As Larry Forero and I were driving around last week he asked me what has impressed me most about UC ANR. My answer remains the same as it was back in July – the caliber of people throughout the entire system. Some might be tired of hearing me say that, but it is true! If you've been around the U.S. at different institutions like I have, all of which are top rate, you would know exactly what I mean. Travelling the state, I've had an opportunity to get just a small glimpse of how strong the local programs are and see firsthand the talent that delivers the programs as well as appreciate the hard work and skill that takes place in Davis and Oakland to pull it all together. For several months I wondered how so much was accomplished and the bottom line is that it is because of how good the people are within and across the division. But no question we all want to see the numbers of personnel continue the current path of growth. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by people and an organization that is filled with high performers – it pushes me to try to be better and seek continuous improvement. I hope that I don't become so settled into the division that I take the human capital in UCCE/UC ANR for granted.

Just one tiny example of the amazing work conducted within UC ANR was recently posted by Mark Hoddle and Mary Lu Arpaia. They share how their research program has application and extension to Tanzania. Be sure to take a look at: http://cisr.ucr.edu/blog/avocados/stepping-challenge-uc-global-food-initiative-improving-avocado-production-tanzania/ and stay up on what they are doing. Mark also sent me a nice glossy piece on the South American Palm Weevil. Mark says, “This pest is going to waste 1000's of palms in CA”. As an animal scientist, I have to admit I jump a bit when I open something with a big bug on the front cover, so I will spare everyone by not including a photo. But thanks for sending Mark!

Another exciting thing happening this week is a Strategic Communications Planning Workshop between the UC ANR Communications team, the Communications Advisory Board and a facilitator. I cannot wait to drop in tomorrow as the group wraps up their planning and hear about the creative ideas they have developed. Also in the Davis building this week is a Juntos Para Una Mejor Educacion (Together for a better education) training. Please forgive the hyperlink to an Iowa State University Extension website but it contains great information about the program and I did bleed cardinal and gold for a while, after all. I saw Lupita from afar but I have not had a chance to touch base with her and the team so hopefully I will get a chance to pop in there tomorrow as well. So much going on, all of it good!

Welcome to all of our new academics and staff! Have you met Natalie Price or Gerardo Spinelli yet? Natalie Price just started last week and is the Area Nutrition, Family and Consumer Science Advisor for Los Angeles and Orange Counties, headquartered in Alhambra. Gerardo starts next week as the Area Vegetable Production & Irrigation Advisor covering Stanislaus, San Joaquin and Merced counties. It is exciting to see the list of academics that have been joining UC ANR and those that will be joining soon. Did you know there is a place where you can get a list of new academics, with start dates, coverage area and program area? Find it here: http://ucanr.edu/sites/anrstaff/Personnel_Benefits/Academic_Personnel/ under Status of Recruitments and Hires. We are on a path of growth of personnel. Projections are for continued growth of 5 academics per year. When I talked with Chris Greer about this recently he said we are up to 165 Advisors so let's keep that trend going with Advisors, Specialists and staff!