So far, so good in Ontario. I have some homework as a result of the PAC meeting that was held on Monday, but it was something I really needed to do anyway. My ‘responsibilities' for the statewide conference 2018 are over. I think the keynote speakers, both Karen Ross and Antwi Akom were a hit! Antwi mentioned a book, Just Mercy, which I need to look into, though I'm not a big reader. Perhaps there is a TED-talk-style, abridged version.

I've heard great things about a number of the sessions and have been discussing some follow-up ideas to build on concepts covered during some of those sessions. It would be a disappointment if we all left the meeting, got caught up in our obligations and programs, and didn't continue the conversations. I've heard some fabulous ideas, from displaying the SI posters in the ANR building to offering some of the most popular sessions to all of ANR via future Zoom sessions, and all of the ideas deserve further discussion. I've discovered who not to negotiate real estate sales with and had the privilege of awarding the 2018 UC ANR Distinguished Service Awards to a number of truly deserving individuals and teams for their impactful work. Imagine achieving 95% compliance with water quality regulations or a 500% growth in Latino enrollment! This is why I have no doubt that if we all start thinking about how we can come together, brainstorm then improve upon ideas, we can surpass our vision.

This evening was the Staff Assembly Council meeting. It was a lot of fun. The planning group did a great job providing updates, and overview of the Council, and having games as well as networking. Kudos to all who were involved in putting that together and thanks for the invitation!

My sense is that tonight will be a quiet evening. Several have had to head back home to fulfill other obligations. Others need to catch up on email or sleep. And still others are finalizing preparations for their sessions tomorrow. Tomorrow afternoon, the New Academic Peer Cohort meets. They represent our future UC ANR – an impressive group with big dreams and strong ideals. I can't wait to spend a couple hours with them identifying how we can position them for success.

Though nothing is ever perfect, and we will always strive for continuous improvement I hope everyone left the meeting feeling like part of something bigger than themselves, part of something amazing, a force that can change California for the better.