2017  Faculty News

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.

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.

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.

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.

Undocumented journalist describes immigrant experience, American dream

Jose Antonio Vargas was invited to speak on campus as part of Kresge College's Media and Society Lecture Series and for the students in Kresge's Core course.

Navigating the path toward inclusion and equity

As Campus Diversity Officer Teresa Maria Linda Scholz nears her one-year anniversary on the job, she reflects on her work so far, where we are, and how far we have to go.

'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Dean Alex Wolf leads growing engineering school in era of technological change

As he begins his second full academic year as dean, Alex Wolf discusses his first year and his plans for the future of the engineering school in a wide-ranging interview.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Quarry Amphitheater poised to rock again

The campus community is invited to celebrate its re-opening at noon on Thursday, Oct. 19, and the local community is invited to see it as part of Founders Celebration from 2–4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21.

Sustainability plan charts course forward

By Elida Erickson, Sustainability Director — The campus community is invited to learn more about the new sustainability plan during an Oct. 19 kick-off event at the Arboretum.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

New faculty further campus scholarship, research

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

Move-in 2017: Jittery nerves and words of wisdom

Move-in week at UC Santa Cruz was a time for parental advice, long goodbyes, meeting roommates, exploring the wooded campus and making "fast friends."

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.

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.

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.

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.

Campus moving forward with Kresge renewal

In the coming years, UC Santa Cruz will embark on an extensive two-phase renewal and revitalization of Kresge College.

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.

Beyond Compliance to launch ambitious education, outreach initiative

Beyond Compliance—the UC Santa Cruz initiative to engage faculty in reshaping campus culture with the goal of creating an environment free from sexual violence and sexual harassment—has announced an ambitious, multi-year plan to move the campus closer to this future.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Giving fish a fighting chance

Alumnus Brycen Swart identified how warmer river temperatures were hurting Chinook salmon fry—and he earned a medal for conserving them.

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.

'Sierra' magazine names UC Santa Cruz a ‘Cool School’

Coming in at No.23, the ranking underscored UC Santa Cruz’s strong commitment to protecting the environment, addressing climate change, and encouraging sustainability.

Diseased poplars to be removed near campus entrance

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Telling stories that haven't been told

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Ensure your campus mail is getting delivered

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

'Be so good they can’t ignore you'

Creative obsession and hard work led alumnus Kalen Egan to his role in producing one of Amazon’s most popular television series, The Man in the High Castle.

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.

'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.”

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.

Diving in: Students in beginning swim class learn more than the backstroke

Students who never learned to swim are gaining confidence and relieving stress in level 1 swim class—as well as opening themselves up to new possibilities such as surfing and scuba diving.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pioneering biologist Robert L. Sinsheimer dies at age 97

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

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.

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!

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”.

Draft sustainability plan open for feedback

The draft Campus Sustainability Plan is available for review and input. The deadline to submit feedback is April 30, 2017.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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.

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.

Men’s rugby headed to playoffs

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

Alumnus takes students into Africa

Melvin Cox's Focus on Africa class has taken more than a dozen students to the continent over the past two years, showing another side of Africa—one that is multiethnic and multicultural, with thriving cities and economic opportunities.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Saving victims of deadly toxic mushrooms

Alumnus Todd Mitchell headed a clinical trial on using an extract of milk thistle seeds to overcome toxic mushroom poisoning and developed what has come to be known as the "Santa Cruz Protocol."

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Reorganization of campus life unit

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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. 

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.