Staff News

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Nominations for UCSC's Outstanding Staff Award

Make your nomination for the UCSC Outstanding Staff Award today.

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.

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.'

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"

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

UCSC coastal experts testify at Assembly committee hearing

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

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.

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:

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

Beware of Scams

With the beginning of the academic year, the Police Department and Information Technology Services want to take this opportunity to remind you to beware of scams.

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.

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:

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 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.

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.

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

2014 UC Medical Plans

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

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/.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'Science Notes 2013' now available online

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

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

UCSC establishes Department of Technology Management

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

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.

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."

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

New child-study room a bridge to research and teaching

The Early Childhood Education Center was able to remodel its observation room as part of a $165,000 grant from the Claire Giannini Fund, allowing advanced developmental psychology students a place to practice scientific observation.

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.

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.

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.

Geothermal power facility induces earthquakes, study finds

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

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.

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.

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.

Cover coup

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Economist's new book reveals underpinnings of economic disasters

In a newly revised book, UC Santa Cruz economist Daniel Friedman argues that aligning morals and markets so they work together is the premier challenge of our world today.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

2013 Commencements and Graduation Celebrations

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Elaine Kihara: Immeasurable dedication toward students

Oakes College academic preceptor named 2013 recipient of Outstanding Staff Award

Wilderness on the edge of town: Younger Lagoon a 'living lab' for students

Younger Lagoon Reserve is a postage-stamp-sized parcel of wilderness. Students sharpen their minds while they get their hands dirty: learning, researching, and making a difference too.

Our University - April 2013

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

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.

Staff Advisory Board Elections - 6 openings

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

It's a Slug's life

Students have created activities ranging from mock trial to tango—gaining social outlets while learning valuable life lessons as part of a vibrant campus community.

Working hand in hand

Every year, hundreds of UCSC student interns and volunteers do important work in the community that surrounds them.

Engineering opportunities

Senior engineering students create design projects to address real-world problems—some with sponsorships from high-profile companies.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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..

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Slug Stand-Up lets students express themselves through comedy

The four members of UCSC's Slug Stand-Up comedy squad bare their souls while trying to keep stage-fright in check, but they say everything is worth it just to make people laugh.

The Rosa Parks African American Theme House: Discovering similarities, embracing differences

Students from diverse backgrounds learn about struggles of race, gender, and class while becoming a family to each other.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

UCSC places in top 20 on Peace Corps’ volunteer list

UC Santa Cruz is tied for fifth place among California universities and in the top 20 nationally for the most Peace Corps volunteers in 2013, according to the Peace Corps' annual ranking of top volunteer-producing colleges.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.