UCOP Learning and Development is thrilled to continue sponsoring UC Peer Connections. This self-driven UC peer-to-peer networking program aims to enhance employee connection and belonging within UCOP and across the system through meaningful relationships.

Participating colleagues are paired with peers at UCOP and other UC locations (including UC Berkeley and UC Agriculture and Natural Resources) based on their career level, interests and aspirations. In general, managers will be matched with fellow managers and individual contributors will be matched with peers at their level to ensure a balanced and comfortable exchange. Participants meet virtually on the Imperative platform, which is designed to facilitate authentic career conversations through guided questions and discussions.

Develop a network of trusted peers while focusing on your growth and impact!

How UC Peer Connections works

• Selected participants will activate their Imperative account and complete a 15-minute “Purpose Profile” that articulates their values, aspirations and career drivers.
• Based on purpose profiles, participants will be matched with a peer with whom they will schedule and participate in one-hour virtual conversations.
• Pairs will meet on the Imperative Platform, where they will have specific questions to guide discussion and allow for note-taking on next steps. Conversations are private and are not recorded.

Program cycles

The 2025 – 2026 program will consist of three cycles. Participants are expected to participate in at least two cycles with different pairings.

• Cycle 1: Navigating Change
  • Sept. 15, 2025 – Dec. 12, 2025
  • Five total conversations with pairs at UC Berkeley & UC ANR

• Cycle 2: Start the Year with Connection
  • Jan. 13, 2026 – Feb. 27, 2026
  • Three total conversations with pairs at UCOP

• Cycle 3: Your Toolkit for Success
  • Mar. 9, 2026 – May 5, 2026
  • Four total conversations with pairs at UC Berkeley & UC ANR

Cycle 1 program expectations and eligibility

UCOP UC Peer Connections applicants must:

• Be employed at UCOP in a staff career or staff contract role.
• Have the support of their direct manager. Participation in this program takes place in addition to regular work responsibilities.

If selected, you are expected to:

• Attend a virtual kick-off event for Cycle 1 on Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 2 – 3 p.m. (PT).
• Complete the Purpose Profile by the Sept. 10 deadline to be matched for the cycle.
• Participate in five one-hour virtual conversations on the Imperative platform between Sept. 15, 2025, and Dec. 12, 2025.
• Schedule all Imperative conversations directly with your peer. UCOP does not manage conversation scheduling.
• Participate in at least one more cycle between January and May.

Apply

• Complete the short application by Friday, Aug. 29, at 5 p.m. (PT).
• Staff who have previously participated in the program must complete a new application.
• Participants will be notified of their application status by Sept. 2. Please hold Tuesday, Sept. 16, from 2 – 3 p.m. (PT) for the virtual kickoff.
• Participants will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis; however, space is limited and we may choose applicants from departments and roles to reflect a representative cross-section of UCOP.
• Participation in the program is free. UCOP Learning & Development will sponsor participants’ licensing fees.

Testimonials

Building and maintaining meaningful relationships at work is imperative to personal growth, creativity and well-being. Here’s what past UCOP participants have said about the program:

• “UC Peer Connections helped me find time to reflect, set intentions, get a different perspective and help develop new ideas. I was able to connect with someone outside of my team.”
• “Building a relationship with my peer has allowed me to connect with UC outside my day-to-day role. Thanks to UC Peer Connections, we have committed to setting up a recurring meeting that’s become a safe space to discuss work-related and personal challenges. We plan to continue to provide our outside perspective, share our unbiased opinions, and serve as a sounding board and a support system for one another as we navigate challenges in our UC journey.”
• “It’s rare to have a connection with a colleague that provides different perspectives on your life and work. Having developed our relationship and become familiar with each other’s challenges, it’s easier to talk through professional hurdles and to develop solutions and plans to improve work satisfaction.”
• “The experience has been great. I love the platform too; it has set the foundation for great and meaningful conversations that make it easier to continue long-term relationships and keep in touch.”

If you have any questions, please get in touch with the program coordinator, Oscar Lara.

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