All Activity Areas

New UC policy on the Clery Act and Campus Safety and Security Reporting

The University of California Office of the President has issued the Clery Act Policy - Campus Safety and Security Reporting following a system-wide review in fall 2017.

Beyond Compliance initiatives for 2018

As the campus community heads off for winter break, we would like to take the opportunity to write with an update on our Beyond Compliance initiatives and to outline how you can get involved in our work.

Strategic academic planning update

At this stage, we are working diligently to pinpoint, with your help and guidance, the major cultural values and academic themes that make UC Santa Cruz so remarkable.

Campus hires director for athletics, OPERS

Following a nationwide search, UC Santa Cruz has hired Susan Harriman to serve as the director of athletics and the Office of Physical Education, Recreation, and Sports.

Tom Killion: A life in color

Alumnus Tom Killion, whose intricate woodcut prints have captured scenes of rugged beauty for decades, brings his traveling exhibit to the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History in January.

Campus hires new director for athletics, OPERS

Susan Harriman, Bates College's assistant athletic director and senior woman administrator, will start Jan. 15 as our new director for our intercollegiate athletics program and for the Office of Physical Education, Recreation, and Sports.

Osterbrock Leadership Program awards mini-grants to six astronomy grad students

The Osterbrock Leadership Program provides experiences and opportunities for astronomy graduate students to develop leadership and management skills.

In Memoriam: Marvin Greenberg (1935–2017)

Marvin J. Greenberg, professor emeritus of mathematics, passed away on December 12 in Berkeley. He was 81.

UC Santa Cruz marks gains in transfer, frosh applications

High school seniors and transfer students showed record interest in UC Santa Cruz with the campus receiving more than 67,000 applications for fall 2018.

Cowell Ranch Hay Barn recognized by architects

The Cowell Ranch Hay Barn has received recognition from the East Bay chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

Two UCSC biologists receive Howard Hughes Medical Institute Professor awards

Biology professors Beth Shapiro and Erika Zavaleta won HHMI funding for their innovative science education proposals.

Formal review/campus community comment for the open access for theses and dissertations policy.

The UC Office of the President invites comments on a proposed Presidential Policy on Open Access for Theses and Dissertations.

East Remote parking lot graffiti

Over the weekend, the Chancellor’s Office and the Hate Bias Response Program received reports of a white swastika spray-painted on the concrete near the East Remote Lot. Regrettably, anti-Semitic graffiti continues to be posted in different campus areas.

UC Santa Cruz students tackle poverty and income inequality

Each year, undergraduate and graduate student scholars of the Blum Center on Poverty, Social Enterprise, and Participatory Governance take a deep dive into a wide range of issues related to fiscal equity, affordable housing, and food insecurity as they build the skills they will need to help build a more equitable society.

Physicist Tesla Jeltema probes the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy

Jeltema has a leading role in the Dark Energy Survey, a major international collaboration that is gathering precise measurements of the evolution of cosmic structure.

Heart monitors on wild narwhals reveal alarming responses to stress

As sea ice melts, new findings add to concerns about the effects of ocean noise and increased human activity on deep-diving Arctic whales.

'A Celtic Christmas' features music lecturer and arts alumnus William Coulter

For the past two decades, Tomaseen Foley’s 'A Celtic Christmas' has toured the country, offering a staging of a night before Christmas at a remote farmhouse in the west of Ireland during the 1940s and 50s. The show’s music director is award-winning guitarist William Coulter, who has been performing and recording traditional music for nearly 25 years.

Supporting those affected by the fires in the Los Angeles area

We urge anyone in our campus community impacted by these fires to reach out for support.

Boating center wins best-in-show at harbor's Lighted Boat Parade

The UC Santa Cruz Community Boating Center sailed away with the coveted best-in-show award at the 32nd annual Lighted Boat Parade held at the Santa Cruz Small Craft Harbor Saturday, Dec. 2.

Study finds variation within species is a critical aspect of biodiversity

Researchers compared the ecological consequences of variation within species and among species, and found similar effects in many cases.

Merrill College namesake Charles E. Merrill Jr. dies at age 97

A philanthropist, artist, and writer, Charles E. Merrill Jr. facilitated the founding gift to UC Santa Cruz’s fourth college.

Make your voice heard on tax plan

As you have probably heard, both houses of Congress have now passed tax reform bills that are very harmful to universities and their students.

State innovation funds supported hundreds of startups

With its share of AB 2664 funding, UC Santa Cruz developed a multifaceted innovation and entrepreneurship program.

Strategic academic planning update

Strategic academic planning faculty open forum

The strategic academic planning process aims to identify, and then highlight and energize, academic areas that will strengthen the university, as a whole, and allow us to build stronger programs for students, create new research opportunities for faculty, and heighten our global impact.

UC Santa Cruz scientists and engineers among the most highly cited researchers

A list of the world's most highly cited researchers includes 16 scientists and engineers at UC Santa Cruz.

Holiday Open House

Chancellor George Blumenthal and his wife, Professor Kelly Weisberg, invite faculty, staff, and friends to join together for a special holiday gathering on Friday, December 15.

Global SPHERE Network promotes research opportunities for high school students

A coalition of top U.S. educational institutions has launched a mentor network and online database to increase access to STEM research opportunities for high school students.

Science comes alive with 'A Seal Named Patches'

A new children’s book by a pair of alumni scientists is making a splash.

Big data for social good: Tri-county initiative will benefit K-12 students

Rod Ogawa and Rebecca London are helping launch a data-sharing initiative that will benefit K-12 students in Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz counties.

A horse is a horse, of course, of course—except when it isn’t

An analysis of ancient DNA has revealed a previously unrecognized genus of extinct horses that once roamed North America.

Researchers seek clues to tropical biodiversity in study of spiral gingers

Biologist Kathleen Kay leads an investigation into the origins of plant diversity in the tropics with funding from the National Science Foundation.

Central Coast community college students urged to chart course to UC

Higher education leaders told a room full of community college students that a University of California education is accessible and affordable for transfer students.

Troubling tax reform

By Tyrus Miller, Vice Provost, Dean of Graduate Studies — Legislation speeding through Congress would spell trouble for public higher education.

2017 UCSC Holiday Food Drive

The UCSC holiday food drive works in cooperation with Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County providing healthy meals to our friends and neighbors in need.

New, improved campus maps available

Invitation to an interactive Long-Range Development Plan Staff Forum

Please join us for one of two brown bag interactive Long-Range Development Plan (LRDP) Staff Forums.

TRACTION art talk to feature influential British filmmaker and installation artist Isaac Julien

TRACTION: Art Talks, a new artist lecture series launched this fall by the UC Santa Cruz Institute of the Arts and Sciences, continues on November 28 with influential British filmmaker, photographer, and installation artist Isaac Julien.

Video tags reveal surprising details of blue whale feeding behavior

Like most vertebrates, blue whales tend to be 'right-handed,' but they roll to the left when attacking from below to feed on patches of krill near the surface.

Physicist Terry Schalk elected 2017 AAAS Fellow

Terry Schalk, adjunct professor emeritus of physics, has been awarded the distinction of AAAS Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Giving Back this Holiday Season

Help the Student Volunteer Center (SVC) give back to the community by participating in their annual Giving Drive, happening from now until December 1st.

Cross country team finishes season with championship appearance

UC Santa Cruz’s cross country team wrapped up a banner racing season over the weekend as the men's team placed 26th at the NCAA Division III National Championships.

UPDATE --Arson at Oakes College (Case 17-1123, 17-1177,17-1197 and 17-1201)

Last night, the UC Santa Cruz Police Department received information about another Oakes College arson (17-1201) involving the burning of a poster/flier that occurred on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 16, on the third floor of F building (Hong-Lim).

Arson at Oakes College  (Case 17-1123, 17-1177, and 17-1197)

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department needs the community’s assistance in identifying who is responsible for intentionally setting fire to posters and fliers posted on the residential hall walls or bulletin boards on the second floor of Oakes College, G Building (Wiesel House).

Passenger pigeon genome shows effects of natural selection in a huge population

A new analysis of DNA recovered from museum specimens explains the surprisingly low genetic diversity of the passenger pigeon population.

Tackling challenges on the way to a national championship

UC Santa Cruz’s men’s rugby team looks forward to a promising 50th season

Andrew W. Mellon Foundation grant supports $1.5 million project expanding humanities impact

A $1.5 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is now supporting a new five-year project at UC Santa Cruz. It includes a two-part humanities initiative that is designed to support doctoral student success for students from diverse backgrounds, and to expand the impact of the campus’s public humanities “Questions That Matter” outreach program.

Pluto's hydrocarbon haze keeps dwarf planet colder than expected

A new analysis of Pluto's atmosphere explains why the New Horizons spacecraft measured temperatures much colder than predicted.

Study reveals structure and origins of glacial polish on Yosemite's rocks

Glaciers left smooth shiny surfaces on many of the rock formations in Yosemite, and geologists now understand how this 'glacial polish' formed.

4th Annual Harvest Dinner

As we approach the holiday season, the Dean of Students Office in collaboration with UC Santa Cruz Dining, is pleased to announce the 4th Annual Harvest Dinner.

Astronomer Xavier Prochaska receives Outstanding Faculty Award

J. Xavier Prochaska, professor of astronomy and astrophysics, has received the 2016-17 Outstanding Faculty Award from the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences.

Campus launches strategic academic planning process

We are launching a strategic academic planning process for UC Santa Cruz.

History alumna pushes back against taboo on talking about death

History alumna Morgan Brown’s life changed drastically shortly after she graduated from UC Santa Cruz in 2012 with a B.A. in history. Her mother was killed by a commercial truck driver who swerved into her lane and hit her car in a head-on collision.

Bioinformatics leaders partner to build platform for NIH Data Commons

The UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of Chicago, and the Broad Institute will create the Commons Alliance Platform with funding from the National Institutes of Health.

Campus seeks feedback on environmental review of Student Housing West

People can learn more about the project and submit feedback during an information and scoping session from 6–8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29 at Oakes College's Academic Building, Classroom 105.

Student-run hackathon scheduled for January 19-21 at UC Santa Cruz

CruzHacks 2018 is seeking sponsors to support the popular technology development event.

Solar greenhouses generate electricity and grow crops at the same time, UC Santa Cruz study reveals

The first crops of tomatoes and cucumbers grown inside electricity-generating solar greenhouses were as healthy as those raised in conventional greenhouses, signaling that "smart" greenhouses hold great promise for dual-use farming and renewable electricity production.

A sound artist, sociologist, evolutionary biologist, and two art curators walk into a room…

UC Santa Cruz’s Institute of the Arts and Sciences will resume its popular series of LASER talks this fall on campus, Tuesday, November 14, at 7 p.m. in the Digital Arts Research Center.

Scientists identify hotspots of coastal risks in Latin America and the Caribbean

500,000 people are at high risk from coastal hazards, according to a new study by researchers at UC Santa Cruz and the University of Cantabria, Spain.

Upcoming prescribed burns at UC Santa Cruz

The first prescribed burn is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 7, pending weather conditions. Additionally, a prescribed burn in Wilder Ranch State Park is scheduled for Tuesday and may occur over several days.

A month of generosity

Fall Into Philanthropy is a month-long funding drive that puts the spotlight on UC Santa Cruz programs that bolster research, endowment funds and student scholarships, while fostering a culture of giving.

New book reveals role of U.S. corporate elites in school privatization, foreign policy, agribusiness, banking reform

Bill Domhoff's new book, Studying the Power Elite: Fifty Years of Who Rules America?, presents a new, detailed analysis of the interplay of corporate elites on contemporary topics, including the privatization of public schools, foreign policy, agribusiness, and banking reform.

ENVS prof Elliott Campbell receives global environmental change award

Elliott Campbell, associate professor of environmental studies, will receive a 2017 Global Environmental Change Early Career Award from the American Geophysical Union during its December meeting in New Orleans.

New center, fellows renew commitment to teaching

Twenty-two faculty fellows are supported by the new Center for Innovations in Teaching and Learning (CITL), which was established in July 2016 to revitalize the university's longstanding commitment to outstanding teaching.

MCD Biology launches undergraduate biomedical research initiative

Biology professor Jeremy Sanford is taking a bold new approach to the undergraduate biology lab experience.

Progress made on Student Housing West

By Sarah Latham, Vice Chancellor, Business and Administrative Services — We have selected Capstone Development Partners as our preferred developer to deliver the project, and they have been working alongside UC Santa Cruz team members in developing building siting, density and program adjacencies.

Diverse students, diverse experiences

By Richard Hughey, Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Education and Interim Vice Provost for Global Engagement — In a time of increased insularity around the world, how does UC Santa Cruz broaden student—and faculty—interaction with ideas and views from around the state, country, and globe?

Construction starting on new environmental health and safety facility

The nearly $20 million Environmental Health and Safety Facility—funded by the state through the UC Office of the President—will help ensure the campus continues to comply with state and federal regulations.

Augmented reality showcases transportation options

The Visualizing Sustainable Transportation project from the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission offers residents a chance to view potential transportation options through augmented reality.

Talk with the architect: Cowell Ranch Hay Barn

On Wednesday evening, November 8, architect, UC Santa Cruz alumnus and Professor Emeritus of architecture Richard Fernau will speak about his office’s renovation/reinvention of the Cowell Ranch Hay Barn.

UC Santa Cruz ranks in top 50 of global research universities, 5th for space sciences

UC Santa Cruz ranks fifth in the world for space sciences and is one of six University of California campuses ranked among the top 50 research universities overall, according to a study by U.S. News and World Report.

Five-day Pacific Rim Music Festival to feature historic collaboration with Korean performing artists

A dazzling array of traditional and contemporary Korean music will be performed at the 2017 Pacific Rim Music Festival, October 25-29, on the UC Santa Cruz campus.

Geologist Gary Griggs publishes two new books on coastal issues

'The Edge' focuses on California’s unique coastline, while 'Coasts in Crisis' offers a global perspective on the issues facing coastal regions throughout the world.

Halloween, October 31st and days prior

On behalf of the university and the City of Santa Cruz, I encourage you to avoid downtown Santa Cruz on Halloween night and instead choose to be on campus in order to participate in one or more of the many programs offered throughout our college and residential communities.

Open Enrollment 2018

The annual Open Enrollment (OE) period begins today (Thursday, October. 26) at 8:00 a.m., and ends at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November. 21.

UC Santa Cruz to host ‘Freedom, Justice, Difference: The Merchant of Venice Now’ at museum

Since it was first performed in 1605, The Merchant of Venice, has been one of Shakespeare’s most controversial works. For the past 400 years, a debate has raged among critics and scholars over whether or not it is anti-Semitic.

Want to save 41 percent of the planet’s highly threatened vertebrates? Work on islands

A new study has mapped the world’s most vulnerable island species and identified invasive species as a key threat to their survival.

Social Sciences Dean Katharyne Mitchell steps in to leadership, asks others to step up, too

Two months into her new job, Social Sciences Dean Katharyne Mitchell has brought energy, focus, and vision to the division.

Open forums on Student Housing West project

UC Santa Cruz will host two open forums on Student Housing West, a new housing development project that will offer more opportunities for students to live on campus.

On-campus photography contest

The Chancellor’s Office and University Relations are sponsoring a contest to choose a photograph of UC Santa Cruz for Chancellor Blumenthal’s winter holiday card.

Physicist Michael Dine wins Sakurai Prize for Theoretical Physics

A UC Santa Cruz physicist has won the Sakurai Prize for the second year in a row.

UC Board of Regents chair visits to connect with campus community

As Board of Regents chair, George Kieffer's goals include focusing on the quality of undergraduate education, examining the costs of higher education, preserving the university’s historic excellence in teaching, research and public service, and continuing to expand access to more and diverse Californians.

Hay Barn receives preservation design award

The Cowell Lime Works Hay Barn has won a 2017 Preservation Design Award from the California Preservation Foundation.

Statement on incident in library

I was disheartened to see the video of three students at McHenry Library on Sunday demanding that another group of students who might hold different political opinions leave the building, but I commend university staff for their handling of the situation

Fire along Highway 1 near Western Drive

Fire crews are working to extinguish a fire along Highway 1, near Western Drive.

Local cancer charity group funds four cancer researchers at UC Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group has given more than $450,000 in grants to the campus since 2005.

Cross country bolstered by new faces

Bolstered by a crop of fresh faces who have already made an impact in the early season, the Banana Slugs returned a core group from last year’s squad, which placed seventh at the NCAA West Regionals.

Award-winning poet Dorianne Laux to read at 8th annual Morton Marcus memorial event

Award-winning American poet Dorianne Laux will be the featured guest at the eighth annual Morton Marcus Poetry Reading, Thursday, November 16, at 5:30 p.m. in the Humanities Lecture Hall at Cowell College.

‘Where Have All the Leaders Gone?’

The Center for Cultural Studies and the Institute for Humanities Research will present "Where Have All the Leaders Gone?"--a guest lecture by Duke University professor and author Michael Hardt--on Friday, October 27, at Kresge Town Hall.

'Science Notes 2017' now available online

Science Notes 2017, the illustrated online magazine published annually by the UC Santa Cruz Science Communication Program, is available online.

European migrant crisis influenced by faith groups pursuing 'alternative justice'

Churches and other faith-based organizations are playing a distinctive role in the European migrant crisis, according to geographer Katharyne Mitchell.

The 2017-2018 Campus Food & Garden Guide is now available

Students who want to get involved in sustainable food systems will find all the options at their fingertips in the new 48-page 2017-18 Campus Food & Garden Guide.

Investments in Beginning Farmer Training Paying Off

A new report explores the impact of a unique beginning-farmer training program.

Retiree health benefits

To preserve the retiree health-benefits program for current and future retirees, UC must evaluate options to manage costs.

Understanding the coevolving web of life as a network

A new study exploring how mutualistic species coevolve suggests rapid environmental change can destabilize networks of interacting species.

Updates on fire in Santa Cruz Mountains

The UC Santa Cruz Office of Emergency Services (OES) is monitoring the fire in the Santa Cruz Mountains and will provide updates on the campus homepage as appropriate.

Campus review of the draft Crime Awareness and Campus Security (CLERY Act) policy

The Office of the President invites comments on a proposed new policy for Crime Awareness and Campus Security (Clery Act).

Changes announced to UC travel policy

UC President Janet Napolitano has approved changes to the UC Travel Policy (UC BFB G-28 "Travel Regulations"), effective Oct. 15, 2017. The major changes apply to travel of less than 30 days within the continental United States.

Great Shakeout CruzAlert exercise

Millions of people worldwide will practice how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On at 10:19 a.m. on October 19 during Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills.

First observations of merging neutron stars mark a new era in astronomy

A UC Santa Cruz team made the first ever observations of a visible event linked to the detection of gravitational waves, using the small Swope Telescope in Chile.

Astronomer Alexie Leauthaud wins prestigious Packard Fellowship

Leauthaud is the 13th UCSC faculty member, and sixth UCSC astronomer, to receive a Packard Fellowship.

Migration, climate, housing among the topics featured during fifth annual UC Santa Cruz Research Frontiers Evening Oct. 26

Six UC Santa Cruz researchers who are tackling "key issues of the 21st century" will be featured during the fifth annual Division of Social Sciences Research Frontiers Evening on October 26.

SAB Fall Chancellor Forum

All UCSC staff are invited to the SAB sponsored Fall Staff Forum with Chancellor Blumenthal on Thursday, November 2nd from 12pm to 1:30pm in the Kresge Town Hall.

I ❤ UCSC Week to further Slug pride

In an effort to unite the student body and spark Slug pride, I ❤ UCSC Week will host a variety of events on campus starting on Oct. 16.

$10.5 million education grant will help UC Santa Cruz prepare students for college

The Educational Partnership Center's “Paving a Path for a College-Going Generation” project plans to serve 1,930 at-risk, underrepresented students in the predominantly agricultural towns of Gonzales, Greenfield, Soledad, and King City.

UC Santa Cruz earns award for social mobility innovation

The honor, awarded to five universities across the nation, was presented in June at the annual CollegeNet conference, called the Social Mobility Summit.

Celebrating our faculty chairs

Next week we will be celebrating the academic excellence of UC Santa Cruz with our inaugural Convocation of Chairs.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen to speak at UC Santa Cruz on Oct. 19

On October 11, the MacArthur Foundation awarded Viet Thanh Nguyen a 2017 MacArthur Fellowship for his work as a fiction writer and cultural critic, citing his contributions to “challenging popular depictions of the Vietnam War and exploring the myriad ways that war lives on for those it has displaced.”

Five research labs receive lab safety recognition awards

In recognition of outstanding success in developing and maintaining a safe and effective laboratory environment, the Office of Research and Environmental Health & Safety are pleased to announce the 2016-17 Lab Safety Recognition awards.

Paleogenomic analysis sheds light on Easter Island mysteries

New paleogenomic research conducted by an international team led by UC Santa Cruz sheds light on the early inhabitants of Easter Island.

Poor air quality

In close consultation with Student Health Center, we advise limiting physical activity outside and keeping building windows closed.

UC Santa Cruz to dedicate new Coastal Biology building on October 21

The newest building on UCSC's vibrant Coastal Science Campus is now home to the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

Social Sciences honors outstanding staff, teaching, research

The Division of Social Sciences at UC Santa Cruz presented four major awards today (Wednesday, October 11), recognizing outstanding accomplishments by faculty, staff, researchers, and emeriti faculty.

The tragedy in Las Vegas

On behalf of UC Santa Cruz, we extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to all those affected by the horrific mass shooting in Las Vegas.

New neurocognitive theory of dreaming links dreams to mind-wandering

In his new book, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Psychology Bill Domhoff presents an integrated neurocognitive theory of dreams that is grounded in the similarities between dreaming and drifting waking thought.

Earthquake drill, CruzAlert planned for Thursday, Oct. 19

All UC Santa Cruz CruzAlert registrants will receive a CruzAlert notification at 10:19 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 19 as part of earthquake preparedness for the Great Shakeout.

Nearly 70 percent experience "rent burden" in Santa Cruz County, according to UC Santa Cruz survey results

Nearly 70 percent of renters surveyed in Santa Cruz County experience "rent burden," defined as spending more than 30 percent of their income on rent and utilities, according to preliminary results of a survey of 1,700 renters across the county conducted by UC Santa Cruz.

Supporting those affected by the North Bay fires

We encourage anyone in our campus community impacted by these fires to reach out for support.

Fall Living Writers Series explores histories of war, refuge and social justice

"Beyond the Wall: War, Refuge, and Home" is the name of this fall’s installment of the Living Writers Series at UC Santa Cruz. Curated by the campus’s award-winning author and literature professor Karen Tei Yamashita, the series runs through December 7 at the Humanities Lecture Hall.

Potentially dangerous beach conditions through Saturday evening

The National Weather Service is warning of hazardous conditions at area beaches through at least Saturday evening. Use caution when at the beach. The hazards include large shore break, strong rip currents, and possible sneaker waves.

Seasonal flu vaccine clinics scheduled on campus

Seasonal flu vaccines 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.

Chancellor to tell students UC education is attainable, affordable

As part of Achieve UC, Chancellor George Blumenthal will speak to approximately 300 Pajaro Valley High School students about pursuing higher education.

Campus review of the draft Field Research Safety Policy OR-0001

The Office of Research is proposing a new policy that addresses research safety in the field.

Sound Designer and UCSC Alum Ren Klyce Makes All the Right Noises

With five Oscar nominations for film sound editing and mixing, UC Santa Cruz alumnus Ren Klyce’s career has taken a sky-rocket climb since he decided to major in music back in 1983.

UC Santa Cruz Summer Session wins awards

UC Santa Cruz Summer Session recently won four awards at the 2017 Western Association of Summer Session Administrators (WASSA) conference held in Golden, Colo.

Winter campus curtailment 2017-2018

Our 2017-2018 Winter Campus Curtailment is scheduled for Saturday, December 23, 2017 through Monday, January 1, 2018.

UC Santa Cruz, community colleges seek to strengthen ties

A meeting with California higher education leaders has led to seven strategies to further strengthen ties between UC Santa Cruz and community colleges.

Games and Playable Media faculty to discuss future trends at IndieCade Festival

SceneSampler, a game from UCSC's Social Emotional Technology Lab, is an official game selection to be demonstrated at the international festival of independent games.

Campus fire safety

With the current dry conditions, the threat of fire on our campus is very high and potentially devastating.

UC Santa Cruz raises more than $335 million from 63,064 donors

In the coming weeks, the campus will celebrate the success of the campaign, which concluded six months ahead of schedule and exceeded its initial goal of raising $300 million.

Checking in or checking out? Millennials go online to build their offline lives

As the most tech-savvy and connected generation begins college this year, Assistant Professor of Psychology Adriana Manago says they are technological trailblazers rather than passive consumers.

Gail Project exhibition studies military occupation of Okinawa through a photographic lens

Now in its fourth year at UC Santa Cruz, The Gail Project was inspired by a collection of photographs taken in 1952 by American Army Captain, Charles Eugene Gail. "The Gail Project: An Okinawan-American Dialogue" opens on campus October 5 at the Mary Porter Sesnon Gallery.

Required state and federal notices

The University of California, Santa Cruz, is committed to assisting all members of the community in providing for their safety and security. In compliance with a federal law known as the Jeanne Clery Act, the Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report for 2016 (PDF) is online and also included as an attachment.

New series of organic grower guides available from CASFS

A new series of technical guides developed at UC Santa Cruz targets small- and medium-scale organic specialty crop growers with the production information they need to be successful.

Affirming our values

To encourage everyone to play a role in combating hate, we are launching a new campaign— Take a Stand Against Hate—and invite everyone in our campus community to “take a stand” by pledging to fight hate in concrete ways. You can learn more about our effort online; we will share more about the campaign through the academic year.

Welcome to the start of a new school year

To students new to campus, welcome. Classes have only just started, and already much is happening on campus.

Dan Friedman named president-elect of Economic Science Association

New faculty further campus scholarship, research

The new professors, spread across all five divisions, further build on campus strengths in many key areas.

UC Santa Cruz student Saloni Gupta earns Sutter scholarship for medical school

Saloni Gupta, a senior studying human biology, was awarded the annual Primary Care Physician award, a $10,000 scholarship.

Memorial service for Walter Goldfrank scheduled for Nov. 4

The campus community is invited to a celebration of the life of Walter Goldfrank, professor emeritus of sociology and Latin American and Latino Studies, on Nov. 4.

Free public talk by Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, pioneer of microfinance, on Oct. 10

The public is invited to attend a free talk by microfinance pioneer Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday, October 10, in the College 9/10 Multipurpose Room at UC Santa Cruz.

Grace McClintock named Academic Personnel Director

Commitment to preventing sexual violence

Here at UC Santa Cruz we are committed to preventing sexual violence and sexual harassment, and responding swiftly and fairly when incidents are reported to our Title IX Office.

Information session for '3+3 BA/JD Program' set for Oct. 7

Join the fun at the Harvest Festival on Oct. 1

Celebrate the abundance of the fall harvest with live music, cooking demonstrations, tasty food, activities for kids, and tours of the UCSC Farm at the annual UC Santa Cruz Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 1, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Supporting those impacted by earthquake in Mexico

If you have been impacted by the earthquake, please contact our Slug Support program, which was created to promote early intervention with students who may be under stress. The campus also offers counseling and psychological support through the CAPS program and through Student Health Services.

UC Santa Cruz music alumnus lands job as head archivist of Bob Dylan Archive

Five weeks ago, UC Santa Cruz alumnus Mark Davidson moved from Austin, Texas, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to begin a new job at the Bob Dylan Archive.

New mirror-coating technology promises dramatic improvements in telescopes

An electrical engineer teamed up with astronomers to improve telescope mirrors using thin-film technology from the electronics industry

Annual campus move-in begins Wednesday

This week we are preparing to welcome more than 9,000 residential students to our community. University Housing will open its doors for occupancy beginning Wednesday, Sept. 20, and student Move-In will continue through Sunday, Sept. 24.

Supporting our First Generation Initiative

With more than 42 percent of our undergraduate students among the first generation in their families to seek a four-year college or university degree, UC Santa Cruz has proudly launched a First Generation Initiative.

DACA renewal workshops

UC Santa Cruz is offering two workshops about renewing paperwork for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program for students and their immediate family members.

Love 'em or hate 'em, robots are here to stay so let's make them better, says psychology prof

Leila Takayama's work focuses on improving the design and function of personal robots to make them more appealing to humans, expanding what they can do for us.

UC Santa Cruz ranks among top 100 U.S. universities

UC Santa Cruz is among the top 100 national universities, according to the latest rankings by 'U.S. News and World Report.'

Input sought on impact of Student Housing West

UC Santa Cruz is beginning the environmental review of Student Housing West, the proposed 3,000-bed student housing project on the west side of campus.

Urgent information about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program

Urgent news for those in our community who are in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

UC Santa Cruz initiated fiber-optic project brings high-speed broadband to Central Coast communities

Installation is complete on a 91-mile fiber optic cable made possible by UC Santa Cruz that will bring reliable, speedy internet broadband to underserved communities across 430 square miles from Watsonville through the Salinas Valley to Soledad.

Providing resources and support to undocumented students

We are deeply dismayed by the announcement that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been rescinded.

Our commitment to Title IX

Following up on my message about changes to our Title IX Office, I’d like to reiterate UC Santa Cruz’s strong commitment to ending sexual assault and other forms of sexual violence on our campus.

Geologists to deploy vast array of seismometers along Alaska Peninsula

A team of geologists will deploy a vast array of seismometers along the Alaska Peninsula in an experiment they hope will solve long-standing mysteries.

In Memoriam: Patrick Barber

Patrick Barber worked as a member of our campus inspection team as an associate construction inspector with the Office of Physical Planning and Construction (PP&C). He passed away Sept. 1.

UC Santa Cruz ranked third worldwide for research influence

In a new analysis of the world’s top universities, UCSC ranked third in research influence as measured by the number of times its faculty’s published work is cited by scholars around the world.

Changes in the Title IX Office

As we prepare for the start of a new academic year, I would like to update campus on changes in our Title IX program.

Join campus effort to support first-gen college students, campus community

With more than 42 percent of undergraduate students as the first in their generation to attend college, UC Santa Cruz launched its First Generation Initiative in spring 2016. The program, modeled after the successful, pioneering efforts of UC Irvine, now includes all ten UC campuses.

Astronaut, oceanographer, and alumna Kathryn Sullivan to speak at Rio Theater

UC Santa Cruz alumna Kathryn Sullivan, former NOAA administrator, will speak at the Rio Theater in Santa Cruz on October 11.

Trump administration action on DACA

Together we are deeply saddened by and strongly disagree with the decision by President Trump today to effectively end the DACA program. This compassionless action imperils the futures of hundreds of thousands of Dreamers across our nation, including hundreds here on our campus who are pursuing the dream of a college education without fear of deportation.

UC Santa Cruz hosts international workshop for Thirty Meter Telescope

Work on TMT is in high gear at UC Santa Cruz and other partner institutions and countries around the world.

Parents know best: How everyday conversations foster children's learning

For more than two decades, developmental psychologist Maureen Callanan has collaborated with Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose to study how children learn to think about the world around them.

Campus joining in city’s traffic safety campaign

Street Smarts is a public education campaign that intends to improve the roadway behavior of drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians—everyone who uses Santa Cruz roadways.

Help for students impacted by catastrophic storms

We are reaching out to UC Santa Cruz graduate and undergraduate students who hail from coastal Texas and areas of Southeast Asia to offer our support and sympathy in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and massive flooding as a result of seasonal monsoons. Campus resources are available if students are at all struggling.

Coastal wetlands dramatically reduce property losses during hurricanes

A new scientific study reports that coastal wetlands significantly reduce annual flood losses and catastrophic damages from storms.

American pika disappears from large area of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains

Study documents local extinction of pikas from the largest area yet reported and projects climate change will cause drastic decline for the charismatic mammal within decades

UC statement on Tropical Storm Harvey

The University of California would like to express profound sympathy and concern to our colleagues in the higher education community in Houston and surrounding areas impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Humanities alum Michael Scherer joins 'Washington Post' as national political reporter

Michael Scherer will join the Washington Post as a national political reporter in September. One of the first students in the Creative Writing Program led by literature professors Micah Perks and Karen Yamashita, Scherer graduated from UC Santa Cruz in 1998 with a B.A. in Literature.

Century-old seal pelts reveal changes in Ross Sea ecosystem

Scientists found valuable samples for comparison to modern Weddell seals in the huts of Antarctic explorers Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott.

Parking Management Starts September 1st at the Coastal Science Campus and 2300 Delaware

Beginning September 1, 2017, UCSC parking permits will be required on the Coastal Science Campus (and at 2300 Delaware Avenue) weekdays from 8:00am–5:00pm, except holidays.

USDA awards $2.5 million grant to UC Santa Cruz to expand organic strawberry research

UC Santa Cruz researchers who have pioneered alternatives to methyl bromide in commercial strawberry production have received a $2.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that will take their work national.

NSF awards $1.5 million grant for data science research at UC Santa Cruz

A cross-disciplinary team of computer scientists, statisticians, and mathematicians is developing the theoretical foundations of the emerging field of data science.

What causes algal blooms to become toxic?

NOAA grant funds an investigation to find what triggers production of the toxin domoic acid by marine algae in events that can harm wildlife and close coastal fisheries.

Lessons of regional recovery from around the country

As the country's political and cultural divides appear insurmountable, Chris Benner says hope can be found at the local and regional level.

Alum and independent filmmaker Peter Bratt directs, writes, and produces documentary about labor activist Dolores Huerta

Independent filmmaker Peter Bratt, a 1986 politics graduate of Cowell College, has written, directed, and produced a new documentary about legendary labor activist Dolores Huerta.

Diseased poplars to be removed near campus entrance

The campus will remove five diseased poplar trees near the campus entrance.

Murals tell a story of pan-Latino solidarity in SF's Mission District

Graduate student Mauricio Ramírez is an artist, a muralist, and a native San Franciscan who is fascinated by the murals in the Mission District of San Francisco—and by the progressive coalition of artists and immigrants that coalesced during the decades they were painted.

Supporting our community

UC Santa Cruz will continue to provide services and support to all students without regard to immigration status.

Launchpad offers a boost to innovation

Launchpad, managed by the Industry Alliances & Technology Commercialization (IATC) Office, will be offering $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000 grants to promising UCSC technologies in science and engineering. Applications will be accepted until Sept. 28.

Re-opening search for vice chancellor for information technology

In consultation with the search committee for vice chancellor for information technology, the CP/EVC’s office has decided to reopen the national search.

Campus review of the draft electrical safety policy BAS-005

As required by the standard campus policy review process, Business and Administrative Services is proposing a new policy that addresses workplace safety in the electrical environment.

In Memoriam: Andrew Doe (1928-2017)

Andrew Doe, UC Santa Cruz professor emeritus of theater arts, died of lung cancer at his home in Vermont on July 12, 2017. His family shared thoughts from Theater Arts professor James Bierman.

Florida flood risk study identifies priorities for property buyouts

A study of flood damage in Florida proposes prioritizing property buyouts based on flood risk, ecological value, and socioeconomic conditions.

Welcoming Dean of Social Sciences Katharyne Mitchell

I want to officially welcome to campus Katharyne Mitchell, who this week began her appointment as dean of the Social Sciences Division.

Dining for Farmers supports Farm & Garden's apprenticeship training programs

Seven of Santa Cruz County's best restaurants are participating in the "Dining for Farmers" dinner series, donating a portion of their proceeds to apprenticeship training programs.

An outstanding close to the Campaign for UC Santa Cruz

Together we raised more than $335 million in support of our students, faculty, and programs. Congratulations to all who helped make this campaign such a striking success.

UC Santa Cruz humanities alumna named 2017 Mellon/ACLS Public Fellow

Sophia Magnone (Ph.D. Literature, 2016) is one of 20 new Mellon/ACLS Public Fellows nationwide who will take up two-year assignments working in the fields of policy, civil rights, arts and culture, and the media.

Submit feedback on campus child care

The campus ​is working​ to bring child​ ​care back for staff and faculty employees as part of the Student ​Housing West project. ​ The new child care center will continue to serves students with children, and will also serve faculty and staff families.​

Message on Charlottesville violence

The horrific events that unfolded in Charlottesville this weekend remind us that we must be vigilant in our fight against all who promulgate hate and violence based on race, faith, sexual orientation or personal belief. Silence is complicity.

Traps set on campus to detect Asian gypsy moth

Pest detection traps have been set at UC Santa Cruz and throughout the community after a single Asian gypsy moth was found in a trap in the City of Santa Cruz.

No place for hate at UC Santa Cruz

Campus hires three new coaches for Slug athletics

UC Santa Cruz has made three new head coaching hires in its NCAA Division III program.

Tuning in to social justice

Professor-turned-radio show producer Sylvanna Falcón talks about the importance of public scholarship in the Trump era.

Campus hires interim athletics director

UC Santa Cruz has hired seasoned intercollegiate athletics director Greg Warzecka to lead its NCAA Division III program. He will serve on an interim basis until a permanent athletics director is hired.

Biochemist Carrie Partch honored by the Biophysical Society

The Biophysical Society has chosen UCSC biochemist Carrie Partch to receive the 2018 Margaret Oakley Dayhoff Award.

Social psychology sheds light on Trump's appeal

The surprising election of Donald Trump prompted a widespread desire to understand the factors at play in his unexpected victory. A recent analysis suggests that five social-psychological phenomena helped power Trump to victory: authoritarianism, social dominance orientation, prejudice, relative deprivation, and intergroup contact.

New analysis casts doubt on predicted decrease in Oklahoma earthquakes

Seismologists say a significant seismic hazard continues despite recent reductions in injection of wastewater from oil and gas production.

Telling stories that haven't been told

Filmmaker and alumnus Tal Skloot aims to show a different perspective with eclectic, meaningful subject matter.

Four Earth-sized planets detected orbiting the nearest sun-like star

Four Earth-sized planets orbit the nearest sun-like star, tau Ceti, which is about 12 light years away and visible to the naked eye, astronomers say.

The UC Learning Center is live

The UC Learning Center is now available for you to access.

Dickens Universe thriving at UC Santa Cruz

Nearly 300 people attended the Dickens Universe this year--a unique weeklong event held each summer among the redwood trees at UC Santa Cruz.

Federal support essential for cutting-edge research

By Scott Brandt, Vice Chancellor for Research—The University of California is at a crossroads in its push to remain the leading educational system in world-class research. Across our campuses, institutes, and partnerships, discussions are taking place regarding the drastic reductions to federal research funding being considered in Washington, D.C., that threaten to disrupt our capacity to produce invaluable research.

History professor Alma Heckman named Neufeld-Levin Chair of Holocaust Studies

Assistant professor of history and Jewish Studies Alma Rachel Heckman has been appointed as the new holder of the Neufeld-Levin Holocaust Endowed Chair at UC Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz celebrates 50 years of organic farming

The three-day celebration culminated with a joyful dinner presided over by famed chef, restaurateur, and organic food advocate Alice Waters.

Food movement grows beyond "voting with your fork" to embrace collective action, policy engagement, and regulation

After 20 years of scholarship at the forefront of food activism, Julie Guthman is gratified to see the movement expanding beyond market-based strategies that have catered to consumers with cash to burn.

UC Santa Cruz humanities alum wins Cabot Prize for journalism in Latin America

Washington Post correspondent and UC Santa Cruz alumnus Nick Miroff has been awarded a 2017 Maria Moors Cabot Prize for his reporting in Latin America.

Marine biologists John and Vicki Pearse honored at international conference

Marine biologists John and Vicki Pearse were honored for their contributions to echinoderm research at the 2017 North American Echinoderm Conference.

Conserve energy during tomorrow's PG&E Peak Pricing Day

G&E has notified Physical Plant that there will be a Peak Pricing Day from 2–6 p.m. tomorrow (July 27), which applies to PG&E users in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Scotts Valley.

EMAIL SCAM ALERT - Email addresses Updated

There is a widespread email scam that was sent to our campus accounts today, July 25. The message appears to be from Payroll Services, payroll@ucsc.edu, with the subject "Email addresses Updated." THIS IS A SCAM.

Applications open for 2018 apprenticeship, new scholarship support available

Applications for the 2018 Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture are being accepted through August 15, 2017.

Master gardener Orin Martin celebrates 40 years at the Alan Chadwick Garden

Orin Martin, who is celebrating his 40th anniversary with the UC Santa Cruz Farm & Garden this month, enjoys every minute, calling the students and apprentices he shares his days with "the light of the world."

In Memoriam: Patricia 'Trish' Virgadamo

Patricia “Trish” Virgadamo, a UC Santa Cruz human resources representative for 18 years from 1986 to 2004, passed away June 30, 2017.

Two forums scheduled on planned expanded child care program

Two open forums are scheduled for early August to gather campus community input regarding a planned expanded child care program to serve students, staff, and faculty

Superluminous supernova marks the death of a star at cosmic high noon

At a distance of 10 billion light years, a supernova detected by the Dark Energy Survey team is one of the most distant ever discovered and confirmed.

Community day highlights college pathways, accessibility 

Politics PhD candidate named a Jennings Randolph Peace Scholar

Michael Wilson Becerril, a doctoral candidate in politics, has been named a 2017-18 Jennings Randolph Peace Scholar.

UC Learning Center Upgrade and Downtime

As mentioned in last week's Tuesday Newsday, the UC Learning Center is getting a helpful upgrade, which will be available on 8/9/17.

Library receives Recordings at Risk grant to preserve Cabrillo Festival tapes

UC Santa Cruz is the recipient of a Recordings at Risk grant from the Council on Library and Information Resources to digitize 69 open-reel audiotapes of live music performances from the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music.

Intercollegiate athletics program charts course into the future

The NCAA Division III program, which has been under a budget cloud for the past several years, can now confidently look toward the future. The program has been bolstered by a new student fee, was recently restructured so it aligns with other successful Division III programs in the nation, and will head into the coming season with more awareness than ever before.

UCSC arts research center awarded $250,000 grant from U.S. Forest Service

The U.S. Forest Service has awarded a $250,000 grant to the Center for the Study of the Force Majeure, a research center based in the Arts Division at UC Santa Cruz.

Did life begin on land rather than in the sea?

A paradigm-shifting hypothesis laid out by UC Santa Cruz astrobiologists David Deamer and Bruce Damer could reshape our idea about the origin of life.

Jaye Padgett named vice provost for the Division of Student Success

I am pleased to announce that Jaye Padgett, interim vice provost for the Division of Student Success, has been formally named to the position.

Campus hires new AVC for Physical Planning, Development, and Operations

UC Santa Cruz has hired Traci Ferdolage to serve as the associate vice chancellor for Physical Planning, Development, and Operations. She starts in September.

Growing farmers and the food movement for 50 years

The experiment in organic gardening that began at UC Santa Cruz in 1967 is now the oldest university-based organic research and education facility in the country.

Don Brenneis honored for service

Donald Brenneis, distinguished professor of anthropology and interim dean of the Division of Social Sciences, has received the Franz Boas Award for Exemplary Service to Anthropology.

Gardening workshops July 29 are part of UC Santa Cruz celebration of 50 years of organic farming

The public is invited to attend an afternoon of gardening workshops on Saturday, July 29, as part of the "First 50 Celebration" of the UC Santa Cruz Farm & Garden.

Conserve energy for today's PG&E Peak Pricing Day

PG&E has notified Physical Plant that there will be a Peak Pricing Day from 2–6 p.m. today.

Reminder: Campus Solutions and MyUCSC changes this weekend and system outage

This is a reminder that major improvements to Campus Solutions and MyUCSC will be implemented over the weekend, July 8-9. MyUCSC will be merged with Campus Solutions.

Campus admits record number of California transfers

UC Santa Cruz offered admission to 27,216 students for the upcoming academic year with a record number of offers made to California community college students. The largest portion of admissions offers—19,258 or 70 percent—are to California students.

California Whistleblower Protection Act - Annual Notice

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. The University’s Whistleblower Policy provides multiple avenues for employees to bring forward concerns of potential employee misconduct.

Updates about our athletics program

As you know, students in May approved a referendum that will provide much-needed funding for our NCAA Division III athletics program. Had it not passed, I would have faced a truly difficult decision: whether to continue to fund intercollegiate athletics on campus.

'Little Cub' gives astronomers rare chance to see galaxy demise

A primitive galaxy that could provide clues about the early universe has been spotted by astronomers as it begins to be consumed by a gigantic neighboring galaxy.

New international activities policy

The new policy covers all international activities conducted by all UC employees and students including routine activities by setting out governing principles, clarifying approval levels, and directs proponents of international activities to consider and address attendant risk.

Brad Smith to serve as interim vice chancellor for IT

It is a pleasure to announce that Brad Smith, director of information technology services, research and faculty partnerships, and adjunct associate professor of computer engineering, has agreed to serve as vice chancellor for information technology on an interim basis.

UC Santa Cruz launches new data science research center

Data, Discovery, and Decisions (D3) research center provides a platform for collaboration between industry and academia in the emerging field of data science.

Judit Moschkovich appointed to NAS committee

Judit Moschkovich, professor of education, will serve on a National Academy of Sciences committee focused on the needs of English Learners in STEM subjects.

UC Santa Cruz names Katharyne Mitchell new dean of Social Sciences Division

UC Santa Cruz has appointed Katharyne Mitchell as dean of the Division of Social Sciences, effective Aug. 15.

Nanopipette technology wins first place in NIH 'Follow that Cell' challenge

Biomolecular engineer Nader Pourmand has spent years developing technology to measure and track changes within a single living cell over time.

New Social Sciences dean

I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Katharyne Mitchell as dean of the Social Sciences Division. She starts on Aug. 15.

Awards spotlight commitment to teaching

Seven UC Santa Cruz faculty members were recognized for their extraordinary commitment teaching.

Formal review of campus community comment for proposed systemwide video security/safety systems policy

The Office of the President invites comments on a proposed new policy for video security/safety systems.

Revision to the Sustainable Practices policy

The University of California Office of the President has issued a revision to the Sustainable Practices policy.

Campus Solutions and MyUCSC will be merged July 10

Major improvements to Campus Solutions and MyUCSC will be implemented over the July 8 weekend. MyUCSC will be merged with Campus Solutions, the system administrative offices use to support campus functions like enrollment, billing and admissions. The consolidated system will retain the MyUCSC name and branding, and get a complete navigation redesign.

Update on state law prohibiting state-funded travel to certain states

On Sept. 27, 2016, Gov. Brown signed into law AB 1887, which became effective Jan. 1, 2017. This law prohibits state-funded travel to a state that has passed a law after June 26, 2015 that (1) authorizes discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identify, and gender expression, or (2) voids or repeals existing state or local protections against such discrimination.

UC Santa Cruz faculty awarded grants from the National Endowment for the Arts

Two faculty members from the UC Santa Cruz Arts Division have each received $25,000 Art Works grants from the National Endowment for the Arts to support their latest documentary film projects.

Lick Observatory kicks off popular Summer Series

Natalie Batalha, who earned her doctorate in astrophysics from UC Santa Cruz, was the keynote scientist on the second evening of the 37th annual Summer Series at the Lick Observatory on Mt. Hamilton.

First-generation stories: Headed to UCLA to continue cancer research

Our podcast catches up with new grad Hector Navarro, a first-generation college student who's off to big things.

Astronomy grad students honored by International Astronomical Union

Caroline Morley and Morgan MacLeod are among the first winners of the IAU Ph.D. Prize in recognition of outstanding scientific achievement.

Steck Award recipient seeks to solve atomic structure of human astrovirus

Edmundo Perez (College 10 ‘17, bioengineering) is being recognized for his work on how the human immune system blocks virus infection and disease.

Worm studies investigate how grandparents' experiences can affect our genes

In the hot field of epigenetics, Susan Strome's lab is studying tiny roundworms to understand the mechanisms behind surprising observations in human populations.

Knight Foundation funds project on breaking 'filter bubbles' in science journalism

The Science Communication Program will explore ways to broaden the reach of science journalism and improve civic discourse on science-related issues.

Mountain lions fear humans, fleeing when they hear our voices, new study reveals

New research into the behavior of mountain lions indicates that they don't like encountering humans any more than we like bumping into them on hiking trails.

African leopards revealed: Study documents minute-to-minute behavior of elusive cats

The elusive behavior of the African leopard has been revealed in great detail for the first time as part of a sophisticated study that links the majestic cat's caloric demands and its drive to kill.

2017 Thumbs Up Awards

Do you know a staff member who goes above and beyond to help the university? The UC Santa Cruz Staff Advisory Board is pleased to announce the 2017 Thumbs Up Awards.

London’s Barbican Centre celebrates career of film professor B. Ruby Rich

The work of feminist writer, film critic, LGBT activist, and UC Santa Cruz professor of film and digital media B. Ruby Rich will be celebrated this week at the Barbican Centre in London.

Update -- student found

Tejas Kaladi, UC Santa Cruz student reported missing yesterday, has been found and reunited with his family, thanks to assistance from the community.

LALS doctoral candidate wins Fulbright for study in Mexico

Candy Martinez, a doctoral candidate in Latin American and Latino Studies, has received a Fulbright grant to study how indigenous communities in Oaxaca, Mexico, define and cope with trauma.

Weather and traffic advisory for this weekend

The National Weather Service is warning of a heat wave in the days ahead with temperatures peaking on Saturday.

Wrapping up the year

Campus is once again deep in preparation for commencement, meaning another school year is rapidly drawing to a close. I want to thank you all for another noteworthy year. It hasn't been one without its share of challenges, but there is much to celebrate.

Looking for life

Alumna Natalie Batalha, who made Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people on Earth, has discovered approximately 4,000 new planets—some of which may turn out to be capable of supporting life.

Astronomer Jerry Nelson, pioneering designer of large telescopes, dies at age 73

Jerry Nelson, a pioneering astronomer known for his innovative designs for advanced telescopes, died June 10 at his home in Santa Cruz.

New graduates head into two-year teaching corps

Five UC Santa Cruz graduates are joining about 6,800 new graduates and professionals who have committed to work two years in rural and urban schools as part of Teach For America

Farm & Garden’s Market Cart produce stand opens June 20

Celebrate the start of summer on Tuesday, June 20, when the Farm & Garden’s Market Cart opens for 2017.

Sad news about Jerry Nelson

It’s with a heavy heart that I pass along the sad news that pioneering astronomer Jerry Nelson, UC Santa Cruz professor emeritus of astronomy and astrophysics, died Saturday, June 10, at his Santa Cruz home.

Bettina Aptheker receives Dizikes Award for teaching in Humanities

Distinguished Professor of Feminist Studies Bettina Aptheker was presented with the John Dizikes Teaching Award in Humanities at the Humanities Division’s 2017 Spring Awards celebration held at the Cowell Provost House.

In Memoriam: Zackory Myers

Zackory was majoring in Math, loved to ride his bike, and is remembered as always being exceedingly sweet and polite to others. We mourn his loss today.

Parking during year-end activities

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

Global Studies Association honors Professor Emeritus Walter Goldfrank

The Global Studies Association will honor Professor Emeritus Walter Goldfrank during its 2017 conference being held June 14-16 at UC Berkeley.

Long delays expected on Highway 17 for emergency paving

Caltrans will perform emergency grinding and paving operations from Monday through Friday.

‘Love on Haight’ exhibit celebrates Summer of Love at McHenry Library

"Love on Haight: the Grateful Dead and San Francisco in 1967"--a new exhibit commemorating the 50th anniversary of the historic Summer of Love--has just opened at McHenry Library’s Dead Central.

Campus preparing for commencement 2017

More than 4,800 UCSC students are earning undergraduate and graduate degrees for work completed during the 2016-2017 academic year.

Accelerating success: 5 startups chosen to jump-start businesses

The UC Santa Cruz Office of Research will provide $500,000 to the accelerator program, which serves early-stage technology businesses that have a product but haven’t started selling it. The accelerator will be run by Santa Cruz Works, a local nonprofit that supports science and technology companies.

Materials Science and Engineering Initiative focuses on sustainability

UC Santa Cruz researchers are developing new materials for a wide range of devices and products, from solar cells to surfboards.

Annual training exercise for active shooter, June 19 to 2

A training exercise sponsored by the UC Santa Cruz Police Department will be held from June 19 to 23 at the Division of the Arts complex (Baskin Visual Arts and Theater Arts complexes). This training is expected to begin at about 8 a.m. each day, last throughout the day, and end at 6 p.m.

Students present diversity project to state leaders

Student leaders presented a diversity project that received one-time state funding through the UC Office of the President.

'Hail Mary' mechanism can rescue cells with severely damaged chromosomes

Understanding the mechanisms involved in chromosome repair, and how they can fail, may lead to new strategies to combat cancer.

Annual transportation survey

UCSC's Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) is launching its annual survey to collect data on the travel patterns of our students, faculty, and staff. The survey is a key part of our effort to monitor and improve our programs, services, and systems.

Curriculum changes announced

By Martin Berger, Acting Vice Provost for Academic Affairs — Each year, departments add, update and, occasionally, discontinue academic programs in our ongoing efforts to ensure that we provide our students with the most relevant educational offerings.

Community Crime Bulletin: 417 PC—Brandishing with a knife (Case 17-604)

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is seeking the community's assistance with identifying a man who brandished a knife at a student.

Builder of “bridges” named next Staff Advisor-Designate to the Regents

Sherry Main, assistant vice chancellor of Communications and Marketing at UC Santa Cruz, has been selected as the next Staff Advisor-Designate to the Regents. Her two-year appointment begins July 1.

Genomics Institute joins international Human Cell Atlas Initiative

UCSC researchers will collaborate with partners in U.S. and Europe to build data coordination platform for effort to characterize every cell type in the human body.

Welcoming new CP/EVC Marlene Tromp

I’d like to offer a warm welcome to Marlene Tromp, who today officially joins us as campus provost/executive vice chancellor.

Chancellor’s diversity awards recognize work, commitment

Chancellor George Blumenthal presented seven Chancellor's Achievement Awards for Diversity, as well as the WiSE award, during a May 31 ceremony at the Colleges Nine and Ten Multipurpose Room.

Success of Indians in the U.S. showcases importance of education

A new book coauthored by Nirvikar Singh tells the fascinating story of how a population from a poor developing country with low education became the most educated, highest-income group in the world's most advanced nation—in a single generation.

Pay for Performance Update

This is an update on our ongoing Pay for Performance program. As SHR has communicated previously, our UC Santa Cruz pay and performance programs are part of UC-wide initiatives. Systemwide policies are set at the office of the president (after consulting with the campuses) and we have the responsibility to implement them at UC Santa Cruz, taking into account local factors such as resources and timing.

Music alum named Santa Cruz County Artist of the Year

UC Santa Cruz alumna Shelley Phillips (Music,’85) has been named the 2017 Santa Cruz County Artist of the Year by the Santa Cruz County Arts Commission.

Athletics fee referendum passes

Measure 68, which proposed a $38.50-per-quarter fee to support the NCAA athletics program and provide access to athletic-related activities to students who meet the Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP) criteria, passed with 79 percent of voting students supporting the fee.

STEM Diversity graduation honors student achievement

"You are already catalyzing change," a speaker told students at the end-of-year celebration for graduating seniors and others in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.

Planned expansion in child care services and on-campus employee housing

UC Santa Cruz is planning to build a new child care center and expand service to employees. In addition, we are planning to expand on-campus employee housing options.

Campus Elections Results

2017 Campus Elections results are now available at elections.ucsc.edu.

UC Santa Cruz to launch first-generation faculty campaign

UC Santa Cruz will launch the First-Gen Faculty (FGF) campaign during Student Achievement week, which starts June 5. This initiative is aimed at encouraging professors on campus to identify themselves as first generation — the first in their families to graduate from a U.S. four-year college or university.

Ronnie Lipschutz appointed to chair in integral ecology and environmental justice

Ronnie Lipschutz, professor of politics and provost of Rachel Carson College, was honored as the inaugural holder of the Robert Headley Presidential Chair for Integral Ecology and Environmental Justice.

Time to renew parking permits and Metro bus passes

Annual parking permits and faculty/staff Metro bus passes expire on June 30, 2017. Those who need to renew their parking permit or bus pass for 2017-18 can apply online now, or in person at the TAPS Sales Office.

Community expectations

Our campus has a long and proud history of challenging the status quo. We do it through research, through teaching, and through activism. The exchange of ideas—sometimes done quietly, sometimes not—helps to move society and our campus forward.

IHR’s second ‘Night at the Museum’ draws capacity crowd

A capacity crowd filled the atrium floor and lined the balcony stairs of the Museum of Art and History in downtown Santa Cruz for the latest public event presented by UCSC’s Institute for Humanities Research.

Koret scholars present research at poster slam

The Koret Scholars Undergraduate Research Slam will feature poster presentations about topics as diverse as a protein link to heart disease, female authorship in science fiction and horror genres, and the qualitative impact that research opportunities can have on the undergrad experience.

Evolutionary biologist John Thompson awarded Darwin-Wallace Medal

Named for Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace, the prestigious award recognizes major advances in evolutionary biology.

Hands-on learning is the name of the game in archaeology

In a unique partnership, UC Santa Cruz is collaborating with California State Parks, Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, and a private firm to give students hands-on experience in archaeology.

Upcoming Pay for Performance (P4P) Town Hall Series

Staff Human Resources and the Pay for Performance workgroup has developed an electronic performance appraisal tool this year for our campus

Prion study reveals how abnormal proteins damage nerve cells in the brain

Research on the prion protein may explain why nerve cells degenerate in prion diseases such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Statement from interim vice provost for Student Success

Pettigrew receives Centennial Medal from Harvard University

Tom Pettigrew, research professor of social psychology, received the Centennial Medal from Harvard University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences for his work in racial relations.

Changes coming to MyUCSC - July 8

Major improvements to MyUCSC and Campus Solutions will be implemented over the July 8th weekend.

People of Color Sustainability Collective wins top honors

The Best Practice Award is the highest honor in the field of higher education sustainability in the state. It will be presented during the California Higher Education Sustainability Conference June 26–29 at UC Santa Barbara.

Alumna committed to improving financial literacy for women

Sherry Paul committed herself to financial literacy after witnessing the negative impact of financial inequities—what happens when people don’t have money to support their basic needs and their ideals.

Move Out Program and Garage Sale Weekend: Diverting unwanted items from waterways and landfills – Earn a FREE large pizza from Woodstock’s

As you know, it has been a tradition at UCSC to lower our impact on the environment. When you move out at the end of the quarter, it may seem generous to leave your items on the sidewalk with a “FREE” sign. Unfortunately this material ends up in our waterways, the bay or in landfills.

Alison Galloway to discuss "Life of the Dead" at the Rio Theatre on June 6

Forensic anthropologist Alison Galloway will give a public lecture on June 6 about the natural history of human decomposition and her work analyzing human remains.

Karen Holl recognized for tropical forest restoration work

Karen Holl, professor of environmental studies, has been named a recipient of the 2017 Theodore M. Sperry Award, presented by the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER).

Psychology research featured in NSF video showcase

A new video about Barbara Rogoff's research is featured this week in the National Science Foundation 2017 "STEM for All" Video Showcase.

'Zoot Suit' still relevant four decades later

When Zoot Suit premiered at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles in 1978, it was more than just an instant success. As former Los Angeles Times theater critic Sylvie Drake recently observed, “it exploded on the stage with the force of a sociopolitical A-bomb.”

High school students wrestle with ethical quandaries

With coaching from the UC Santa Cruz Ethics Bowl team, underrepresented students from regional high schools gathered to discuss thorny questions on topics ranging from white privilege to sports and gender at the second annual Invitational Ethics Bowl.

New coral reef fish species shows rare parental care behavior

Evolutionary biologist Giacomo Bernardi and his students discovered a new species of damselfish that cares for its young.

UC Santa Cruz students to show VR projects and videogames in public showcase

The 'Sammy Showcase' on Saturday, June 3, is hosted by the Games and Playable Media program at the UCSC Silicon Valley Campus.

Graduating senior propelled by curiosity and a desire to give back

Jenn Figueroa arrived at College Ten from her hometown of Northridge and proceeded to take advantage of every extracurricular program offered by College Nine and College Ten.

Creating a safe campus culture

UC Santa Cruz has seen a dramatic uptick in reports of sexual violence and sexual harassment (SVSH) over the past few years. While only 85 reports were received during the 2013-14 academic year, that number jumped to 181 in 2014-15, 233 in 2015-16, and we are on track to receive approximately 375 reports this year.

Astronomer Sandra Faber awarded Gruber Cosmology Prize

Faber's groundbreaking studies of galaxies helped establish many of the foundational principles of modern cosmology.

Gary Griggs stepping down after 26 years as director of Institute of Marine Sciences

Peter Raimondi, professor of ecology and evolutionary biology, will serve as director on an interim basis starting July 1.

Study unveils T cell signaling process central to immune response

Recognition of an antigen by the T cell receptor triggers the first steps leading to an immune response.

Housing expansion supports student success

By Sarah Latham, Vice Chancellor Business and Administrative Services — Living on campus is an important element in the success of our students and we have a responsibility to ensure adequate on-campus housing for our current and future students.

'Ecosystems of California' wins gold medal in California Book Awards

Coedited by UC Santa Cruz ecologist Erika Zavaleta, the book will be honored by the Commonwealth Club of California.

Undergraduate Education seeks part-time administrator: Rachel Carson College Provost

In 2017-18, the Division of Undergraduate Education is undertaking a search for a part-time faculty administrator: Rachel Carson College Provost

Environmentalism Outside the Box: An Ecosex Symposium

"Environmentalism Outside the Box: An Ecosex Symposium" is the title of a free public event that will take place on May 18-19, hosted by the E.A.R.T.H. Lab, a research center of the Arts Division at UC Santa Cruz.

Statement on fossil-fuel dependency

“Flyer Literacy” event postponed until fall

We are sending this message to inform you that the “Flyer Literacy” event, scheduled for Monday, May 15, is postponed until the fall quarter.

Theater Arts professor Kimberly Jannarone named National Humanities Center Fellow

One of 34 chosen from more than 600 applicants, Kimberly Jannarone will spend the year in the company of national and international scholars from 14 states, Greece, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.

Women’s self-defense training available

The Dean of Students and the UC Santa Cruz Police Department will be sponsoring a Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) program during the spring quarter.

UCSC Staff Mentorship Pilot Program

The UC Santa Cruz Staff Advisory Board is honored to announce the return of its Staff Mentorship Program.

Electric vehicle promotional discounts and rebate offers

One of UC's carbon neutrality initiatives includes a goal of having 4.5% of commute vehicles be zero-emission vehicles by 2025. As part of that initiative, TAPS is sharing information about two electric vehicle promotions currently available to all UCSC staff, faculty, students through the end of June.

UC Santa Cruz receives gift to establish Baskin Foundation Presidential Chair for Feminist Studies

UC Santa Cruz has received a $500,000 gift from the Peggy and Jack Baskin Foundation, plus matching funds from the UC Regents, to establish the $1 million "Peggy and Jack Baskin Foundation Presidential Chair for Feminist Studies."

Revisions to the policy on Electronic Information Security (IS-3)

The Office of the President invites comments on a proposed revisions to the policy on Electronic Information Security (IS-3).

Technology doesn't have to be a headache

Psychology Professor Steve Whittaker is working to improve the way we interface with technology--and harnessing it to improve our well-being.

Staff Appreciation Picnic on May 25

Please join Chancellor George Blumenthal and the Staff Advisory Board for the annual staff appreciation picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 25 on the East Field. The picnic will feature informational tabling by campus-affiliated organizations, the presentation of the Outstanding Staff Award, and our famous raffle.

Sisters Julie and Kristen Gautier-Downes Turn Loss into an Art

Twin sisters, Julie and Kristen Gautier-Downes both decided to pursue the arts at UC Santa Cruz, graduating in 2011 and 2012 respectively. Julie earned her BA in Studio Art, with an emphasis in photography, and went on to acquire an MFA in Photography at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) while Kristen received a BA in Studio Art with a concentration in painting.

New teaching center brings expert on campus climate to campus

The new Center for Innovations in Teaching and Learning (CITL) at UC Santa Cruz celebrates its inaugural convocation on May 18 with a visit from alumna Susan Longerbeam (Merrill, ’84), a specialist in classroom cultural climate issues.

Bike to Work month events feature free food, helmets

UCSC's Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has joined with Ecology Action to host the 30th annual Santa Cruz County Spring Bike Week, May 8 -12, 2017.

UCSC to present environmental video installation at SF’s Minnesota Street Project

UC Santa Cruz’s Institute of the Arts and Sciences will present a dramatic, four-screen video installation in San Francisco, hosted and co-sponsored by Minnesota Street Project, the city’s new contemporary art venue, May 20 through June 24.

Graduate student John Felts takes second place in UC Grad Slam

Felts presented his work on Cruz Foam, a biodegradable alternative to polyurethane and polystyrene foam.

Social Sciences Professor Julie Guthman wins Radcliffe Fellowship

Julie Guthman has been awarded a Radcliffe Institute Fellowship that will support a year-long residential research project at Harvard University.

U.S. farmland becoming a hot commodity as investors buy up acreage

Institutional investors have been buying up farmland across the country in a trend that could have significant impacts on farmers.

ITS Announcement: Follow up to Google Docs email scam

Yesterday’s Google Docs email scam involving thousands of UCSC accounts and millions of people, was dangerously convincing and pretty sophisticated.

Kerr Hall demonstration

I’m pleased to announce that the student demonstration in Kerr Hall that began Tuesday has ended, with both student protesters and campus administrators agreeing on a path forward.

ITS Alert: Google Docs Sharing Scam - May 3

There is an email scam circulating worldwide including our campus that appears to be from a legitimate email address that looks like someone is trying to share a Google Document with you.

Climate scientist James Zachos elected to National Academy of Sciences

Election to the academy is one of the highest honors a U.S. scientist can receive.

Flyers and Campus Climate

Campus Diversity Officers Dr. Teresa Maria Linda Scholz (Staff & Students) and Professor Martin Berger (Faculty) invite you to participate in a conversation about the flyers and campus climate. The event will take place on Monday, May 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm in the Oakes Learning Center.

Canceled—Community and UCSC police town hall

Enrollment opens for UCSC Summer Session

Open enrollment is underway for UC Santa Cruz Summer Session, which offers a wide range of classes and online courses across multiple departments.

Campus status updates

Both entrances are open as of 5 p.m. Motorists should drive with caution.

ITS Update: UCSC Website Outages

The campus websites have experienced two outages this morning. ITS is not exactly sure what is causing the outages, but we'll continue to investigate. Websites are stable at this time.

Community and UCSC police town hall

Over the past several weeks, the UC Santa Cruz Police Department met with various student, staff, and faculty groups to hear and gather feedback regarding security and community concerns.

UC entrepreneurs invited to meet with venture capitalists

UC entrepreneurs will meet with leading venture capitalists next month at a special lunch hosted by UC President Janet Napolitano.

Controlled burn at the Arboretum

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is conducting a controlled agricultural burn today from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sikina Jinnah named a 2017 Andrew Carnegie Fellow

Sikina Jinnah, associate professor of politics, was awarded a 2017 Andrew Carnegie Fellowship, one of the most prestigious awards available to scholars in the social sciences and humanities.

Social psychologist Phil Hammack studies well-being of LGBTQ youth

Phil Hammack is only partway through an ambitious study of the physical and psychological well-being of LGBTQ youth, and he is already surprised by his observations.

From founding farmer to champion of the fair food movement

Oran Hesterman, author of Fair Food: Growing a Healthy, Sustainable Food System for All and president and founder of Fair Food Network, talks about his roots on the UCSC Farm.

Possible protest activities planned for May 1

UC Santa Cruz is anticipating potential protest activities on Monday, May 1. Organizers are calling for a range of actions on campus and in the nearby area. This is an advisory to be prepared and to stay informed.

Input sought on environmental review of proposed land-use change

ITS Security Alert: Email Scam from @lists.ucsc.edu - April 25

This morning many of you received an email scam asking you to click on a secure "staff enrollment portal" link to enroll your employment data.

Community Supported Agriculture season is about to begin

Join the campus’s 2017 Community Support Agriculture program and get a fresh-picked box of organic produce from the UCSC Farm each week--at a 5 percent discount if you sign up by May 1.

Lyme disease researchers seek consensus as number of cases grows

Reported cases of Lyme disease in the United States have tripled in the past 20 years.

Pioneering biologist Robert L. Sinsheimer dies at age 97

Sinsheimer served as chancellor of UC Santa Cruz from 1977 to 1987.

Sad news regarding Chancellor Emeritus Robert Sinsheimer

It is with a very heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of UC Santa Cruz Chancellor Emeritus Robert Sinsheimer.

Students to consider sustainable funding model for intercollegiate athletics

The Office of Physical Education, Recreation, and Sports is proposing a $38.50 -per-quarter fee, which if approved would provide the NCAA Division III program with approximately $1.1 million beginning in fall 2018.

Planet hunting alumna Natalie Batalha among Time's 100 most influential people

Natalie Batalha, a NASA scientist who earned her Ph.D. in astrophysics at UC Santa Cruz, has been named to Time magazine's annual list of the "100 most influential people in the world."

Ninja Press to publish new book by award-winning UC Santa Cruz poet Gary Young

"In Japan" is the title of an elegant new collection of poems from UCSC humanities lecturer and alumnus Gary Young that will soon be published by Ninja Press.

In Memoriam: Karen Fry (1948–2017)

Karen Fry, a UCSC staff member for 29 years, passed away on April 2 in Paradise, California.

Nominations for Student Volunteer Center's annual service recognition awards

Students, faculty, and staff — have you been a helping hand this quarter through service work? See if you qualify for the Student Volunteer Center's Service Recognition Ceremony!

Group looks at shifting culture to focus on accountability

The meeting, the latest event in the Beyond Compliance initiative, offered overviews of employment law and Title IX investigations, updates on policy revisions and education and training efforts, and previews into possible changes to policy and procedures.

Hearst Foundations grant supports UCSC Science Communication Program

Two-year grant will help fund instructional costs, multimedia training, and recruitment efforts.

Farm & Garden’s plant sale April 29-30 highlights 50th anniversary

The UC Santa Cruz Farm & Garden’s annual Spring Plant Sale will have a 50th Anniversary flavor this year, featuring some of legendary gardener Alan Chadwick's favorite plants.

Undergrad wins prestigious Goldwater Scholarship

Physics major Andrea Antoni has been named a 2017 Goldwater Scholar by the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation.

April 20 DUI checkpoint and law enforcement efforts

Members of the UC Santa Cruz community and campus neighbors, please be advised there is the potential for traffic disruptions and hazards during the afternoon of Thursday, April 20 because of the unsanctioned gathering known as “4–20”.

Staff Mentor Program 2017

Do you know an experienced staff member who would make a good mentor for a newer UCSC staff member?

Computer pioneer Harry Huskey dies at age 101

Harry Huskey, professor emeritus of computer science, worked on early computing systems and helped universities around the world establish computer science programs.

Climate experts release latest science on sea level rise projections

A report led by UCSC geologist Gary Griggs addresses how much the ocean will rise along California's coast in coming decades.

Film professor receives California Documentary Project grant from Cal Humanities

UC Santa Cruz associate professor of film and digital media John Jota Leaños is the recipient of a 2017 California Documentary Project grant from California Humanities.

Five graduate student alumni return for awards

The five honorees will be presented with the first Distinguished Graduate Student Alumni Award and be part of panel discussions where they’ll share their stories on career and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Dancing for joy: Los Mejicas dance troupe provides a home away from home

For 45 years, the Los Mejicas folklorico dance troupe has connected students with their cultural traditions--and each other.

Start of our 2020 Long-Range Development Plan

We have had many reasons to celebrate recently—the naming of Rachel Carson College, a banner year in fundraising, our 50th anniversary.

SAB Spring Chancellor's Forum Tuesday, April 25, will be webcast only

All staff members are invited to participate in the Staff Advisory Board-sponsored Spring Forum with Chancellor George Blumenthal.

Pay for Performance -- Program Update

This is an update regarding the 2016/17 Pay for Performance Program. SHR and a cross-functional work team continue to work on changes designed to simplify and focus the program.

Theater arts professor Danny Scheie wins Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle Award

UC Santa Cruz professor of theater arts Danny Scheie has received a 2017 award from The San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and recognizing excellence in theatre arts.

Lick Observatory's summer series brings a wide variety of musicians and scientists to Mt. Hamilton

Lick's summer program features live music, evening lectures by world-renowned astronomers, and opportunities for the public to view celestial objects through two historic telescopes.

Improving access to online library resources from off campus

The University Library and Information Technology Services (ITS) have teamed up to improve your access to online library resources from off campus.

Social Sciences Professor Julie Guthman wins 2017 Guggenheim Fellowship

Julie Guthman, a professor of social sciences and a leading scholar on the history and geography of California agriculture, has been awarded a 2017 Guggenheim Fellowship.

Nominations for UC Santa Cruz's Outstanding Staff Award

This is a reminder that the deadline for Outstanding Staff Award nomination submissions is Friday, April 17, 2017.

Philosopher and three scientists to explore ethics and the language of conservation

The Institute for Humanities Research at UC Santa Cruz will present the inaugural event of its new research group, The Language of Conservation, on Friday afternoon, April 14, in the Humanities 1 building.

Bullying in the workplace

Abusive conduct and bullying in the workplace are completely unacceptable, and I am pleased to share that University of California President Janet Napolitano has issued guidelines regarding UC expectations.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

As all of you hopefully know, April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Below is a letter from Kathleen Salvaty, UC’s Systemwide Title IX Coordinator, highlighting the Responsible Employee reporting obligation set forth in the UC Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment. We found the letter informative and worth sharing.

ITS Announcement: Issues with eduroam

You may have noticed this week that your connection to eduroam wireless service has intermittently been disrupted. Thank you to those people who reported the problems!

Growing farmers and the food movement for 50 years

Fifty years after students transformed a brush-covered rocky hillside into a verdant organic garden, UC Santa Cruz is widely regarded as a trailblazing force in sustainable agriculture education and research.

Students take lead on planning Sexual Assault Awareness Month events

The events for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), hosted by several campus offices, include nationally acclaimed speakers, yoga, and art workshops, Title IX Office open houses, a community town hall meeting, and ongoing discussions about sexual violence issues on campus—in addition to a march and rally at the end of the month.

Beyond Compliance town hall on April 13

The event will provide the campus community with information on federal and state laws around personnel cases and privacy rights, proposed and completed reforms to campus policy, insight on Title IX investigations, and our shared responsibility to work toward building a safer community. Half of the evening will be devoted to hearing from attendees.

Three faculty members honored with Dickson Emeriti Professorships

Murray Baumgarten, professor of English & Comparative Literature, E.G. Crichton, professor of art, and Catherine Cooper, professor of psychology, were awarded Dickson Emeriti Professorships in recognition of outstanding achievements in scholarship and teaching.

Tackling climate change of a different sort

The Office of the Campus Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor is reconstituting the Campus Welfare Committee with a special focus on staff engagement, morales, and wellness.

Deer fawning season alert

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

Alums launch video game based on ancient Mesoamerican myth

"Ulama: Arena of the Gods," a collaboration from three Games and Playable Media alums, launched March 28 on the Steam platform.

Campus Wireless Outage April 1

UCSC and Chinese officials sign agreement for Graduate Student Scholars Program

New program will bring top Chinese students to UC Santa Cruz for graduate studies in astronomy and astrophysics.

Arboretum holds Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, April 8

Gardeners will find hundreds of varieties of drought-tolerant and extraordinary plants at the sale, as well as expert garden advice from the Arboretum's curators.

Grad student composer wins commission to create new piece for Other Minds Festival

UC Santa Cruz grad student Brian Baumbusch has received a grant to create a new composition that will be performed at the acclaimed Other Minds Festival of contemporary music in 2018.

Honoring the legacy of César E. Chávez on campus

The legacy of César Chávez, who would have been 90 years old this Friday, includes deep and lasting relationships with many UC Santa Cruz alumni, faculty, and staff, whose lives were changed through the nonviolent farmworker movement that started in the ’60s and continues today.

Career Tracks Event Update

Following is a quick update of our upcoming Career Tracks Support Events.

Prop. 8 plaintiff Kris Perry receives Distinguished Social Sciences Alumni Award

"You only win your civil rights by fighting for them," says alumna Kris Perry, who will be honored at a reception on Friday, April 28.

Astronomers observe early stages of Milky Way-like galaxies in distant universe

New observations reveal massive, dusty galaxies with high rates of star formation and large, extended layers of gas.

Colorful new species of sea slug named after Long Marine Lab's Gary McDonald

McDonald, who has spent decades studying and documenting California nudibranchs (sea slugs), was honored by fellow researchers.

Rescuing data and shoring up environmental agencies in the Trump era

Sociologist Lindsey Dillon is part of a network of data champions monitoring federal websites to preserve scientific data and track changes made by the Trump administration.

Water wizards: Building an underground savings account to bolster water supply

An innovative water-conservation strategy diverts water from overflowing rivers to fallow farmland, where it seeps into the soil and replenishes depleted aquifers.

Men’s rugby headed to playoffs

The Banana Slugs will play the Chico State Wildcats on April 1.

UC Santa Cruz ranked among top schools for game design

UCSC is featured on Princeton Review's 2017 lists for top undergraduate and graduate programs in game design.

Nominations for Excellence in Teaching Award

Is there an instructor who you think deserves special recognition from your spring quarter 2016? If so, nominate that person for an Excellence in Teaching Award!

Formal review of proposed systemwide policy on export controls

The Office of the President invites comments on a proposed new systemwide policy on Export Controls.

Scotts Valley Center open house

Open dialogue on religions to foster understanding

The UC Santa Cruz Interfaith Council will host an open dialogue on religion from 7–8:30 p.m. on April 6 in the Crown College/Merrill College Community Room.

California's Tsunami Preparedness Week starts March 27

Members of the UC Santa Cruz community should know how to be prepared for tsunamis and what to do to be safe.

Report highlights strategic plan’s successes

A report about Envision UC Santa Cruz summarizes the many accomplishments in key target areas since the strategic planning process began in the 2013–14 academic year.

Interim vice provost for global engagement

Richard Hughey, UC Santa Cruz vice provost and dean of undergraduate education, has agreed to also serve as our interim vice provost for global engagement, effective Jan. 1.

UC Santa Cruz alum named executive director of largest international society of Jewish Studies

UC Santa Cruz alumnus Warren Hoffman has been named the next Executive Director of the Association for Jewish Studies (AJS)--the largest international society of students and scholars of Jewish studies.

Tropical reforestation and climate change

Tropical reforestation is an important part of the global effort to mitigate climate change, but ecologist Karen Holl says current international goals may be overly ambitious.

Scientists reveal how an ancient biological clock works

Scientists at UC Santa Cruz, UC Merced, and UC San Diego have determined the molecular basis of the cyanobacterial circadian clock.

Gun safety advocate Shannon Watts to speak at Gabriel Zimmerman Award benefit

Gun safety advocate Shannon Watts will be the keynote speaker at a campus reception to celebrate the life of alum Gabriel Zimmerman.

Recruitment for campus position of Vice Provost for Student Success

I'm happy to announce that we have initiated a campus-only recruitment for the position of Vice Provost for the Division of Student Success.

Need for speed may contribute to dolphin and whale strandings

The energetic cost of swimming at high speed when startled may be a factor in strandings of dolphins and whales.

Lick Observatory offers new Public Evening Tours of telescopes in 2017

Growing demand has led to expanded opportunities for the public to see and view through the observatory's telescopes.

Graduate applications hit new high

The Office of Graduate Studies has received 4,744 applications for the 2017-18 academic year. In the last five years, the campus has marked a 36 percent increase in the number of applications.

Grad programs rank among best in nation

UC Santa Cruz graduate programs in literature, engineering, and education ranked among the nation’s best in a new survey by "U.S. News and World Report."

UC Santa Cruz named one of the country’s best colleges for undergraduate film majors

UC Santa Cruz is featured in a Top 10 list of Best Bachelor’s Program for Film, Video and Photographic Arts along with USC, NYU, UC Berkeley, UCLA, and Rhode Island School of Design.

Alumni Weekend keynote to feature co-chair of Women's March on Washington

Alumna Carmen Perez, longtime community organizer, activist, and a national co-chair of one of the largest demonstrations in history, will speak on the role and importance of protest with a purpose.

Flowering times shift with loss of species from a grassland ecosystem

Loss of biodiversity may exacerbate changes in the timing of biological events already being driven by climate change, study finds.

Study shows how river channels adjust to large sediment supplies

New findings undermine a common assumption about gravel-bedded river channels.

Community Crime Bulletin: Attempted Robbery (664PC/211PC 17–263)

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is seeking community assistance in identifying a suspect who attempted to take a cell phone and keys from a student walking on Coolidge Drive, near the 20 mph curve.

Reef madness: A coral grows at UC Santa Cruz

Hundreds of students and community members are contributing their handiwork to the Crochet Coral Reef, a massive participatory art project that combines higher geometry with handicraft while calling attention to the disappearing wonders of the marine world.

ITS Service Announcement: Canvas at UCSC is now available

The new UCSC Learning Management System, Canvas, is now available. Faculty who are teaching in spring may log in and begin adding content to their pre-created course shells. Faculty who wish to work on courses for future quarters or experiment with Canvas can request a test course.

Giving Day 2017 raises more than $520,000 for a wealth of worthy projects

The spirit of friendly competition added excitement to this 24-hour online giving fest, which raised money for a wide array of good causes.

Study supports increased funding for long-term ecological research

Despite critical importance to scientists and policymakers, funding for long-term ecological and environmental studies has declined while funding for short-term studies has increased.

Restorative justice circle to foster dialogue around sexual violence/sexual harassment

The session, part of the campus’s Beyond Compliance initiative, will be from 7–9 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15 at the Namaste Lounge in Colleges 9/10.

Swipes for Slugs

The Dean of Students Office in collaboration with the Global Food Initiative and UCSC Dining is set to launch Swipes for Slugs this week.

Film professor Shelley Stamp wins 2017 international media and history book prize

Film and digital media professor Shelley Stamp has been named the recipient of the 2017 Michael Nelson Book Prize, presented by the International Association for Media and History for her latest book, "Lois Weber in Early Hollywood."

Need a Career Tracks Huddle?

As we continue to work together to complete the launch of Career Tracks at UC Santa Cruz, we are pleased to offer additional "My Classification" Individual Employee Forums this week.

Social Sciences dean candidates visiting campus

During their visits, candidates will present a Dean’s vision talk as well as a scholarly presentation that will be followed by a public reception.

Astronomer Ruth Murray-Clay appointed to chair in theoretical astrophysics

Investiture ceremony honors Murray-Clay as the inaugural holder of the E. K. Gunderson Family Chair in Theoretical Astrophysics

Sexual violence/sexual harassment community building circle

Students, staff and faculty are invited to participate in our Community Building Circle to open the potential for dialogue and healing regarding the impact of incidents of sexual violence and sexual harassment on campus.

Dean Paul Koch receives 'Insight Into Diversity' magazine's Giving Back Award

National award honors university administrators for their commitment to diversity and for giving back to others

Gift from Narinder Kapany will establish Sikh book collection and study room at McHenry Library

UC Santa Cruz has received a gift from Dr. Narinder Kapany to establish the Sundar Singh Kapany Book Collection and the Sundar Singh Kapany Group Study Room in the University Library.

UCSC Grad Slam winner envisions surfing on shrimp shells

John Felts, a second year Ph.D. electrical engineering student, earned top marks for his talk about creating environmentally friendly surfboard foam from shrimp shells.

ITS Announcement: Protecting your laptop and ensuring data security

In carrying out the mission of UC Santa Cruz, many of us work with confidential and restricted data. All of us must remain vigilant in protecting this information.

Red Cross staff and faculty blood drive this month

The Staff Advisory Board is sponsoring a Red Cross blood drive for staff and faculty on March 15 at the Stevenson Event Center.

With more than 100 featured projects, UC Santa Cruz hosts Giving Day 2017

The website site will go live at 12:01 a.m. on March 8 for donors to make gifts and track their favorite projects in real-time. Giving Day 2017 builds on the success of last year’s event, when nearly 3,000 donors came together to collectively give $340,000.

Campaign for UC Santa Cruz enters home stretch

The campaign is the university’s first campuswide effort to build a culture of giving in support of students, faculty, and campus programs. Launched in 2009 and publicly announced in fall 2013, the campaign has raised $311 million in gifts.

In Memoriam: Mary Zavanelli (1955 - 2017)

Mary Zavanelli began teaching for the biology department in 1995 and continued for 21 years as a full-time lecturer.

Responding to increased parking demand

Fall quarter saw a record-breaking demand for both parking permits and parking spaces on our campus. While some areas have improved since then (such as capacity at the East Remote lot), others have not. I'd like to provide you with a parking update, and efforts we're making to improve the situation.

We stand with the transgender community

In the wake of President Trump's repeal this week of federal protections for transgender students in public schools, we are proud to state that our campus commitment to transgender members of our community is absolutely unchanged.

Vast luminous nebula poses a cosmic mystery

Glowing nebula appears to be part of the cosmic web of filaments connecting galaxies, but what's lighting it up?

Canvas Live for Spring 2017

ITS is pleased to announce that the new Learning Management System (LMS) Canvas at UCSC will launch for spring quarter.

Men's volleyball ranks No. 2 in division

Each week committees from around the country in each division study the week’s match ups to determine the best teams.

George Bunch wins American Education Research Association award

George Bunch, associate professor of education, is the winner of the 2017 Second Language Research Special Interest Group Midcareer Award.

The Conversation editor to encourage faculty expertise on pressing issues

Winter rains causing widespread hardships

This winter is setting rainfall records—and trying the patience of many of us who have been impacted by road closures, power outages, flooding, downed trees, and other hazards.

UCSC biomolecular engineer Russ Corbett-Detig wins Sloan Research Fellowship

Corbett-Detig studies evolution and genetic diversity in species ranging from fruit flies to humans.

Curating the African American and Holocaust museums in a post-fact world

UC Santa Cruz will present a free public discussion about building museums, engaging the public, and how to represent difficult memories on Feb. 22 at Kresge Town Hall.

Oscar nominee ‘I Am Not Your Negro’ to screen with panel discussion at Del Mar Theater

UC Santa Cruz will present a film screening of "I Am Not Your Negro"--an award-winning documentary on the life and work of writer James Baldwin, followed by a panel discussion, Feb. 21, at the Del Mar Theater

Farm volunteer docent training starts March 9

The seven-session docent training for volunteers at the UC Santa Cruz Farm begins on Thursday, March 9.

UPDATE: Seeking community assistance in water damage / 594 PC - Vandalism (Case #17-172)

UC Santa Cruz receives $191,000 grant to benefit grad students in humanities, arts, social sciences

UC Santa Cruz is one of five universities nationwide selected by the Social Science Research Council (SSRC) to be part of its new University Initiative program.

Diversity, inclusivity key to a growing economy

The face of small business is shifting. From 2007–2012, Latino-owned businesses in the U.S. grew by 34.5 percent and African American-owned enterprises grew by 46.3 percent. A quarter of all new businesses were started by immigrants.

Donation by rugby alumnus lights up Lower East Field

The lights turned on this month, thanks to a generous donation by rugby alumnus George Kraw (1971), who played mostly “lock” and “break-away” on the first rugby team in 1967.

Hummingbird Day at the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is Saturday, March 4

Hummingbird Day is a family-oriented event celebrating one of nature’s vibrant aerial acrobats, the hummingbird.

Seeking community assistance in water damage / 594 PC - Vandalism (Case #17-172)

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department is seeking the community’s assistance in identifying two men who may have turned on an emergency shower on the second floor of Sinsheimer Laboratories, causing damage.

GameSpace offers a playable visualization of 16,000 videogames

UCSC researchers developed the game as a tool to help people find information about videogames.

Film professor contributes to new PBS documentary on race in America

UC Santa Cruz assistant professor of film and digital media Jennifer Maytorena Taylor has produced one of several short pieces that comprise The Talk: Race in America, a new film premiering Feb. 20 on PBS.

Astronomy team releases planet-search data, finds more than 100 candidates

The HIRES spectrometer, designed and built by UCSC astronomer Steven Vogt, has been a planet-hunting workhorse for over two decades.

Formal review of proposed systemwide policy on unmanned aircraft systems

The policy is to establish minimum standards for the safe use and operation of UAS and Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS), including drones and model aircraft, on any university location or at any authorized university activity.

'Ecosystems of California' book wins PROSE Award for Excellence

Coedited by UCSC ecologist Erika Zavaleta, the book won two prestigious awards from the Association of American Publishers.

School lunch programs offer healthier, tastier fare

Across the state, schoolchildren are enjoying healthier, more nutritious school lunches thanks to a wave of support from school districts, the University of California, and a host of organizations that includes UC Santa Cruz-based Life Lab.

Upcoming Career Tracks Support Events

Music professor receives patent to help fight bark beetles ravaging Western forests

UC Santa Cruz music professor David Dunn has joined forces with two forest scientists from Northern Arizona University to combat an insect infestation that is killing millions of trees throughout the West.

High-demand courses to be offered in summer session

The focus for summer 2017 is to offer high-demand courses in small class sizes. There will be 20 online courses, up from 11 last summer, as well as more than 250 on-campus courses across 30 departments.

Chancellor appointed to governing board of state stem cell agency

Chancellor George Blumenthal has been appointed to a seat on the governing board of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine.

Welcome visitors to campus this spring

As you may already know, interest in UCSC is at an all-time high with over 62,000 applications for fall 2017. UCSC’s growing reputation for successfully preparing undergraduate students for the next phase in their lives is due to the incredible work of the entire campus community.

The mighty Phyllis returns after record-shattering swim

The tagged elephant seal's landing at Año Nuevo means she swam about 7,400 miles, longer than any elephant seal recorded over two decades—then she gave birth to a baby boy.

Drought identified as key to severity of West Nile virus epidemics

Researchers found that drought dramatically increases the severity of West Nile virus epidemics in the United States.

Storm impacts on campus, community

The current storm system has led to flooding and a series of landslides throughout Santa Cruz County.

Waves Passing in the Night: a talk about astrophysics, harmony, and boundaries

Acclaimed writer and UC Santa Cruz alumnus Lawrence Weschler will join Academy Award-winning sound and film editor Walter Murch, and noted campus astronomer Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz on Feb. 13, in the Music Center Recital Hall.

UCSC climate conference draws top scientists, policy makers Feb. 24-25

UCSC will host a national conference on climate change featuring top climate scientists and policy experts from across the country.

Black hole meal sets record for length and size

New observations confirm a theoretical model developed by UCSC astrophysicists of a black hole tearing apart a star.

Pay for Performance Update Appraisal Period will remain July 1 – June 30

We are remaining on the current cycle of July 1 – June 30.

Marlene Tromp selected as UC Santa Cruz campus provost and executive vice chancellor

Tromp will serve as the chief academic officer and provide academic leadership to UC Santa Cruz.

University presidents ask Trump to 'rectify or rescind' immigration order

Chancellor George Blumenthal joined 47 other U.S. college and university presidents in signing the letter.

Community Crime Bulletin: Online scam targeting campus community (17-091, 17-093, 17-094)

The UC Santa Cruz Police Department has been notified of a scam being perpetrated on students through Slug Quest, the employment opportunity website managed by the campus Career Center.

Welcoming Marlene Tromp to UC Santa Cruz

Tromp, vice provost at Arizona State University's West Campus and a professor of English and women and gender studies, will arrive on campus June 1.

Crochet coral reef exhibition to open Feb. 10 at Mary Porter Sesnon Gallery

"Crochet Coral Reef: CO2CA-CO2LA Ocean," an exhibition by Margaret and Christine Wertheim and the Institute For Figuring, is an artistic response to global warming and the growing problem of plastic trash accumulating in the ocean.

Multicultural Career Conference poised to celebrate 30 years

The Multicultural Career Conference is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary in early February, marking a long history of connecting students with alumni who know the challenges of beginning a career.

ITS Service Outage Notice: Campus Directory, CruzID Manager, Campus Telephones

Sexual assault and harassment on campus

Our campus, despite widely shared progressive values and a commitment to social justice, is not immune to the scourge of sexual assault and sexual harassment. We want you to know what we are doing to build a campus culture that does not tolerate sexual misconduct of any kind, and invite you to join us.

Proposed Revised Presidential Policy Business and Finance Bulletin (BFB) – G-28, Travel Regulations

Report of sexual assault allegations against former faculty member

As soon as these allegations were reported, the campus acted swiftly to address the victim’s claims, which appeared to be clear violations of the UC Santa Cruz policy on sexual violence and sexual harassment.

Police launch website mapping crime reports on campus

The website gives users the option to narrow a search by date and type of crime report.

Sandra Chung to deliver 51st annual Faculty Research Lecture

UC Santa Cruz professor of linguistics Sandra Chung will deliver the 51st annual Faculty Research Lecture on Tuesday, February 7, at 7 p.m. at the Music Recital Hall in the Performing Arts Complex.

Science Internship Program creates opportunities for high school students

SIP alumni and their families are raising funds to extend the program's reach and support need-based scholarships.

A reimagined Science and Engineering Library

By Herbert Lee, Interim Campus Provost/Executive Vice Chancellor — Saws are whirring on an innovative project to reshape undergraduate science education. Construction crews are converting the Science & Engineering Library’s S.H. Cowell Room into a 99-seat active learning classroom. The classroom, a first of its kind for our campus, is set to open next fall and is a significant first step in a multi-phased renovation for this library.

New director of Risk Services appointed

Stefani Khaleel has been hired to serve as the director of Risk Services.

UC Santa Cruz launches Murray Baumgarten Endowed Chair in Jewish Studies

UC Santa Cruz has established an endowed chair to honor the person most responsible for the thriving Jewish Studies program that exists on the campus today.

End of the pipeline

In a new book, Professor Flora Lu looks at the oil industry's impact on the Waorani, an indigenous Ecuadorian population living in a region renowned for its ecological diversity.

Appointment of chief campus counsel

Our new campus counsel,Lorena Peñaloza, will be starting on campus March 1.

Update on power optimization

Physical Planning and Construction is in the midst of a cogen optimization project that will provide uninterrupted power to buildings on Science Hill, even when PG&E's service cuts out.

City, university wharf partnership earns Silicon Valley award

The GreenWharf is a suite of collaborative projects that together minimize the footprint of wharf operations on the surrounding environment while enhancing its appeal as a visitor destination.

New book explores why the discovery of sex in plants took so long

The scandalous idea of sexual reproduction in plants was hotly debated for 150 years before finally gaining acceptance in the 19th century.

Reorganization of campus life unit

I am writing to announce changes to the campus life organizational framework.

UC Santa Cruz receives $2.2 million for innovation and entrepreneurship program

New support program will help bring research innovations to the marketplace and spur economic development in the Santa Cruz area.

Cowell Ranch Hay Barn wins architectural awards

The Cowell Ranch Hay Barn has won two architectural awards: a 2016 Excellence in Design Honor Award from American Institute of Architects Montana, and the 2017 U.S. WoodWorks Regional Excellence Award from the Wood Products Council.

UC Global Food Initiative launches free online toolkit for schools

The UC Global Food Initiative has launched a free online toolkit to help schools teach healthy eating habits and provide nutritious, sustainable food to students.

Flu season

Your best protection against the flu is to get a flu shot. Students can get a flu shot at the Student Health Center pharmacy or at a pharmacy downtown. Faculty and staff should get their flu shot from their private provider or at an off campus pharmacy.

Training on upcoming Career Tracks Launch

We are writing to notify everyone that the Career Tracks Team and Karen Berardi from Office of the President will host a Town Hall series.

UC Santa Cruz hosts Northern California High School Ethics Bowl

Each winter, high school students from Salinas to Marin County travel to Santa Cruz to participate in the Northern California High School Ethics Bowl.

Strike activity on campus ends; both campus entrances clear

The University of California has been informed that strike activities are planned on UC campuses and medical centers on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017.

Water line damaged; emergency conservation required

Storm damage to a pipeline has severely constrained water deliveries to the city of Santa Cruz, including the campus, and all residents are being asked to immediately reduce their water use by 30 percent.

Access advocate Haben Girma to speak on campus

Girma's talk is part of Allies for Inclusion: The Ability Exhibit, a traveling interactive display created to build awareness about people with disabilities.

In Memoriam: Emilie Inman

Emilie Inman graduated in Spring 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies.

Axel Alonso: Diversity’s superhero

Alumnus Axel Alonso, editor-in-chief at Marvel Comics, has worked to make comic book characters and their creators reflect our diverse world.

Jan. 18 teach-in highlights activism in the Trump era

UC Santa Cruz joins UCLA, UC Berkeley, and other college campuses for a nationwide day of democratic education and action

In Memoriam: Dane Archer

Professor Dane Archer joined the UCSC faculty in 1972, and was an expert in verbal and nonverbal communication; violence, war, and peace; social psychology; cross-national research; and crime and law

Arrival of our new Campus Diversity Officer for Staff and Students

It is a pleasure to announce the arrival of our new Campus Diversity Officer for Staff and Students. Teresa Maria Linda Scholz joined UC Santa Cruz on January 5.

Powerful winter storm expected this weekend

The National Weather Service is predicting that more than a foot of rain could fall in the region, with mountain communities being the most susceptible to storm impacts.

Santa Cruz receives $450,000 grant to study economic inclusivity in emerging countries

UC Santa Cruz will test and refine the foundation’s emerging inclusive economies framework in geographic contexts and markets.

UC Santa Cruz will host annual hackathon January 20 to 22

Hack UCSC 2017 will draw software developers, designers, and entrepreneurs for a coding marathon.

BAS Institute offers staff insight into campus processes, policies

Business and Administrative Services (BAS) next month will roll out a new program designed to help staff navigate the multitude of processes and policies in the areas of Travel & Entertainment, Compensation, Recruitment & Talent Acquisition, and Procurement.

Formal review/campus community comment for the Environmental, Health & Safety Policy

The purpose of the policy is to establish a baseline of minimum standard for all University of California locations and ensure compliance with all applicable health, safety, and environmental regulations. 

Notice of new law prohibiting state funding of travel to certain states

As AB 1887 applies to the university, it prohibits state funds from being used to pay for travel to a state that authorizes discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression; or voids or repeals existing state or local protections against such discrimination.

UC Santa Cruz engineers work with Samsung on promising new memory technology

Innovations in "spintronics" have led some to predict the eventual emergence of a universal memory technology to replace all others.

Taking UCSC Home during Spring Break

Taking UCSC Home grants a unique opportunity for current UCSC students to develop valuable professional skills while encouraging higher education within their communities.

Winter meditation schedule, special session set for Jan. 19

The sessions are free and open to faculty, staff, and students. No prior meditation experience is needed. The exercises are nondenominational and secular.

Scheduled labor strike on January 10

At this time, we do not know how these strike activities will impact the operation of our campus.

Looking ahead

Chancellor Blumenthal looks ahead to what's in store for UC Santa Cruz in 2017.

Power outage at main campus

Power has been restored to all of the main campus.

Moore Foundation grant funds UC Santa Cruz groundwater sustainability project

The $854,000 grant supports research and solutions for the sustainability of groundwater in California.

Geologist Gary Griggs to speak on natural disasters at Rio Theater on January 19

'Perils in Paradise' talk will give a brief history of geology and natural disasters in Santa Cruz County.

Physicist Joel Primack to serve as president of scientific honor society Sigma Xi

The scientific research honor society Sigma Xi has announced the election of Primack as president-elect designee.