the current

from the SAC Chair

Prioritizing the growth of UC ANR staff

In the Samoan language, we have a proverb: “O le ala i le pule o le tautua,” which translates to, “the pathway to leadership is through service.”

When I joined Staff Assembly Council a year ago, I questioned whether my short time with ANR would affect my ability to support my colleagues effectively. It was that same mindset, however, that encouraged me to set an example, especially for those who are early in their career or new to ANR. The reality is that ANR is stronger when it prioritizes the growth of its people, and that’s exactly what SAC 2023-24 did for me. 

Today, I am pleased to continue serving staff statewide and represent SAC as the incoming Chair. Over the last year, we gained major momentum across our programs and introduced SAC to more staff who weren’t aware of our existence and our efforts to improve employee experiences for all.

As we prepare for SAC's new year, I am enthusiastic about creating a culture of collaboration, developing pathways for professional development, ensuring ANR remains actively engaged in the relevant spaces, and having fun throughout the process! Please reach out to me at ssope@ucanr.edu any time to share ideas, raise concerns or just to say "hi."

I am privileged to lead the incoming SAC members for 2024-25 (see below) and hope, more than anything, to inspire them to direct their respective programs with the same consideration and artistry that led to their creation. In other words, I am looking forward to fulfilling the Samoan proverb that reminds me that leadership is not a right, it is earned, nor is it based on who you are, but what you do.  

Saoimanu "Saoi" Sope

Staff Assembly Council Chair, 2024-2025

election results

Introducing UC ANR Staff Assembly Council for 2024-2025

A new group of Staff Assembly Council members for 2024-2025 was elected during the May SAC meeting. The new Council is composed of both returning and new SAC members.

Chair: Saoimanu Sope

Vice Chair: Andrea Warner

CUCSA Delegates: Christine Davidson, Shirley Salado

Treasurer: Tracy Roman

Communications Chair: Melissa Womack

Ambassador Chair: Javier Miramontes

Educational Reimbursement Co-Chairs: Mishelle Costa, Rosa Vargas

Wellness Co-Chairs: Lindsey Pedroncelli, Roxana Price

Join us in congratulating these SAC members, and be sure to check your July issue of The Current to learn more about them!

We also thank the outgoing members for their many contributions on SAC: Jodi Azulai, Scott Brayton, Monica Drazba, Brooke Haley-Herevia, Mike Hsu, Dohee Kim, Sue Lake and Kathryn Stein.

CUCSA award presentation

On May 21, outgoing SAC Chair Scott Brayton presented Vice President Glenda Humiston with the Outstanding Senior Leadership Award from CUCSA, the Council of UC Staff Assemblies. The award recognizes senior-level UC leaders who are supportive and inclusive of UC staff and who encourage equity, diversity, inclusion and community. UC ANR CUCSA delegates Shirley Salado and Christine Davidson led efforts to nominate Glenda.

learning & development highlights

Seats still available for UC peer-to-peer coaching opportunity through Imperative

As part of UC ANR’s focus on developing and retaining our people, we are building a community of peers supporting each other through guided conversations on Imperative. This platform will help you develop a network of trusted peers while focusing on your growth and impact. Watch video to see how it works.

To participate in guided peer-coaching conversations with employees at other UC locations, fill in your purpose profile by June 14. This is a first-come, first-served process.

Check the UC ANR Learning & Development website for more workshops, webinars and classes.