The University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) announced on Mar. 23 a new monthly series led by the Workplace Inclusion and Belonging unit to highlight its Principles of Community, beginning with the principle of integrity.
The initiative aims to help staff put shared values into action, encouraging practical steps for building a more respectful and inclusive environment at UC ANR. Each month, the series will focus on a different principle, offering guidance on how to incorporate these values into daily work life.
According to UC ANR, “Integrity is crucial…You must do what you say you will do, stay true to your values and always strive to do what is right, now what is easy,” quoting Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization in 2021. The organization encourages teams to define how core values are exemplified within their groups by taking accountability for outcomes, maintaining candid communication about difficult issues, ensuring honest interactions among colleagues, and respecting individual preferences in workplace exchanges.
UC ANR secures funding through public contributions that support its programs according to the official website. The organization promotes sustainable practices aimed at strengthening resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to the official website. Its nine research and extension centers serve as laboratories representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to the official website.
Part of the University of California system managing Cooperative Extension services according to the official website, UC ANR conducts over 33,800 educational events annually with participation from more than 18,400 volunteers according to the official website. Through these efforts across all 58 counties in California—delivering science-based information via workshops and partnerships—the organization supports environmental stewardship and community development while mobilizing volunteers and research centers for statewide impact according to the official website.
The monthly spotlight seeks not only to motivate staff but also provide achievable ideas for fostering a vibrant workplace culture grounded in ethical principles.