This last week had its peaks and valleys. We are closely watching weather updates and predictions as more rain is heading our way.
Many heard the news that Richard (Dick) Rosenberg passed away at 92 years strong. His philanthropy will forever be remembered. For ANR, the Rosenberg International Forum serves to reduce conflict and promote cooperation in management of water resources. The endowment supporting this work began in 1996. As one article said his "attention to details, drove change and made a huge difference". The same article quoted his son Peter “He always said no matter what success you have in life, you can never enjoy it unless you're using that success to help others.” Dick's mission of making the world a better place is inspirational. I highly recommend a quick internet search to learn more about this amazing man and see similarities between all of us at ANR and his life's mission.
Tuesday was a super mentoring event for both staff and academics held in the Valley rooms. It was exciting to greet everyone and welcome them to their ANR family. We had a wonderful mix of mentors and mentees. Thank you to everyone who took part in the event. The energy in the room could have powered the building all day! The group met together and then split for more detailed information specific to staff or academics. A huge shout out to retired advisors John Karlik and Glenn McGourty for participating as mentors. As a reminder to everyone working in ANR—please remember to put you on your calendar! No matter your role in ANR, carve out time each week or month to reflect on accomplishments; what went well; and where improvements can be made. Make a habit of reflection so you see your value regularly. Set aside time for professional growth. It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind of work. File articles that look interesting, intriguing news pieces, a UC training, a TED talk, or any other opportunity to grow. Make time to dig in and learn at least monthly.
March 3rd was the first day for Elizabeth Moon, Director of Workplace Inclusion and Belonging. Director Moon is busy mapping out ANR. She's excited about our mission and encouraged by all the work being done within ANR surrounding diversity, equity, inclusion and justice. Please introduce yourself to Elizabeth. Her office is in Davis at 2nd Street.
Internal submissions are sought for the National Extension Awards. Three awards exist: Extension Diversity, Individual Excellence in Extension and Team Excellence in Extension. The application process isn't painful. We have incredibly strong programs in California and should have strong applicants in all three categories if people take time to complete the survey.
Welcome new hires in January: Grace Dean (Comm Specialist, Central Sierra Nevada MCP), Adolfo Limon (Financial Analyst, Resource Planning and Management) and Agron Kllogjri (General Accountant, Financial Services); students Jayla Pollard and Yasmeen Castro Guillen, Sutter/Yuba; Gema Gutierrez, Desert REC; Liam Gravvat, Human Resources; and Giovanna Bavaro, Riverside County.
The California CARET (Council for Agricultural Research, Extension and Teaching) members and the Administrative Heads Section (AHS) of the Association of Public & Land-grant Universities (APLU) meets Sunday and Monday in D.C. This year's theme is Ag is the Answer: Building Land-grant Solutions for Global Food, Agriculture, and Resource Challenges. After the meetings, our delegation will do hill visits and meet with elected officials' staff. It will be an an exciting week.