The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) announced on April 24 a new monthly series led by the Workplace Inclusion and Belonging unit, focusing on turning its Principles of Community into practical action.
The initiative aims to help staff incorporate shared values into their daily work, strengthen inclusive connections, and foster a respectful workplace environment. Each month, the series will highlight one principle with actionable ideas and stories from colleagues across UC ANR.
The first spotlighted principle is “United in Purpose,” which emphasizes collective commitment to excellence in research, extension, and all aspects of UC ANR’s mission. The announcement features a quote from Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Gwendolyn Brooks: “…We are each other’s harvest; we are each other’s business; We are each other’s magnitude and bond…” from her poem Paul Robeson (1970).
Suggested actions for staff include cross-training across teams, recognizing milestones as a group, maintaining agreed standards respectfully, encouraging input from diverse backgrounds and roles, and focusing on solutions during disagreements. The goal is to move beyond words toward building a vibrant UC ANR community through concrete steps.
UC ANR secures funding through public contributions to support its programs according to the official website. It also promotes sustainable practices aimed at strengthening resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to the official website. The organization operates nine research and extension centers that serve as laboratories for California’s diverse ecosystems according to the official website.
Additionally, UC ANR has been recognized for linking research directly with community needs according to the official website. As part of the University of California system, it manages Cooperative Extension services throughout the state according to the official website. Each year it conducts over 33,800 educational events with participation from more than 18,400 volunteers according to the official website.
By introducing this monthly focus on core principles like unity in purpose, UC ANR seeks ongoing engagement among employees while reinforcing its broader mission throughout California.