide planning effort, Envision UCSC: Strategic Planning for 2020.

Rainbow Theater celebrates 20 years with numerous shows

UCSC's Rainbow Theater, celebrating its 20th anniversary, has a busy fall quarter planned

UCSC to present symposium on Arab film and visual culture

Artists and scholars from Lebanon, Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Canada, Europe, and the U.S. will converge at the UCSC campus on October 25-26 for "Unfixed Itineraries," a two-day symposium on film and visual culture from Arab worlds.

Celebration of the life of John Marcum set for November 2 at Merrill College

A celebration of the life of John Marcum, former Merrill provost and professor emeritus of politics, is set for Saturday, November 2, 2013 at the Merrill College Cultural Center, beginning at 2 p.m.

Social Sciences division honors teaching, staff, and scholarship

Marianna Santana received the Outstanding Staff Award for 2012-2013 and Gregory Gilbert the Golden Apple teaching award Wednesday as the UC Santa Cruz Division of Social Sciences held its annual fall staff and faculty breakfast.

Open Enrollment Town Hall Meetings and Informational Presentations

UC is planning some big changes to its medical plan offerings that may affect your health insurance coverage in 2014. You’ll have new plan choices and some decisions to make. Come learn about the changes and the new choices at town hall meetings and informational presentations.

Restricted access on Porter-Kresge Road

Due to the large construction project now taking place at the Porter-Kresge Apartments, within the next few days Porter-Kresge Road will close to through traffic near the construction area during weekdays (6am–6pm), and will remain closed until the project is completed (summer 2015).

New device harnesses sun and sewage to produce hydrogen fuel

A device that uses sunlight and wastewater to produce hydrogen gas could provide sustainable energy and treat wastewater.

UC Santa Cruz economists praise Yellen's nomination as Fed chair

UC Santa Cruz economists who have worked with Janet Yellen, President Obama's nominee to head the Federal Reserve, said she is an outstanding economist who believes in analytical, balanced, and transparent policy making.

UCSC's founding principles featured in 'Time,' 'New York Times Magazine' ads

Bold graphics and a message of "questioning authority" herald UC Santa Cruz's entry into the world of national advertising.

SAB Fall Chancellor’s Staff Forum – Tuesday, 22nd October 2013

All UCSC staff are invited to the SAB-sponsored Fall Staff Forum with Chancellor Blumenthal on Tuesday, 22nd October 2013 from 12:00pm to 1:30pm at Kresge Town Hall.

Community Crime Bulletin: Arson

On Wednesday, October 9, at 2:40pm, UC Santa Cruz Police and Fire responded to a small fire located in the ravine below Hahn Student Services Building, north of the Village.

Community Crime Bulletin: Stolen weasel specimen

On Tuesday, September 24, at 6:15 p.m., a stuffed weasel specimen was stolen from a table at the UC Santa Cruz Fall Festival.

First Research Frontiers Day features social science research on contemporary issues

The UC Santa Cruz Division of Social Sciences and Office of Research will present Research Frontiers Day, Friday, October 25, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring 12 faculty mini-lectures showcasing contemporary research.

Expanding UCSC's international presence and engagement

Chancellor Blumenthal announces plans to expand UCSC's international presence and engagement.

UCSC scientists applaud Nobel Prize for Higgs discovery

UCSC physicists played a significant role in advancing and confirming the theory that earned this year's Nobel Prize in physics.

Baskin School of Engineering showcases research advances on October 17

Data science, mobile and pervasive computing, and regenerative medicine are featured topics at BSOE's annual Research Review Day.

Sociology's Reinarman wins local ACLU's 'Hammer of Justice Award'

Craig Reinarman, professor of sociology at UC Santa Cruz, was presented with the "Hammer of Justice Award" by the Santa Cruz chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union.

Cover crop workshop covers how to protect and improve your soil

Gardeners, don’t put away your spade and fork just yet. Fall is the time to plant cover crops, and master gardener Orin Martin will show you how at an upcoming workshop at UC Santa Cruz’s Alan Chadwick Garden.

Invitation to open forums for director of physical plant candidates

As Chair for the Director of Physical Plant Search Committee, I am writing to invite your participation in the interview process for the Director of Physical Plant.

Medical Plan Rates and Changes for 2014 Open Enrollment

The UC Office of the President announced yesterday that most University of California employees will see only small increases in monthly premiums for medical insurance next year and some people’s rates will go down, a marked departure from the pattern of price increases in recent years.

Helene Moglen to give Emeriti Lecture: ‘From Frankenstein to Facebook’

Are stories about our ambivalent love affairs with our machines stories of imprisonment or empowerment? Are we in charge of our avatars, personal profiles and robots? Find out Oct. 29 at UCSC’s Emeriti Faculty Lecture.

UCSC receives National Leadership Grant for Libraries

UCSC has been awarded a grant of $418,540 from the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for a project titled “From Descriptive Metadata to Citation: Building a Framework for Search and Communication in Game Studies.”

Genetic study of river herring populations identifies conservation priorities

Analysis of river herring populations along the U.S. east coast has identified distinct genetic stocks, providing crucial guidance for management and conservation.

What can you do to reduce waste at UCSC?

Chancellor George Blumenthal announces the Chancellor's Sustainability Challenge and asks the campus community to help reduce waste.

Astronomers observe distant galaxy powered by primordial cosmic fuel

Astronomers have detected cold streams of primordial hydrogen gas left over from the big bang fueling a distant star-forming galaxy.

Welcome to Fall Quarter

Chancellor George Blumenthal outlines four campuswide initiatives that will define this academic year.

Astronomers find patchy clouds on exotic world

Astronomers have created the first cloud map of a planet beyond our solar system, a sizzling, Jupiter-like world known as Kepler-7b.

Sesnon Gallery to feature American artist Charles Griffin Farr

"Formal Complexity," a new exhibition at the Sesnon Gallery, highlights UCSC’s permanent collection of figurative works by the late artist Charles Griffin Farr (1908-1997).

Institute to present inaugural Leonardo Art/Science Evening, Oct. 8

On Tuesday, October 8, UCSC's Institute of the Arts and Sciences will present the campus’s inaugural LASER event, hosting an evening of speakers who will lay the foundation for a new UCSC series by speaking about the intertwining of art and science.

Required Federal Notices

Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report for 2012.

Additional Elective Added – Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program

The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is excited to announce we are adding an additional class for the popular elective “Class Matters” taught by Donnae Smith.

Pan-Cancer studies find common patterns shared by different tumor types

The Pan-Cancer Initiative, a major effort to analyze the molecular aberrations in cancer cells across a range of tumor types, has yielded an abundance of new findings.

CruzAlert - Woman reports she was grabbed at Merrill

Be on lookout for a white male in 20s, clean shaven, dark hair, dark clothes, possible facial injury. He is suspected of grabbing a woman at Merrill College. Call 911 if seen.

Community Crime Bulletin

On September 25, 2013, at 9:55 p.m. a female student reported to the UC Santa Cruz Police Department that an unknown white male adult grabbed her while she was walking near the Merrill College writing center at approximately 8:45 p.m. The victim reported that she was able to fight off the suspect and return to her dorm where she later called the police.

Preview Day 2013 -- Saturday, October 19

As many of you are aware, Preview Day is a specially-designed opportunity for prospective students (frosh and transfers) and their families. The day is an important recruitment activity which connects prospective students with UCSC faculty, staff, and students.

Our University - September 2013

Read the latest news for UC faculty and staff in Our University. Click on the link below to read the September issue, which includes:

Seeds from UCSC Arboretum may help threatened species in aftermath of recent fire

Arboretum experts help with recovery of a threatened plant species after a fire burned its entire habitat.

John A. Marcum, Africa scholar, UCSC politics professor emeritus, dies at 86

John A. Marcum, a renowned Africa scholar, UCSC professor emeritus of politics, and former Merrrill Provost died September 12 in Santa Cruz at age 86.

UCSC’s Carolyn Dunn to direct play at National Congress of American Indians conference

Carolyn Dunn--director of UCSC’s American Indian Resource Center, managing director of the campus’s student resource centers, and literature lecturer—will direct a new play by acclaimed playwright Mary Kathryn Nagle at the National Congress of American Indians annual conference.

UCSC to receive $500,000 in support of endowed chair in Jewish Studies

UC Santa Cruz has announced a major new gift to support the campus’s Jewish Studies Program.

Seismologists puzzle over largest deep earthquake ever recorded

A magnitude 8.3 earthquake that struck deep beneath the Sea of Okhotsk on May 24 was the largest deep earthquake ever recorded.

UCSC to crowdsource funding for scholarships

Supporters of public education are doing everything from donning Banana Slug suits to giving up coffee as part of a creative crowdfunding effort for scholarships.

UCSC research funding tops $130 million for 2012-13

UCSC researchers attracted $132.5 million in external grants and contracts to the campus in the 2012-13 fiscal year.

UCSC economics chair testifies on bill to raise California's minimum wage

UC Santa Cruz professor and chair of economics Rob Fairlie told state lawmakers that California's minimum wage should be raised so its purchasing power doesn’t continue to erode with inflation.

UCSC Farm hosts Fall Harvest Festival Sunday, September 29

Bright orange pumpkins, roasted red peppers, and apples galore mark the changing seasons at the 19th annual Fall Harvest Festival, Sunday, September 29 at UC Santa Cruz’s 30-acre organic farm.

Deer Alert - Rutting Season

This time of year drivers and cyclists need to be extra vigilant about deer darting into roadways.

UCSC hires game industry veterans to run professional degree program

Award-winning game designers Brenda Romero and John Romero will direct the new master's degree program in games and playable media.

Humanities to host exhibit celebrating centennial of Albert Camus

Beginning on October 15, UCSC will be one of 500 venues worldwide to host an exhibit commemorating the 100th birthday of the French Nobel Prize winning author and philosopher Albert Camus. The new digital/paper exhibit combines print editorial with QR code technology.

UC Santa Cruz prepares to welcome new, returning students for fall 2013

UC Santa Cruz students are scheduled to begin moving into university housing Wednesday, September 18, in anticipation of fall quarter for the 2013-14 school year. "Move-in" for students living on campus will continue through Sunday, September 22.

Student Health Center Closure on Thursday, September 19, 2013

On Thursday, September 19th, and therefore the Student Health Center, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and Student Health Outreach Promotion (SHOP) will be closed all day for patient/client care.

Parking restrictions for annual campus Move-In

This week we are preparing to welcome more than 8,000 residential students to our community.

California's sea otter numbers continue slow climb

California sea otter numbers are up, according to the latest population survey led by federal, state, and UCSC scientists.

Two UCSC film students receive Princess Grace awards

UCSC graduate students Lena Jackson and Claire Miyamoto have each been awarded a 2013 Princess Grace Foundation Honorarium in the category of documentary film.

CrowdGrader brings crowdsourcing to the task of grading homework

A new crowdsourcing tool developed at UCSC gets students involved in grading homework assignments.

NSF grant supports training of math and science teachers at UCSC

$1.45 million Noyce Scholarships grant supports UCSC's teacher training partnerships with high-need school districts and community colleges

Constitution Day on September 17

Federal law requires that all schools receiving federal funds provide information on the United States Constitution every year on Constitution Day, September 17, the anniversary of the signing of our country's founding document.

In Memoriam - Jamie Cooper

With great sadness, we write to inform you that Jamie Cooper, a Cowell student, died on Tuesday, September 3, as a result of a car accident. Services are Friday, September 13, 2013.

2014 UC Medical Plans

The University announced the range of 2014 medical plans on September 3, 2013.

In Memoriam - Kayla Hallee

With great sadness, we write to tell you that Kayla Hallee, a member of the Merrill College community since 2010, died last week near Santa Barbara.

Renewal of parking permits for staff and faculty

If you have not yet purchased or renewed your parking permit, please consider doing so now at https://basweb.ucsc.edu/application2013/.

Permits and parking information for Fall Quarter 2013

If you are eligible to purchase a parking permit at UCSC and haven’t yet done so, please use the online application at https://basweb.ucsc.edu/application2013/.

Staff Appreciation Welcome Back Breakfast – September 10th

We are excited and delighted to have this opportunity to express appreciation for the wonderful work staff contributes to the campus throughout the year.

In Memoriam - Jean Willson

Jean Willson, beloved wife of former Stevenson Provost Glenn Willson (1967-1974), died of pneumonia on August 9 in Kingston Hospital in London.

History professor receives ACLS Fellowship to research ‘history of future’ in Mexico

UCSC associate professor of history Matt O’Hara has received a 2013-14 fellowship of $45,000 from the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) to write and additionally research his upcoming book titled “The History of the Future in Mexico.”

Campus September 4, 2013 Planned Power Shutdown

Most of the UCSC campus will experience a planned power shutdown on Wednesday, September 4, 2013, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

New Cassini data from Titan indicate a rigid, weathered ice shell

An analysis of gravity and topography data from Saturn's largest moon, Titan, has revealed unexpected features of the moon's outer ice shell.

Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program

The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is excited to announce the course schedule for the 2013-14 Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program.

Organic plant sale at UC Santa Cruz kicks off fall gardening season

The UCSC Farm & Garden’s Fall Plant Sale will offer a rich and timely selection of organically raised vegetable seedlings, perennials, and California natives.

UCSC well represented at White House student loan bill signing

A UC Santa Cruz alumnus and a current student watched in the Oval Office earlier this month as President Obama signed the historic bill that cuts student loan interest rates. Another alum helped lobby for the bill.

Engineering Summer Bridge program celebrates 10 years serving new students

A week-long residential program eases the transition from high school to college for engineering students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Office of Civil Rights completes its investigation, closes complaint against UCSC

A complaint against UC Santa Cruz, alleging that the campus created a hostile environment for Jewish students, has been dismissed by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights.

Update on fire near West Entrance

A wildland fire near Empire Grade and the West Entrance to campus is reported under control.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz to end 32-year run due to budget problems

UC Santa Cruz announced today that this will be the final season for Shakespeare Santa Cruz (SSC), the professional repertory company in residence at the campus. The current season, the 32nd since the festival debuted on campus in 1981, will conclude this year following the annual holiday show in December.

Sea otters promote recovery of seagrass beds

Recolonization of Elkhorn Slough by sea otters led to recovery and expansion of seagrass beds due to cascading effects on the food web.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz

The campus has just posted a press release announcing that this will be the final season for Shakespeare Santa Cruz.

Two UCSC alumni win prestigious science teaching fellowships

Alumni Rick Barlow and Melissa Meloy won teaching fellowships from the Knowles Science Teaching Foundation.

UCSC ranked among best colleges for computer science and humanities majors

UCSC is highly ranked among the nation's top computer science and humanities programs for "lifetime return on investment."

UCSC on top-25 list of LGBT-friendly campuses

UCSC was included on a top-25 list developed by Campus Pride, a national organization dedicated to making colleges and universities safer and more inclusive spaces for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals.

SCIPP director Steve Ritz helped ensure Fermi mission's scientific bounty

UCSC physicist Steve Ritz was project scientist for NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope

'Science Notes 2013' now available online

Science Notes 2013, published by UCSC's Science Communication Program, features compelling writing, art, video, and podcasts.

2013-14 Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program

The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is excited to announce the course schedule for the 2013-14 Diversity and Inclusion Certificate Program.

Science and Justice Training Program explores ethics of scientific research

A subtle but significant shift in how national science policy makers regard the outcomes of scientific research has created opportunities for innovative programs such as the Science and Justice Training Program (SJTP) at UC Santa Cruz.

Film grad promoting documentary that won chancellor’s award

Last May, UCSC graduate student Sadia Halima received the Chancellor’s Research Award for her thesis film Laal Pari/The Red Fairy, a documentary addressing women’s participation in politics at the grassroots level in rural India. Her documentary has now been accepted for screening at several international film festivials

Carole Rossi retiring as chief campus counsel

Chancellor Blumenthal and CP/EVC Galloway announce that Chief Campus Counsel Carole Rossi plans to retire on April 1 of next year.

UCSC establishes Department of Technology Management

UCSC has established a new Department of Technology Management in the Baskin School of Engineering.

The astonishing world of UCSC alumnus artist Brandon Bird

UCSC alumnus Brandon Bird is an artist known for his inclination to draw and paint figures from pop culture in absurd situations. The Internet phenomenon returns to Santa Cruz on Aug. 19 to celebrate his first book with a reading, discussion, and signing at Bookshop Santa Cruz.

2013-14 Campus Food & Garden Guide now available

The 2013-14 Campus Food & Garden Guide, produced annually by the UCSC Food Systems Working Group and the Center for Agroecology & Sustainable Food Systems, is now available.

CGHub honored for innovation in information technology

The UCSC Cancer Genomics Hub (CGHub) received an honorable mention for the 2013 Larry Sautter Award for Innovation in Information Technology.

UCSC receives highest score on Princeton Review's 'Green Honor Roll'

UC Santa Cruz is one of 22 colleges and universities to receive Princeton Review's highest score (99) in its sixth "Green Ratings."

Royal Astronomical Society honors astronomer Sandra Faber

The Royal Astronomical Society has awarded astronomer Sandra Faber an Honorary Fellowship of the RAS.

Community Crime Alert: Update

The Santa Cruz Police Department reported that three suspects were in custody in the Mission Street homicide case, from this past weekend.

UCSC alumna Kathy Sullivan nominated to lead NOAA

President Obama has nominated UCSC alumna Kathryn Sullivan to serve as Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere.

Community Crime Alert: Shots fired on Mission Street

On August 2, 2013 at 10:48 PM, Santa Cruz Police Officers responded to a report of shots fired in the 1800 and 2000 blocks of Mission Street. Additional calls indicated a victim of a shooting who collided in the parking lot of the Burger King parking lot at 2015 Mission Street.

UCSC’s Dana Frank speaks in Congress about Human Rights in Honduras

UC Santa Cruz history professor Dana Frank testified last week before the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission in the U.S. House of Representatives about human rights and U.S. policy in Honduras.

Informational Notice: Anatomical Donation/Materials Programs Policy

The University invites non-represented employees to comment on the revised, system-wide Anatomical Donation/Materials Programs policy.

Staff Appreciation Welcome Back Breakfast – September 10th

Please join the Staff Advisory Board and Chancellor George Blumenthal for the Staff Appreciation Welcome Back Breakfast, Tuesday, September 10, 2013 from 7:30--10:30 a.m. in the Stevenson Event Center.

Psychology professor Phillip Hammack wins early career award

UC Santa Cruz associate professor of psychology Phillip Hammack is one of two winners of the 2013 Erik Erikson Early Career Award from the International Society of Political Psychology.

UCSC awarded three NEH grants for Humanities projects

UC Santa Cruz has received three grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to support humanities projects in the Literature Department.

Chancellor, other university leaders warn of 'innovation deficit'

UCSC chancellor George Blumenthal is one of 165 university presidents and chancellors in the United States who have signed an open letter to President Obama and members of congress, expressing concern about federal budget cuts to research and higher education.

UCSC acquires powerful new astrophysics supercomputer system

State-of-the-art computer systems have been instrumental in making UCSC one of the world's leading centers for computational astrophysics and planetary science.

Physicist Hitoshi Murayama to speak on 'The Quantum Universe' August 14

Renowned physicist Hitoshi Murayama will give a public lecture on "The Quantum Universe" on Wednesday, August 14, at the Rio Theater.

Earth scientist Casey Moore elected fellow of the American Geophysical Union

AGU fellows are a select group of distinguished scientists who have made exceptional scientific contributions in the field of Earth science.

In Memoriam: Doug Weismann

Doug Weismann, an Information Technology Services staff member, passed away over the weekend. He joined ITS in March of this year after many years as an employee of the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey and at Cisco Systems.

Descendants of Charles Dickens to appear at UCSC’s annual celebration

Gerald Dickens, the great-great-grandson, and Lucinda Dickens Hawksley, the great-great-great-granddaughter of Charles Dickens, will speak and perform as part of the annual Dickens Universe program, running August 4-10 on the UC Santa Cruz campus.

Scientific authorities sign TMT master agreement

The scientific authorities of the Thiry Meter Telescope partners have signed a master agreement defining the project goals and establishing a governance structure.

Colleges Nine and Ten Provost Helen Shapiro to head UC Washington Center

Helen Shapiro, provost of Colleges Nine and Ten at UC Santa Cruz, has been named executive director of the University of California's Washington Center known as UCDC.

50th Anniversary Planning Update

This is a reminder of the upcoming 50th Anniversary Brown Bag event, Monday, July 29, along with our updated letter, revised to reflect responses we received from faculty.

UCSC dance research published in prestigious Psychology Science journal

A new study by a research group from UC Santa Cruz in dance has been published in Psychological Science, the highest ranked empirical journal in psychology.

In Memoriam – Shayne Coppedge

We regret to tell you that Shayne Marie Coppedge, a recent graduate of the University and a member of Porter College, died unexpectedly on July 3, 2013, from a pulmonary embolism.

UCSC politics professor pioneers research on law in fragile states

Mark Fathi Massoud's family fled Sudan in 1983 when he was a boy. Now a lawyer and assistant professor of politics and legal studies at UC Santa Cruz, Massoud has published his first book, 'Law’s Fragile State: Colonial, Authoritarian, and Humanitarian Legacies in Sudan'

Bees ‘betray’ their flowers when pollinator species decline, study shows

Remove even one bumblebee species from an ecosystem and the impact is swift and clear: Their floral “sweethearts” produce significantly fewer seeds, a new study finds.

Our University - July 2013

The July issue of Our University, the systemwide newsletter for faculty and staff, is now available.

Soc Doc alumna’s work with Syrian refugees featured on CBS News

UCSC alumna Bridgette Auger’s ongoing work with Syrian refugees is featured as “The Toll of Syria’s War” on the CBS News web site.

Regents appoint Janet Napolitano as UC's first woman president

The University of California Board of Regents July 18 appointed Janet Napolitano, secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and a two-term governor of Arizona, as the 20th president of the University of California.

Letter from UC Board of Regents Chairman Bruce Varner

As chairman of the UC Board of Regents, I am pleased to announce that today (July 18) U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano was appointed as the 20th president of the University of California.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz kicks off 2013 summer festival July 23

The 32nd season of Shakespeare Santa Cruz (SSC) opens July 23 with Shakespeare’s popular and thought-provoking comedy, The Taming of the Shrew.

50th Anniversary Planning Update

The Campus Coordinating Committee has been formed to help organize UCSC's 50th Anniversary, a celebration that will honor the campus' glorious past, its innovative present, and its exciting future.

UC Santa Cruz launches first online course with Coursera

UC Santa Cruz announced today the launch of its first free online course open to the public through the Coursera platform. Titled The Holocaust, the course traces the destruction of the Jews and Jewish life in Europe by Nazi Germany, drawing on major works of history, literature, and film.

In Memoriam – Erendira Vaca Jaramillo

Please join me and my colleagues at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) in remembering employee, Erendira Vaca Jaramillo.

Shakespeare SC Discounted Performances for Faculty, Staff

Take advantage of special offers for staff and faculty to enjoy Shakespeare Santa Cruz at a discounted price.

Regents' special committee nominates Janet Napolitano for next UC president

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano has been nominated for appointment as the 20th president of the University of California, Regent Sherry Lansing announced today (July 12).

UCSC researchers develop 3D display with no ghosting for viewers without glasses

3D+2D TV allows viewers with stereo glasses to see 3D images, while viewers without the glasses see a normal 2D image.

Homeland Security Chief Janet Napolitano nominated to be next UC president

Chancellor Blumenthal shares the news that Homeland Security Chief Janet Napolitano has been nominated to be the next UC president.

Geothermal power facility induces earthquakes, study finds

Seismologists found a strong correlation between seismic activity and operations for production of geothermal power.

Lick Observatory's 'Saturday Stars' program offers prime viewing opportunities

A new program at Lick Observatory offers prime viewing opportunities for amateur astronomy groups.

Stanford, UCSC study predicts oil demand to peak around 2035

Fears of depleting the Earth’s supply of oil are unwarranted, according to new research, which describes instead a coming peak and decline in demand for oil.

Latin American and Latino Studies professor wins career enhancement fellowship

Sylvanna Falcón, assistant professor of Latin American and Latino Studies at UC Santa Cruz, has been awarded a yearlong Career Enhancement Fellowship for junior faculty administered by the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation.

In Memoriam – Jennifer Ai Kuyama

We regret to tell you that Jennifer Ai Kuyama, a senior at the university and a member of Porter College, died June 25, 2013, following an illness. Jennifer majored in History of Art and Visual Culture and lived off campus.

Seafloor research expedition features live online video feed

Hydrogeologist Andrew Fisher is leading an expedition to explore fluid flow and microbial habitats deep within the ocean crust.

Campus honors 'best of the best' with year-end teaching awards

Seven faculty members from UCSC received the 2012-13 Excellence in Teaching Awards during a recent campus ceremony.

Anthropology's Triloki Pandey wins excellence in teaching award

UC Santa Cruz anthropology professor Triloki Pandey has been named winner of the Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award given by the American Anthropological Association and Oxford University Press.

In Memoriam — Annais Rittenberg

We regret to tell you that Annais Rittenberg, a senior at the university and a member of Porter College, died Wednesday morning near Yosemite National Park, when a large oak tree fell suddenly to the ground.

Military sonar can alter blue whale behavior

Blue whales off the coast of California changed their behavior when exposed to underwater sounds like those used in U.S. military exercises.

Cover coup

A childhood dream of gracing the cover of National Geographic comes true for Rob Irion.

Founders Celebration to honor architect Frank Gehry

Frank Gehry, widely considered one of the most important and influential architects of our time, will receive the Foundation Medal during the seventh annual Founders Celebration in October.

In Memoriam — Ulisses Fonseca

It is with deep sadness that we write to let you know that College Eight senior Ulisses Fonseca died on Monday, June 24 in a car accident near Santa Cruz.

UCSC Police Department Organizational Changes

This message is to announce program changes that will take effect in the UC Santa Cruz Police Department later this summer.

Our University - June 2013

Read the latest news for UC faculty and staff in Our University.

UC Santa Cruz to offer new Spanish Studies B.A. degree

Beginning this fall, students at UC Santa Cruz can now declare a major in Spanish Studies, leading to a new bachelor of arts degree.

Study reveals key step in protein synthesis

Scientists show how the protein-building ribosome translates genetic code into proteins without making mistakes.

Court's same sex marriage ruling called a sea change for gays, lesbians

The U.S. Supreme Court rulings on same sex marriage "suggest a sea change in our culture for gays and lesbians," said a UC Santa Cruz social psychologist who studies issues of sexual identity.

Scientists sequence genome of 700,000-year-old horse

An international team of scientists has sequenced the genome of an ancient horse that lived 700,000 years ago.

Blow the Whistle on Government Fraud, Waste and Abuse - UCOP

The University of California is committed to maintaining the highest standards of conduct in the fulfillment of its education, research, public service and patient care mission.

New 3-acre Hay Barn and 2-acre lower quarry fields added to UCSC Farm

A public tour is set for Saturday, June 29, of new fields added to the UCSC Farm. The tour, from 10 a.m. to noon, will include a visit to the soon-to-be restored historic Cowell Ranch Hay Barn.

Astronomers detect three planets in habitable zone of nearby star

A new study reveals a record-breaking three super-Earths orbiting in the "habitable zone" of a nearby star.

UC Santa Cruz ranks tops in research influence, 11th overall among universities under 50

UC Santa Cruz ranks at the very top – 99.9th percentile – in research influence, and 11th overall among the 100 top universities in the world less than 50 years old, according to an annual analysis by Times Higher Education.

Ocean sciences grad student Meghan Powers featured in UC research profile

Graduate student Meghan Powers dives into her work to study bioluminescent marine life.

California Whistleblower Protection Act- Annual Notice

Provisions of the California Whistleblower Protection Act (Government Code Sections 8545.2 and 8548.3) 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.

Summer 2013 Orientation Dates

Starting July 24, over 4,000 new UC Santa Cruz students and over 2,000 family members will be on our campus for Summer Orientation.

High school student's work in UCSC lab earns Intel Science Fair prize

Eesha Khare, a student at Lynbrook High School in San Jose, won a $50,000 science fair prize for work carried out in Yat Li's chemistry lab.

UCSC scientist attends White House ceremony honoring open science

David Haussler attended a White House event highlighting Open Science "Champions of Change."

Appointment of interim University Librarian

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway announces the appointment of M. Elizabeth Cowell as interim University Librarian.

2013 Thumbs Up Awards

The Staff Advisory Board is very pleased to sponsor the 2013 UCSC Thumbs Up Awards.

UCSC ham radio club takes part in annual Field Day exercise June 22-23

Faculty and students from the Baskin School of Engineering will take part in the national Emergency Communications Field Day.

Anthropologists argue field must play a vital role in climate change studies

Anthropologists can and must play a vital role in climate change studies, a UC Santa Cruz professor and a former UCSC doctoral student argue in an influential scholarly journal. That role has long been overlooked, they write.

UCRP Contribution Rate Increase

We write to remind you that, as previously announced, contribution rates to the UC Retirement Plan (UCRP) for both the university and employees will increase next month.

Interim appointment of vice chancellor of research

Campus Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway announces the appointment of Scott Brandt as interim vice chancellor of research, pending approval by UC President Mark Yudof.

Submarine springs reveal how coral reefs respond to ocean acidification

Ocean acidification due to rising carbon dioxide levels will reduce the density of coral skeletons, making coral reefs more vulnerable to disruption and erosion.

Major grant funds UCSC researchers using big data to predict cancer outcomes

UCSC bioinformatics experts received a $3.5 million NIH grant to develop tools to analyze cancer genomics data.

Gene patent decision called step forward for open research

Genetics researchers at UC Santa Cruz said the U.S. Supreme Court's unanimous ruling that human genes cannot be patented will help keep advanced genetic research from being controlled by private biotechnology companies.

New exhibit now on display at UCSC’s Grateful Dead Archive

“Songs of Our Own: The Art of the Grateful Dead Phenomenon” is the second annual exhibition of The Grateful Dead Archive, now open to the public at UCSC’s McHenry Library.

Free poetry reading and music at UCSC's Alan Chadwick Garden June 23

The historic Alan Chadwick Garden at UC Santa Cruz will ring out with poetry and music on Sunday, June 23, from 12 noon until 2 p.m., when a bevy of award-winning poets will read their work.

Health sciences grad Aaron Surrey earns Sutter medical school scholarship

Health sciences grad Aaron Surrey will receive the 7th annual Primary Care Physician Award.

2013 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity

Every year, the campus honors people and programs that contribute to diversity at UC Santa Cruz.

Wrapping up a great year and looking ahead

Chancellor Blumenthal shares thoughts about the year that's ending--and looks ahead to the fall.

Steck Award winner shares stories of survival

Kristoffer Hellén traveled to Europe and Russia, to find out why two small and vulnerable ethnic groups resist assimilation, hold onto their cultures, and survive. Now he is being recognized with one of UCSC's highest undergraduate honors.

Anthropology professor Anna Tsing wins $5 million Danish research award

UC Santa Cruz anthropology professor Anna Tsing is one of six international scholars to win a $5 million Niels Bohr Professorship from the Danish National Research Foundation.

UCSC ranked in top 10 for 'City Year-AmeriCorps' participation

UC Santa Cruz students have a strong desire to give back. Supporting that fact is a new ranking that includes the campus among the top 10 feeder schools for City Year’s 2013-2014 corps.

Ten social science majors win undergraduate honor awards

Social Sciences Dean Sheldon Kamieniecki presented 10 students with social sciences majors with awards for their senior theses as part of his 2012-2013 undergraduate awards competition. Three of the students also won chancellor's awards.

Parking during year-end activities

As the campus prepares for the many commencement and year-end celebrations this weekend, I wanted to alert you to the impact this will have on traffic and parking.

Student parking during year-end activities

As the campus prepares for the many commencement and year-end celebrations this weekend, I wanted to alert you to the impact this will have on traffic and parking.

Spring update on 2012-13 curriculum changes

It has been an eventful year in academic planning, and I write to update the campus on changes to the graduate and undergraduate curriculum as well as plans for promoting major learning outcomes.

Training exercise June 18-20

A training exercise sponsored by the UC Santa Cruz Police Department will be held the week of June 18-20, 2013, at the Porter Dormitory area.

Large-scale biodiversity is vital to maintain ecosystem health

New analysis by ecologists at UC Santa Cruz demonstrates that high levels of biological diversity are necessary to maintain ecosystem health in larger landscapes over long periods of time.

2013-14 Salary Plan

We are pleased to inform you that the University will be implementing systemwide salary increases for the 2013-14 fiscal year, effective July 1, 2013.

Major study assesses sea level changes due to ice sheet losses

Improved satellite measurements and computer simulations of ice sheets are creating a more accurate picture of the current and future rise in global sea level.

Genomics pioneers look to future, form global alliance for data sharing

UCSC bioinformatics expert David Haussler is on organizing committee for global alliance to enable secure sharing of genomic and clinical data.

7th annual screening of Soc Doc graduate films at Del Mar Theatre

UCSC presents the 7th annual exhibition of thesis films from the Film and Digital Media Department’s masters program in Social Documentation, June 12, at the Del Mar Theater.

New College Nine mural is a collaboration with OxfamUSA

A colorful, new mural graces the entrance to College Nine, alongside another that students painted last year bearing a message of peace.

'I recognize I can make a difference'

Student Carson Watts's experience in a Ghanaian slum confirmed his career path of sustainable development.

Finding the correlations

Nineteen-year-old senior Emerson Glassey wrote a software program that rapidly analyzes compounds produced by bacteria, which could help in the development of new drugs.

Request Campus Input About Proposed UC Santa Cruz Smoke & Tobacco Free Policy

We write to request campus input on the proposed UC Santa Cruz Smoke & Tobacco Free Policy.

UCSC commencements, June 14-16, feature myriad speakers

A member of Congress, an eminent historian, several alumni, professors, and the daughter of the Oakes College founding provost are among the speakers who will address UCSC graduates during commencement ceremonies June 14-16.

UCSC graduate honored for “green” leadership skills

Focus the Nation, a non-profit organization, has recognized UCSC graduate Dominic Coccia as one of the nation’s top rising young leaders in sustainable energy.

Engineering students present senior design projects

Corporate Sponsored Senior Project Program gives students an opportunity to work on real-world engineering problems.

Music of the Spheres draws summer visitors to Lick Observatory

Lick Observatory's summer concert series features music, lectures, and star-gazing on Mt. Hamilton.

Popular Community Studies major reinstated at UC Santa Cruz

The popular Community Studies major, suspended in 2010, has been reinstated at UC Santa Cruz beginning fall 2013.

Linguistics professor receives Dizikes Award for teaching in Humanities

Linguistics professor Donka Farkas was presented with the 2013 John Dizikes Teaching Award in Humanities yesterday at the Humanities Division’s Spring Awards Celebration.

Vice Chancellor of Research

In consultation with the search committee for the vice chancellor of research, I have decided to close the search, recraft the job description, and reopen the search in the fall.

2013 Campus Elections Results

Results from the 2013 Campus Elections are now available - thank you to everyone who participated.

Congressman Farr honors Sandy Faber at Senate meeting

U.S. Congressman Sam Farr paid a surprise visit to the May 29 meeting of UCSC's Academic Senate in order to pay tribute to astronomer Sandra Faber.

Zero Waste Move Out Programs

Use this opportunity to donate AND help save the environment.

UCSC Spring Opera: Fidelity, love…and the Tour de France

Each spring, the UCSC Music Department offers up a major opera production--the only fully staged, live opera presentation in Santa Cruz County. This year it will present "Così fan tutte," a story of love and jealously, featuring the music of Mozart and the comic libretto of Lorenzo da Ponte.

UCSC showcases outstanding student artists in Irwin Scholars Exhibition

UCSC's Irwin Scholars Exhibition at the Sesnon Gallery features work from 12 students selected for outstanding work and promise in the visual arts.

Carbon capture technique produces hydrogen fuel, offsets ocean acidification

Scientists have discovered and demonstrated a new technique to remove and store atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Memorial events commemorate the life of Professor Aaronette White

Two events commemorating the life of UC Santa Cruz psychology professor Aaronette White are planned for Friday, May 31, and June 1, 2013 on the UCSC campus.

Farm & Garden Market Cart opens at UCSC entrance Tuesday, June 4

The chance to “buy fresh, buy local” and support new organic farmers and gardeners starts again Tuesday, June 4, when organically grown berries, vegetables, and flowers go on sale at the UCSC Farm & Garden’s Market Cart.

Free monthly guided tours of the UCSC Farm begin Sunday, June 2

Free, guided tours of one of Santa Cruz’s most beautiful locations—the 30-acre organic farm at UC Santa Cruz begin Sunday, June 2 from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

In Memoriam — Henry Hilgard

Henry Hilgard, professor emeritus of biology, died unexpectedly on April 13, 2013.

This summer there are several construction projects the campus is undertaking to improve our Electrical, Gas, Heating Water, and Storm Water systems, as well as the start of a two-summer major renovation and renewal of residential facilities at Merrill College.

UCSC film professor celebrates release of new book at Lincoln Center

Two decades ago, UCSC film professor B. Ruby Rich coined the term “New Queer Cinema” to describe a new type of film making its debut at film festivals featuring lesbian and gay protagonists. Her latest book offers new thoughts on the topic and also brings together the best of Rich’s writing on the genre.

Global Nuclear Awareness Coalition to hold first public meeting

The Global Nuclear Awareness Coalition (GNAC) will hold its first public meeting Thursday, May 23 at UC Santa Cruz.

UCSC offers professional degree in games and playable media

A new master's degree program in Games and Playable Media is being offered from the UCSC Silicon Valley site in Santa Clara.

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 2013-14.

Time to Purchase 2013-14 Student Parking Permits - Grads

Graduate students may now pre-order their 2013-14 permit by using the on-line application at https://basweb.ucsc.edu/application2013/.

Time to Purchase 2013-14 Student Parking Permits - Undergrads

Undergraduate students who are eligible for parking may now pre-order their 2013-14 permit by using the on-line application at https://basweb.ucsc.edu/application2013/.

Forum addresses academic free speech and issues of anti-Semitism

An educational forum on academic free speech is scheduled for Thursday, May 23 at 7 p.m. at the Colleges Nine and Ten Multipurpose Room on the UC Santa Cruz campus. It is free and open to the public.

Puma capture demonstrates success of non-lethal intervention

The capture in downtown Santa Cruz and resettlement of a young male mountain lion is one of the first tests of a new state policy that calls for using non-lethal methods when mountain lions are discovered in populated areas.

Possible strike activity on May 21-22

Chancellor Blumenthal and EVC Galloway write to the campus, saying the UC system has been informed that strike activities are planned at UC Medical Centers and, possibly, on campuses on May 21-22.

Staff Appreciation Picnic & UC Walks – May 22 POSTPONED

Staff picnic postponed due to possible service interruptions.

PG&E rewards UCSC for “green” energy savings at BioMedical building

Pacific Gas & Electric teamed up with UC Santa Cruz to help design energy-efficient labs in the new BioMedical Building.

UCSC to be honored for eco-friendly improvements at Earth and Marine Sciences building

The California Higher Education Sustainability Conference will honor the campus next month with a 2013 Best Practice Award for improving energy efficiency at the Earth and Marine Sciences building on campus.

UCSC to host first annual Middle School Summit focusing on solving community challenges

UC Santa Cruz will pilot the first annual Middle School Summit on Tuesday, May 21, as part of the Santa Cruz County College Commitment--bringing up to 350 local students to the university campus.

Graduate Research Symposium awards recognize top presentations

Outstanding presentations at the Graduate Research Symposium were honored at the Awards Reception.

2013 Commencements and Graduation Celebrations

Commencements and other graduation celebrations for the Class of 2013 will begin on Thursday, June 13.

CruzAlert: Power has been restored to entire campus after major outage

A major power outage on campus began early in the morning of Sunday, May 12.

Sign-ups open for Community Supported Agriculture program

Membership signups are now open for the UCSC Farm’s 2013 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program from the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems.

Sharing a love of the outdoors

Staff member Kathy O'Hara Ferraro takes students on canoe and backpacking tours and also organizes an annual film festival that helps fund the Recreation Program and UCSC Wilderness Orientation scholarships.

Cultural Arts and Diversity Resource Center sponsors three events in May

UCSC's Cultural Arts and Diversity Resource Center is sponsoring three public events in the month of May, including a performance co-sponsored by the campus's Rainbow Theater.

Psychology grad wins research award typically given to graduate students

Lauren Brande, (Porter, '11, psychology) won a best abstract award May 3 at the annual meeting of the Western Psychological Association in Reno.

Psychology professor Phillip Hammack wins W.T. Grant Foundation grant

Phillip Hammack, UC Santa Cruz associate professor of psychology, is one of five young professors in the U.S. selected for five-year $350,000 research grants from the William T. Grant Scholars program.

After the breakup in a digital world: Purging social media memories

The era is long gone when a romantic breakup meant ripped-up photos and burned love letters. Digital photos and emails can be deleted but what about digital records of a beloved that lurk on Facebook, tumblr, and flicker?

Information on Retiree Health Benefit Changes

July 1, 2013 ushers in several changes to retiree benefits.

UCSC physicist Michael Nauenberg wins UC distinguished emeriti award

Michael Nauenberg, professor emeritus of physics at UC Santa Cruz, has been honored with the 2013 Constantine Panunzio Distinguished Emeriti Award.

Dietary flexibility may have helped large predators survive after last ice age

A study of mammoth steppe predators suggests dietary flexibility gave wolves and bears an edge over saber-toothed cats and cave lions.

Memorial Service for Larry Maxcy

A memorial service will be held May 28 for Larry Maxcy, former Assistant Dean of Natural Sciences

In Memoriam – Fredric Lieberman

It is with sadness and respect that we announce the loss of our colleague, friend, and mentor Fredric Lieberman, professor of music, who passed away on Saturday, May 4, 2013

Deer fawning season alert

Please be aware that spring is the prime birthing season for a wide variety of campus wildlife, including deer.

NASA scientist Chris McKay to discuss life on other planets in May 23 lecture

Annual Halliday Lecture addresses the latest findings from the Mars Curiosity Rover and the prospects for finding life on other planets

History professor Dana Frank to speak May 8 in Stevenson Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series

UCSC history professor and alumna Dana Frank (American Studies, ’78) will speak about human rights in Honduras on May 8 as part of the Stevenson College Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series.

Three ENVS graduate students receive NSF graduate research fellowships

Three Environmental Studies doctoral students have been awarded National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships for 2013.

CUCSA System-wide Staff Engagement Survey Forum

Please join the Staff Advisory Board, along with Council of UC Staff Assemblies (CUCSA) Chair, Steve Garber and Executive Director of System-wide Employee Relations, Joe Epperson, to learn about the UC system-wide and local campus results of the May 2012 staff engagement survey.

CASFS Apprenticeship program hosts premiere of 'Symphony of the Soil'

“Symphony of the Soil,” a feature film that depicts the complex and dynamic nature of this precious resource, will have its Santa Cruz premiere on Saturday, May 11th, 2013, at the Nickelodeon Theater.

UCSC to present student-run Community Arts Festival May 11

The UC Santa Cruz Good Neighbor Initiative Program will present a free Community Arts Festival at Abbott Square--outside the Museum of Art & History in downtown Santa Cruz--on Saturday, May 11, from 12 to 3 p.m.

26th annual Bike Week begins May 3

UCSC's Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has joined with Ecology Action to host the 26th Annual Santa Cruz County Bike Week, May 3 - 11, 2013. The Bike Week program aims to provide a safe, supportive and festive environment for local commuters to try traveling by bike.

Graduate students present research in annual symposium May 10

Graduate students from all five academic divisions at UCSC will present their research on Friday, May 10.

Staff Appreciation Picnic & UC Walks – May 22

We are excited to share that the Annual Staff Appreciation Picnic and UC Walks will both take place this year on May 22.

Informational Notice: UC Policy on Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

The UC Policy on Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (Policy) is being provided for a final informational notice to the University’s academic and staff employees.

So You Think When You Dance?

UCSC’s Ted Warburton will give the Arts Division’s 2013 Outstanding Faculty Research Lecture May 16, plus direct a faculty dance concert with guest Bay Area alumni and students, May 24-June 2.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

As we say goodbye to the month of April, I would like to remind you that April was sexual assault awareness month. As May begins, and following the news of the fabricated sexual assault on campus earlier this year, I would like to remind you that sexual assault, at UCSC and in other college campuses, is a prevalent and serious problem year-round. The following national statistics apply to college campuses.

Alumna Dana Priest updates security report in light of Boston bombings

Washington Post reporter Dana Priest (Merrill, '81, politics) has updated a television report on the national security industrial complex in light of the Boston Marathon bombings.

Scientists retrieve temperature data from Japan Trench observatory

Data recovered in an unprecedented series of operations will reveal frictional heat generated by fault slip during the Tohoku earthquake

34th annual Multicultural Festival takes place on campus on May 18

The 34th annual Multicultural Festival at UC Santa Cruz will take place on Saturday, May 18, with a day of rich cultural performances, food and music. The event, on the Oakes College Lower Lawn, will take place from noon to 6 p.m.

UCSC language students to present International Playhouse

UCSC will present International Playhouse XIII--an annual program of fully-staged short theater pieces by students in the Language Program May 16-19, featuring works in French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish, with English super-titles.

Astrophysics internships bring community college students to UCSC

The astrophysics program is reaching out to community college students through a new summer internship program.

UCSC's Talent Show debuts, showcases students' artistic flair

They made a Britney Spears song sound hip. They sent machetes flying, flung yo-yos, and danced fingers over the keys of a grand piano. On a recent Friday night in the Stevenson Event Center, 20 of UC Santa Cruz's most creative student performers came together for the premiere of UCSC's Talent Show.

In memoriam: Francis Clauser, former UCSC administrator

Francis Clauser, who served as a vice chancellor at UCSC in the 1960s, died on March 3, 2013, at age 99.

Interactive storytelling symposium on May 10 explores the future of games

The Interactive Storytelling Symposium will bring together experts from academia and the computer game industry to explore the future of games.

Two psychology graduate students win NSF research fellowships

Two UC Santa Cruz graduate students in the developmental psychology program have been awarded prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.

10th annual César Chávez Convocation at UCSC features Dolores Huerta

Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, will be the keynote speaker at the 10th Annual César Chávez Convocation at UCSC Tuesday, May 7 at the College Nine and Ten Multipurpose Room. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., program begins at 7:30 p.m.

Judge David Sotelo named Social Sciences distinguished alumni winner

When David Sotelo graduated from UC Santa Cruz in 1983 (Merrill, politics) he was older than most undergrads, married, and the father of two small boys. Today, Sotelo is a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge and winner of the 2013 Distinguished Social Sciences Alumni Award at UCSC.

Campus visits of finalists for vice chancellor of research

The search committee for the vice chancellor of research has identified two finalists who will be visiting campus in early May. I encourage you to make a note on your calendar and plan to attend.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz collaborates with Jewel Theatre for Pinter plays

UCSC’s Shakespeare Santa Cruz has joined forces with Santa Cruz’s Jewel Theatre Company to present two one-act plays by Harold Pinter, running April 25 through May 19, at the Center Stage in downtown Santa Cruz.

Our University - April 2013

Read the latest news for faculty and staff in the April issue of Our University.

Off-Campus Student Housing Workshops

Students, come learn important information about housing and living in the Santa Cruz community at any of the following workshops.

UCSC hosts symposium on stem cells and aging

Leading stem cell scientists from around the world will gather at UCSC May 30 and 31 for the Stem Cells and Aging Symposium.

Joseph Bunnett Research Organic Chemistry Lecture on Friday, May 3

Ken Houk of UCLA will give the Bunnett Research Organic Chemistry Lecture at UCSC on Friday, May 3

UCSC honored as a 'highest score' campus in new green-school rankings

UC Santa Cruz is one of 21 colleges to receive the highest possible score in Princeton Review's new rankings of environmentally friendly schools.

Staff Advisory Board Elections - 6 openings

It is time to choose your new or returning Staff Advisory Board members.

UCSC highly ranked in worldwide survey of research impact

UC Santa Cruz placed 11th on the annual Leiden Ranking, which measures the scientific performance of 500 major universities worldwide.

April 26 Forum on Online Education

The Academic Senate's Committee on Teaching, in collaboration with its Committee on Educational Policy, will host the third in a series of forums on online education on Friday, April 26.

UCSC Farm & Garden’s annual spring plant sale set for weekend of May 4, 5

Satisfy your green thumb at the UCSC Farm and Garden’s spring plant sale, featuring the region’s largest collection of organically grown herb and flower starts, vegetables, and perennials Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5.

In Memoriam – Alanna Nicole Cousins

We are saddened to learn of the death of Alanna Nicole Cousins, who died in an automobile accident Thursday, April 11

UCSC alumna wins prestigious 2013 Guggenheim

UCSC 1993 graduate Brenda Shaughnessy has been awarded a 2013 Guggenheim Fellowship for the creative arts in poetry. She returns to campus for Alumni Weekend events, including a free public reading on April 25.

Departure of University Librarian Virginia Steel

CP/EVC Alison Galloway announces that University Librarian Virginia Steel is leaving UCSC to join UCLA as their University Librarian.

Mathematics lecturer Richard Mitchell wins teaching award

Richard Mitchell, a lecturer in mathematics, has received an Excellence in Teaching Award from the Phi Beta Kappa Northern California Association.

Uncommon People / Rachel Wheat and Yiwei Wang: Crowdsourcing for research

Grad students turn to a crowdfunding website to fund their bald eagle research.

Uncommon People / Juan Ledesma: Persistence and faith

Juan Ledesma, the son of agriculture laborers, arrived in Santa Cruz from Hartnell Junior College with a $25,000 S-STEM scholarship from the National Science Foundation, and a love for physics and medicine.

Fall 2013 freshman class at UC Santa Cruz is one of the most selective

After receiving a record number 38,515 applications, UC Santa Cruz has offered admission to fewer than half of freshman applicants, making fall 2013 one of its most selective classes.

Distant blazar is a high-energy astrophysics puzzle

New observations of a blazar show that it is the most distant known source of very high-energy gamma rays.

New book explores relentless evolution in a constantly changing world

In his new book, biologist John Thompson argues that species must evolve constantly or they will not persist.

Puma tracking in Santa Cruz Mountains reveals impact of habitat fragmentation

In the first published results of more than three years of tracking mountain lions in the Santa Cruz Mountains, UC Santa Cruz researchers document how human development affects the predators' habits.

Cowell art exhibition blends Jewish, African American, Pacific Rim themes

The Eloise Pickard Smith Galleries at Cowell College will present In Her Place: Visual Narratives by Bonnie Stone, an exhibition opening April 26 and running through June 22 on the UCSC campus.

Gabe Zimmerman Room formally dedicated at U.S. Capitol ceremony

A conference room at the U.S. Capitol named for the late congressional staffer Gabriel Zimmerman (Stevenson, '02, sociology) was formally dedicated Tuesday (April 16) in a ceremony attended by Vice President Joe Biden, House Speaker John Boehner, and other political luminaries.

Digital Arts and New Media grad student exhibition opens April 27

Amplified CB radios, playable wrestling games about nutrition, and buildings that grow in the dark are just a few of the things you’ll encounter at “ground (ctrl)”—opening April 27 at UCSC’s Digital Arts Research Center (DARC building).

2013 Digital Arts and New Media MFA exhibition

The Digital Arts & New Media (DANM) MFA graduate program at UCSC is proud to present its 2013 exhibition, ground (ctrl).

Signs installed, cabin restored in Cowell Lime Works Historic District

Friends of the Cowell Lime Works Historic District celebrated installation of six new interpretive signs Friday and phase one of the restoration of one of the remaining lime workers cabins.

Ecologist Mark Carr to give Ricketts Memorial Lecture at sanctuary symposium

Marine ecologist Mark Carr will give the Ricketts Memorial Lecture at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary's annual symposium.

2013 Commencements & Celebrations

Commencement exercises for UCSC's Class of 2013 will be held on Friday through Sunday, June 14-16. A number of other celebrations, beginning June 13, are also planned to honor graduates.

Please participate in UCSC Storm Water Management Program Survey

The Campus Storm Water Management Program invites the campus community to participate in UCSC's annual Storm Water Survey.

Police Department to automate non-emergency phone calls

Members of the UCSC community and others who call the published non-emergency lines of the UC Santa Cruz Police Department will now be assisted by an automated attendant that will quickly get the caller to their correct destination, allowing staff and emergency center dispatchers to more efficiently handle calls for service.

Redesigned APO website

Thursday afternoon, April 11, 2013, the Academic Personnel Office’s (APO) redesigned website will be live.

New website for Academic Personnel Office

The Academic Personnel Office (APO) launched its redesigned website on Thursday, April 11, 2013.

Arts Division public event to help shape new Institute of Arts and Sciences

The UCSC Arts Division will present a day-long public event to help plan a groundbreaking new interdisciplinary Institute of the Arts and Sciences on Friday, April 26.

Second Gabe Zimmerman scholarship winner is sociology major

Carson Watts, an Oakes College sociology major and politics minor, has been selected as the second winner of the Gabriel Zimmerman Memorial Scholarship at UC Santa Cruz.

UCSC Arboretum holds annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 20

This year's spring plant sale will feature some of the newest treasures from the UCSC Arboretum.

Public Safety Alert for April 20

This notification is being provided to advise members of the campus community of the potential for disruptions and hazards associated with an unsanctioned gathering known as "4-20" during the afternoon of Saturday, April 20.

CO2 at work during last global 'hot spell' but hardly alone

UC Santa Cruz ocean sciences professor Christina Ravelo is part of an international team that is using ocean floor sediment samples to compile data on past periods of global warming in order to understand today's climate changes.

Chronicle editor to moderate senate discussion on online education April 26

The Academic Senate will host the third in a series of forums on online education later this month. The spring forum, “Online Education & UCSC: What's next?” will focus on the big questions surrounding online education.

SAB Call for Nominations - 5 openings

The nomination period for 2013-2014 Staff Advisory Board (SAB) members is now open.

Gopher control workshop set for Saturday, April 6 at UCSC Farm

Learn how to get gopher problems under control at a workshop Saturday, April 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the UC Santa Cruz Farm.

Domhoff's power structure research featured in urban affairs session

A plenary session is devoted to the groundbreaking research into urban power structures by UC Santa Cruz Distinguished Professor Emeritus and Research Professor of Sociology G. William Domhoff when the Urban Affairs Association holds its 43rd annual conference this week in San Francisco.

UCSC Spring Living Writers series kicks off April 4

Acclaimed up-and-coming writer Tupelo Hassman--author of the novel 'Girlchild'--will kick off the spring installment of UCSC’s Living Writers reading series, Thursday, April 4, at the Humanities Lecture Hall.

Registration begins April 9 for spring recreation and intramural activities

Spring quarter registration begins at 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 9 for for UCSC Recreation & Intramural Sports classes and activities.

Sea lion defies theory and keeps the beat

Scientists trained a sea lion to bob her head in time with rhythmic sounds, the first example of beat keeping in a non-human mammal.

New summer camp opens on campus for youngsters entering 1st– 5th grades

The UC Santa Cruz Office of Physical Education, Recreation and Sports announces the new Sammy Slug Summer Camp, a recreational summer program for boys and girls entering 1st through 5th grades.

Gary Young wins 2013 Lucille Medwick Memorial Award

UCSC humanities lecturer and alumnus Gary Young has received the 2013 Lucille Medwick Memorial Award from the Poetry Society of America (PSA) for best original poem on a humanitarian theme.

Energy storage symposium addresses important issues for renewable energy

UCSC Center for Sustainable Energy and Power Systems partners with Joint Venture Silicon Valley in April 11 symposium.

Engaging the Fall 2013 class

Please volunteer to join our intensive recruitment and yield effort for students from all backgrounds

In Memoriam — Juana Mosqueda

A treasured member of Dining Services, Juana Mosqueda, passed away on March 21. An employee of Dining Services since 2000, Juana would have been 59 on April 2.

Model UN competitor wins 'verbal acclamation' award

Kelsey Hill, a first-year history major affiliated with Kresge College, won a Verbal Acclamation Award at the UC Berkeley Model United Nations Conference held earlier this month in San Francisco.

Marine scientist Adina Paytan receives prestigious international award

IMS researcher Adina Paytan has been awarded the Excellence Award of the Werner Petersen Foundation.

UCSC and industry partners launch center for data storage research

The Center for Research in Storage Systems was established through NSF's Industry/University Cooperative Research Program.

Scholarship program wins archaeology society's president's award

UCSC professor Diane Gifford-Gonzalez's effort to create a scholarship fund for students from underrepresented groups has won the President's Recognition Award from the Society for American Archaeology.

Update on UC Tobacco-Free Policy

As you may know, University of California President Mark Yudof has directed all UC campuses to become tobacco-free no later than January 1, 2014.

UCSC to hold international conference on Sikh and Punjabi Studies, March 29-30

The UC Santa Cruz Sikh and Punjabi Studies program will present an international conference titled "(Re-)Building Punjab: Political Economy, Society and Values" on campus, March 29-30.

Staff forum recording now available

The audio recording of the Staff Advisory Board-sponsored Winter/Spring Staff Forum with Chancellor Blumenthal on March 20 is now available online at sab.ucsc.edu.

2013 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity Nominations Due April 1st

As a reminder, you are invited to submit nominations for the 2013 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity..

Computer History Museum honors UCSC computer scientist Harry Huskey

Harry D. Huskey, professor emeritus of computer science at UCSC, will receive the 2013 Fellow Award from the Computer History Museum.

UCSC workshop March 30 reveals the fine points of composting

Learn what it takes to make quality compost happen at the "Compost for the Home Garden and Orchard" workshop Saturday, March 30, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Alan Chadwick Garden on the UC Santa Cruz campus.

Baskin School of Engineering hosts meeting on women in technology

Members of the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) Pacesetters Program met at UCSC in February.

End-of-Quarter Stress

As the quarter draws to a close, it is not unusual for our students to feel some pressure or anxiety as they work on important assignments and take final exams.

Our University - March 2013

Our University — A new Onward California video series, Keck Observatory's 20th anniversary and more news for UC faculty and staff.

Physicist Sue Carter to lead APS energy research group

Physicist Sue Carter has been named chair elect of the American Physical Society's group on Energy Research and Applications.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz announces lineup for 2013 season

Shakespeare Santa Cruz will open with the popular comedy, "The Taming of the Shrew," and continue through Sept. 1 with "Henry V" and "Tom Jones." For the first time, all shows will take place outdoors among the redwoods in the Sinsheimer-Stanley Festival Glen.

Alumna Belle Yang contributes cover art to second issue of Catamaran

“Kite”--a 1997 painting by UC Santa Cruz alumna Belle Yang—is the featured art on the cover of the just released Spring 2013 issue of Catamaran Literary Reader.

Alumni Reunion Weekend on April 26-28

Come back and reconnect with fellow alumni during a fun and engaging weekend filled with many reunions, celebrations, and alumni parties. You can register and see a full schedule of events online. Linger, laugh, lose yourself—go to your happy place :)

Historic Hay Barn to be reinvented as environmental center

Thanks to a $5 million gift, the historic Cowell Ranch Hay Barn at UC Santa Cruz will be reinvented as the centerpiece of a revived campus entrance and new home for many of UCSC's innovative environmental sustainability programs.

Students' Safety Concerns

It has been a trying couple of weeks. We are grateful to see the UCSC community rally together out of concern stemming from the report of a very serious campus crime, as well as in response to a number of acts of other unimaginable violence in the greater Santa Cruz community.

Announcing 2013-2014 Student Union Assembly Officer Application Process

The time has come to elect our 2013-2014 student body officers.

Major gift will rebuild a campus landmark and bolster pioneering programs

In a message to the campus community, Chancellor Blumenthal announces that UCSC has received a $5 million gift that will transform the Cowell Ranch Hay Barn.

DNA study clarifies relationship between polar bears and brown bears

A new genetic study of polar bears and brown bears upends prevailing ideas about the evolutionary history of the two species.

Works by UCSC music professor to be featured at Smithsonian

Thousand Gates, a concert featuring two new works by UC Santa Cruz professor of music Hi Kyung Kim, is set to be performed at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., on April 7.

In Memoriam — Karina Hermosillo

A treasured member of UCSC's Student Health Services staff, Karina Hermosillo, has passed away. Karina, who had worked as a Medical Assistant in our center since November 2007, died unexpectedly on March 3. She was 27.

UCSC Cancer Genomics Hub wins 2013 Innovations in Networking Award

CGHub has been honored by CENIC with the 2013 Innovations in Networking Award for High-Performance Research Applications.

In Memoriam — Lucas Condit-Schultz

With great sadness we write to inform you that one of our students, Lucas Condit-Schultz, died over the weekend. Lucas, a Merrill junior and Politics major, was a recent transfer to UCSC who had deep family roots in the city of Santa Cruz and at UCSC itself.

UCSC ranked among top 10 graduate schools for game design

The graduate programs in game design at UC Santa Cruz were named among the top 10 in the nation by the Princeton Review.

International collaboration to investigate disappearing reptiles and amphibians

UCSC biologist Barry Sinervo leads NSF-funded project to study the effects of climate change on plants and animals around the world.

Winter/Spring Staff Forum with Chancellor Blumenthal

All UCSC staff are invited to the SAB-sponsored Winter/Spring Staff Forum with Chancellor Blumenthal on Wednesday, March 20, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at Stevenson Event Center.

A letter from Provost Aimée Dorr regarding tax checkoff for cancer research

Throughout the state and at all UC campuses, researchers are working on new ways to prevent, treat and cure cancer. As we approach the peak of the tax season, I wanted to share information on how you can support cancer research that serves all California communities.

Bacteria may protect against disease caused by stomach infection

Stomach microbes influence whether H. pylori infection causes disease, researchers find.

Student robotics competition on March 13 features Star Trek theme

Robotic "starships" built by UCSC engineering students will face off in a free public demonstration on Wednesday, March 13.

Spring 2013 Slug Shuttle Service

Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) is pleased to announce a new transit service designed to transport UCSC students from Quarry Plaza to two popular end-of-the-quarter destinations.

Restaurant worker advocate visits Santa Cruz for reading, book signing

Saru Jayaraman, author of Behind the Kitchen Door, will speak and sign copies of her book Thursday, March 21, 7-9 p.m. at the Live Oak Grange, 1900 17th Ave., Santa Cruz in an event co-sponsored by the UCSC Center for Labor Studies, Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, and Friends of the UCSC Farm and Garden.

Bats not bothered by forest fires, study finds

Scientists found that bats are resilient to high-severity fire, and some species may even benefit from the effects of fire on the landscape.

UCSC arts, humanities professors collaborate for ‘New Orleans Suite’

A new book by UCSC professors Lewis Watts (Art) and Eric Porter (History, American Studies) maps the changing cultural scene in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina hit the Crescent City in the summer of 2005.

12th annual Earth Summit branches out with workshops, displays, food

The 12th annual Earth Summit at UC Santa Cruz will take place Friday, March 8, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the College 9/10 Multipurpose Room. It is free and the public is invited.

UNESCO releases lecturer's book online as free download

State legislators, UCSC administrators talk budgets at legislative meeting

Voter approval of Proposition 30 in November gives UC Santa Cruz and the UC system a welcome respite to years of budget cuts but it is not a panacea, state legislators and university administrators agreed Friday.

UCSC night at the Santa Cruz Warriors draws enthusiastic crowd

Over 200 members of the UCSC community came out to support the Santa Cruz warriors this past Friday.

UCSC Swim Team honors at Conference Championships

Congratulations are in order for the UCSC Men's and Women's Swimming and Diving Team, who recently returned from the Pacific Collegiate Swim and Dive Conference Championships at the Splash Regional Aquatics Center

Google Version of UCSC Academic and Administrative Calendar

The Office of the Registrar is pleased to announce a UCSC Academic and Administrative Calendar offered though the UCSC Google Calendar application.

Bill Friedland's emeriti lecture focuses on California wine industry

UC Santa Cruz Professor Emeritus of Community Studies Bill Friedland will deliver a free public lecture "Trampling Out Advantage: the Political Economy of California Wine and Grapes" Monday, March 4th at 7 p.m. in the Music Recital Hall on the UCSC campus.

Budget forums next week

Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor Alison Galloway is hosting two budget forums next week for students, faculty, and staff.

Update on campus sexual assault

In a message to the campus community, EVC Allison Galloway said the alleged victim of a campus sexual assault has informed UCSC police that she staged the attack and fabricated the report to responding officers.

UCSC police conclude reported campus sexual assault did not occur

UCSC police have concluded that a sexual assault that was alleged to have occurred on campus 11 days ago did not take place.

UCSC alumna Kathy Sullivan named acting administrator for NOAA

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has appointed UCSC alumna Kathryn Sullivan to serve as acting administrator for NOAA.

Alumna killed in line of duty; info on memorial, support for families

Detective Elizabeth Butler (Kresge, '96, community studies), who was killed in the line of duty Tuesday, February 26, put her skills working with people into action on the streets of Santa Cruz. A memorial is set for March 7.

Tragedy in our community

The Santa Cruz Police Department suffered the tragic loss of two veteran officers yesterday, one of whom was a graduate of UC Santa Cruz.

UCSC student dies after sustaining serious injuries

I am extremely sorry to have to share the news with you that the campus has learned that a UCSC student, who was discovered below the pedestrian bridge near the Student Health Center this morning, died at Valley Medical Center.

Statement from UC Santa Cruz chancellor

George Blumenthal shared the following statement on Tuesday night after learning of the death of two City of Santa Cruz police officers earlier in the day.

Crime alert: Shooting near North Branciforte Avenue and Water Street

UCSC community reports record-breaking holiday season of giving

The UC Santa Cruz community stepped up once again to support those in need, with record-breaking donations to the Second Harvest Food Bank, the United Way of Santa Cruz County and the Student Volunteer Center’s Giving Tree program.

Coastal Commission funds projects at UCSC Arboretum and Seymour Center

The California Coastal Commission has awarded grants to fund two coastal restoration and education projects at UCSC.

UCSC arts alumnus wins Academy Award

UC Santa Cruz alumnus Rick Carter won an Oscar Sunday for production design on Steven Speilberg’s acclaimed film, Lincoln. This marks the second academy award for the former UCSC art major.

Bringing it back home: Scholarship Benefit Dinner celebrates 10 years of giving

Held on campus for the first time in five years, the Scholarship Benefit Dinner featured a rousing, Banana Slug-centric address by Kevin Beggs, president of Lionsgate Television Group, with hit shows including "Mad Men" and "Weeds."

2013 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity Call for Nominations

You are invited to submit nominations for the 2013 Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity.

2012-13 Excellence in Teaching Awards Nominations

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

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.

UCSC presents interactive, multi-venue production of Ibsen's epic masterpiece

Henrik Ibsen’s play "Peer Gynt" has been staged at theaters across the world since its premiere in 1876—as well as at an insane asylum in Iceland, in the Wild West, on a German boat, and in a Scottish pub.

Stellar motions in outer halo shed new light on Milky Way evolution

For the first time, astronomers have measured the sideways motions of stars in the outer halo of the Milky Way, yielding clues to our galaxy's remote past.

Community Message from SUA Chair

Message to students regarding recent violence.

Meet the UC Staff Advisors to the Regents

UCSC staff are invited to the SAB-sponsored “Staff Brown Bag” meeting with the UC Staff Advisors to the Regents on February 26, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in the Redwood Lounge at the Redwood Building located in Quarry Plaza near the Student Union.

Our University - February 2013

Read the latest news for UC faculty and staff in Our University.

Online education and our Coursera partnership

The announcement that UC Santa Cruz will begin to make selected courses available through Coursera's online platform marks another step forward in the campus's use of technology to expand the reach and impact of its faculty, said Chancellor Blumenthal and EVC Galloway.

Alison Galloway wins forensic anthropology career achievement award

Alison Galloway, professor of anthropology and campus provost/executive vice chancellor at UC Santa Cruz, is winner of the highest honor offered by the Physical Anthropology Section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Violence in our community

The safety of our students, staff, and faculty is our top priority. That's why we inform the campus community about violent incidents -- to empower everyone to take reasonable precautions and to aid investigations.

Community update: Message from Police Chief Oweis

In an update posted by UCSC's police chief, Nader Oweis provides additional information about the investigation and actions that are being undertaken to enhance support and safety for the community.

Award-winning UC Santa Cruz Model UN team to compete in San Francisco

The award-winning UC Santa Cruz Model UN team will compete against other regional college teams February 28-March 3, 2013, at the UC Berkeley Model UN Conference in San Francisco.

UCSC Linguistics professors receive $300,000 NSF grant

UCSC humanities professors Sandra Chung and Matthew Wagers have been awarded a $300,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to investigate language comprehension in the Mariana Islands.

Letter from President Yudof about employee salary increases

Over the last few months, many of you have been in touch with me regarding the possibility of systemwide salary increases for UC staff.

Crafting a way to help those less fortunate

After witnessing a tragic incident, UCSC student Radhika Mitra founded a nonprofit that aims to give artisans in developing countries the tools they need to be financially successful.

Student research project attracts European partners and NSF funding

Research on Mediterranean seagrass leads to international collaboration and a grant to extend students' findings.

"Science on Tap" aims to engage public in science

A new "science cafe" is starting up in Santa Cruz, designed to connect the Santa Cruz community to the latest research happening at UCSC.

Safe Disposal of Needles, Syringes and Medications

In an effort to protect our community and the environment, the UCSC Student Health Center Pharmacy provides for safe disposal of needles, syringes and medications.

Community Crime Alert: Police release sketch of suspect

Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to call the UC Santa Cruz Police Department at 831-459-2231.

Community Crime Alert

Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to call the UC Santa Cruz Police Department at 831-459-2231.

Historic legacy of lead pollution persists despite regulatory efforts

Efforts to reduce lead pollution have paid off in many ways, yet the problem persists and will probably continue to affect the health of people and animals well into the future.

Leadership change in University Relations

After more than seven years of service to the campus, Donna Murphy has announced her intention to step down this fall as vice chancellor of University Relations.

UCSC symposium to address issues of nutrition, health, and food policy

A symposium on nutrition, health, and, food policy is scheduled for Friday, March 8 from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. in 261 Social Sciences I on the UC Santa Cruz campus. The public is invited and admission is free.

Community Crime Bulletin

On February 13, 2013, at 7:30PM, the City of Santa Cruz Police Department reported that two masked men committed an armed robbery at the Food Bin located at 1130 Mission Street, Santa Cruz.

UCSC astrophysicist Charlie Conroy wins Sloan Research Fellowship

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has awarded a Sloan Research Fellowship to Charlie Conroy, assistant professor of astronomy and astrophysics.

Rare explosion may have created galaxy's youngest black hole

New data from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory suggest a highly distorted supernova remnant may contain the most recent black hole formed in the Milky Way galaxy.

Greetings from your Dean of Students

Message to students from Alma Sifuentes.

Winner of groundbreaking historic Gay Rights case to speak at UCSC

UCSC will present a lecture by Karen Thompson titled “Love is a Dangerous Promise” on Thursday, March 7, at 7 p.m., at the Second Stage Theater in the Performing Arts Center on the UCSC campus. Admission is free, and the public is invited.

Community Crime Alert: Police ask for help, issue safety tips

Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to call the City of Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit at (831) 420-5820 or the UC Santa Cruz Police Department at 831-459-2231.

Appointment of Jo Packham as Assistant Vice Chancellor, Staff Human Resources

Jo Packham has been appointed Assistant Vice Chancellor for Staff Human Resources.

Overcoming the odds: Student learned English by playing video games

The son of migrant workers, Juan Morales's path to UC Santa Cruz was anything but typical.

Proposed Staff Policy 84-Accommodations for Nursing Mothers

This proposed policy is part of the University of California’s commitment to support family care-giving responsibilities.

$2.5 million NIH grant supports research on retinal disease

A major grant from the National Eye Institute supports physicist Sasha Sher's research on how the retina heals itself after laser surgery.

Welcome visitors to campus this spring

With spring approaching, we’ll again see a number of visitors to the campus in March and April, many of whom will be our newly admitted frosh and transfer students, along with their families.

2013-2015 Staff Advisor to the Regents

The University is pleased to announce the application period for selection of the 2013-2015 Staff Advisor to the UC Board of Regents.

Israeli filmmaker to screen acclaimed documentary about famed architect

UCSC’s Film and Digital Media Department will present a free public screening of award-winning Israeli documentarian Duki Dror’s acclaimed film "Mendelsohn's Incessant Visions" on Feb. 25, followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker.

Red Cross Staff and Faculty Blood Drive February 19, 2013

The Staff Advisory Board is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive for staff and faculty on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at the Stevenson Event Center.

Changes to Main Entrance Kiosk functions and staffing

Beginning Monday, March 4, 2013, the function of the Main Entrance Kiosk will change on weekday afternoons.

Workshop offers basics of blueberry selection, planting, care Feb. 16

Liz Milazzo, field production manager at the UC Santa Cruz Farm, will lead “Growing Blueberries in the Home Garden" Saturday, February 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the UCSC Farm.

Karen Yamashita to read and lead talk about Asian American & Ethnic Studies

Award-winning author and UCSC literature professor Karen Yamashita will give a reading of excerpts from her work, followed by an informal conversation with guest professors Alondra Nelson (Columbia University) and Aimee Bahng (Dartmouth College).

Free docent training at the UCSC Farm & Garden begins March 12

A five-session docent training program begins Tuesday, March 12 at two of Santa Cruz’s most beautiful locations: the historic Alan Chadwick farm and UCSC Farm on the UC Santa Cruz campus.

Astronomer Sandra Faber honored in White House ceremony

President Barack Obama presented astronomer Sandra Faber with the National Medal of Science in a White House ceremony on Friday.

Students help local teens navigate the college admission process

The undergrad-led program UCAN aims to help high school students negotiate the sometimes tricky path to higher education.

Life after homelessness: Stephen Nelson to be honored at Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation

Formerly homeless, Nelson will be honored at the February 6 ceremony with the UCSC Tony Hill Award for his work ethic, communication skills, and strong sense of empathy.

Afternoon conversation with MLK Convocation speaker

Please join us for an afternoon conversation and student panel with Dr. Robert "Bob" P. Moses, founder of the Algebra Project, and the featured speaker at UC Santa Cruz's 2013 Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation.

Sociology alumnus named number two executive at International Crisis Group

Joost Hiltermann, who received his Ph.D. in sociology from UC Santa Cruz in 1988, has been named chief operating officer of the International Crisis Group based in Brussels.

Black History Month includes many events at UCSC

UCSC's African American Resource and Cultural Center is promoting a full schedule of activities planned for February, celebrated as Black History Month.

Formal Review: Proposed Environmental Health and Safety Policies

The University is committed to providing a healthy and safe working environment for all members of the campus community.

Gail Hershatter to deliver 47th annual UCSC Faculty Research Lecture

UC Santa Cruz professor of history Gail Hershatter will deliver the 47th annual UCSC Faculty Research Lecture on Tuesday, February 12, at 7 p.m. at the Music Recital Hall in the UCSC Performing Arts Complex.

Retirement Counseling Changes Effective February 1, 2013

UCSC is transferring responsibility for retirement counseling to the UC Retirement Administration Service Center (RASC).

Scientists collect first intact samples from an Antarctic subglacial lake

A research team including UCSC scientists successfully drilled through the Antarctic ice and sampled a subglacial lake.

2013-14 UC Santa Cruz Hellman Fellows Program

Call for applications for the UC Santa Cruz Hellman Fellows Program.

UCSC alums to perform at 12th annual SF Sketchfest comedy festival

Two UC Santa Cruz alumni-- Maya Rudolph (’95, Art) and Jesse Thorn (’03, American Studies)--will be featured performers at the 12th annual SF Sketchfest comedy festival, opening Jan. 24, and running through Feb. 10, at various venues throughout San Francisco.

Our University - January 2012

Read the latest news for faculty and staff in the January issue of Our University

Exhibition by internationally known environmental artists at Sesnon Gallery

In the mid 1990s, environmental artists Newton and Helen Harrison were asked by the Dalai Lama to create a work of art titled “Tibet is the Higher Ground.” That piece is just one sample of their work that will be on display at UCSC’s Sesnon Gallery, beginning February 6.

Scholarship Benefit Dinner February 23

Kevin Beggs, president of the television group that produces "Mad Men" and "Weeds," will speak at UCSC's 10th annual Scholarship Benefit Dinner, one of campus's premiere fundraising events.

Free screening of 'Doctors of the Dark Side' set for Jan. 30 at UCSC

A free screening of "Doctors of the Dark Side," the award-winning documentary that examines the critical role of psychologists and physicians in the torture of detainees in U.S. controlled military prisons, is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, January 30 at the Merrill Cultural Center, on the UC Santa Cruz campus.

UCSC agroecology expert to speak on genetically engineered crops Feb. 12

UC Santa Cruz environmental studies professor Deborah K. Letourneau will speak on “Genetically Engineered Crops and the Environment: Risky Business?” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 12, at the Red Restaurant and Bar in downtown Santa Cruz. It is free and open to the public.

Astronomer Mark Krumholz awarded AAS Warner Prize

Astronomer Mark Krumholz has been chosen to receive the 2013 Helen B. Warner Prize for Astronomy.

Chancellor Blumenthal comments on President Yudof's announcement

UCSC Chancellor George Blumenthal issued the following statement today following an announcement by UC President Mark Yudof that he would end his tenure in August.

UCSC sees sharp increase in undergraduate applications for fall

More than 46,000 prospective undergraduates – the most ever – have applied for admission to UC Santa Cruz for the fall 2013 quarter.

Screening of 'Harvest of Loneliness, the Bracero Program' set for January 23

The documentary film "Harvest of Loneliness, the Bracero Program" will be shown Wednesday, January 23 at 7 p.m. at the Kresge Town Hall on the UC Santa Cruz campus. It is free and open to the public.

Novel technique reveals dynamics of telomere DNA structure

New findings reveal structural properties of chromosome-capping telomeres, a potential target for anti-cancer drugs.

Legal strategies differ when labor rights and immigration policy conflict

In a new book, UC Santa Cruz professor Shannon Gleeson examines the paradox of federal labor rights enforcement and immigration policy and how the conflicts are dealt with in San Jose and Houston.

UCSC to host 3rd annual Peggy Downes Baskin Ethics Lecture, Jan. 31

The UC Santa Cruz Philosophy Department will host the third annual Peggy Downes Baskin Ethics Lecture on Thursday, Jan. 31. Jan Boxill to speak on “Using Sports as a Public Forum for Ethics”

U.S. team poised to begin drilling into subglacial lake in Antarctica

UCSC scientists are part of a team in Antarctica to investigate one of the last unexplored aquatic environments on Earth.

Faculty, staff, students asked to complete Community Survey

In a message to the campus community, Chancellor Blumenthal asks faculty, staff, and students to participate in the UCSC Community Survey.

Three-day workshop covers fruit tree care from planting to harvest

A 3-day workshop will give you the tools you need to successfully cultivate fruit trees on a backyard or small-orchard scale.

Popping the question is his job

In a survey of young people, researchers at UC Santa Cruz report that both women and men tend to hold traditional views when it comes to marriage proposals.

29th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Convocation

Please join your colleagues and our community for this inspiring event in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Arts faculty collaborate for ‘Guitar Fantasy’

UCSC music lecturers Mesut Özgen and William Coulter will present “Guitar Fantasy”--a special program of Spanish, Latin American, Celtic, Turkish, and Russian music—on Friday, January 25, at the UCSC Music Center Recital Hall.

6th annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival on Sunday, January 20

Enjoy chocolate of all types at the 6th annual Santa Cruz Chocolate Festival on Sunday, January 20, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cocoanut Grove on the Beach Boardwalk.

Where we stand on budget issues

Chancellor Blumenthal provides an update on the campus's budget situation.

Monk seal book wins AAAS/Subaru prize for young adult science book

A book about Hawaiian monk seals by marine biologist Terrie Williams has received a prize for excellence in science books.

Make a Resolution to Volunteer in 2013

Make it your New Year’s resolution to volunteer or intern this quarter.

OPERS Winter Recreation, Intramural and Sports Guide online now

UCSC OPERS is pleased to announce our Winter digital edition is now online.

Proposed UC Policy on Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect

The University invites your comments on the proposed systemwide Policy on Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect.

Music professor Linda Burman-Hall to receive Gail Rich Award

UC Santa Cruz professor of music Linda Burman-Hall will be one of six community members honored at the 17th annual Gail Rich Awards, Wednesday, January 23 at the Rio Theater in Santa Cruz.

Low extinction rates made California a refuge for diverse plant species

The remarkable diversity of California's plant life is largely the result of low extinction rates over the past 45 million years, scientists say.

Update on Election Season from the Office of External Affairs

Update on Election Season from the Office of External Affairs.

Educator, civil rights activist Bob Moses headlines MLK Jr. Convocation

Save Wednesday, February 6, at 7 p.m. for the 29th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Convocation. Featured speaker will be Bob Moses, a Harvard-trained educator and leader in the 1960s Civil Rights Movement who later founded the nationwide U.S. Algebra project.

10th Scholarship Benefit Dinner set for Saturday, February 23 at UCSC

UC Santa Cruz will host it's tenth annual Scholarship Benefit Dinner on February 23rd with guest speakers and noted alums Kevin Beggs, President, Lionsgate Television Group, and Edison Jensen, a local attorney dedicated to social justice. UCSC's Scholarship Benefit Dinner raises private gifts each year to support scholarships. Learn more.

Lacey Raak appointed UCSC’s Director of Sustainability

Lacey Raak has been appointed UCSC’s Director of Sustainability.

Apply to be the next Student Regent

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.

Appointment of Pat Goff as New Director for Environmental Health & Safety

Pat Goff has been appointed to the position of Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S).

Update of Candidate Finalists’ On-Campus Visits for Assistant Vice Chancellor, Staff Human Resources

There will be three finalist candidates for the position of Assistant Vice Chancellor (AVC) for Staff Human Resources (SHR) who will be visiting campus in the coming weeks.

Slug into action with CruzFit 2013

UCSC Wellness kicks off its CruzFit Team Challenge on January 14.

Memorial for Don Rothman planned for Saturday, January 26

A memorial for Don Rothman, a leading voice for writers and writing during a distinguished 39-year career at UC Santa Cruz, will take place on January 26.