I was expecting to see more snow. Then, as I neared the east border of Place County, I saw it. The mountains above Donner Lake are deep in snow. For whatever reason, snow-covered mountains give me a sense of calm and that all is right in the world.
I'm in Reno for the next couple of days. The CE Advisors and some of the program staff who work in the counties that border Nevada are meeting with their peers from the University of Nevada that work in counties bordering California. The goal of meeting our neighbors is to share what we are doing, independently, and see what opportunities exist to work together. Ivory, the Extension Director for the University of Nevada, and I are merely here to welcome the group, encourage conversation, then get out of the way. Maybe new partnerships will develop, maybe new ideas to bring back to our own programs, or maybe a chance to see colleagues from our own state – we won't know until we give it a try.
I will work on merit and promotion packages during much of the time that the Advisors and Community Educators meet with their Nevada colleagues. Right now, I have 13 packages that still need a first review. The Peer Review Committee met this week to develop their recommendations for each package. They were working so hard, they didn't even break for UC Walks. A few members squeezed in a lap around the Davis ANR building, but then it was back to work.
The President's Advisory Committee met this week. A key part of the meeting was reviewing the purpose of the Committee and starting a discussion about the future role and function of the Committee. Committee members are busy people but very strong advocates for UC ANR so we want to be efficient in asking anything of any member. Conversation will continue between now and the fall meeting.
Looking forward to a trip back through Truckee though it will be a test of my phone reception as I have some calls to take during the trek. Might just have to pull over and enjoy the view for a bit.