On Feb. 11, 2026, the UCOP Asian Pacific Islander Staff Association (APISA) hosted a memorable Lunar New Year celebration, bringing together more than 230 colleagues to ring in the Lunar New Year with community, culture and togetherness.

The Oakland Broadway Conference Center was filled with festive decor and lively energy as colleagues enjoyed a delicious spread of Chinese cuisine catered by Tao Yuen, featuring classic dishes like chicken fried rice and stir-fried green beans that added warmth and authenticity to the occasion.

Guests also took part in interactive cultural activities throughout the event. One of the most popular stations invited attendees to decorate their own red envelopes, ready to be filled with money and shared with family and friends, as part of a cherished Lunar New Year tradition symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.

The celebration’s biggest highlight was an electrifying lion dance performance by the Cal Vietnamese Student Association. The vibrant costumes, rhythmic drumming and dynamic choreography captivated the audience, filling the room with excitement and symbolically ushering in luck and abundance for the year ahead.

In a special moment during the celebration, UC President James B. Milliken made a special surprise appearance. His visit underscored the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and fostering a strong sense of belonging across the UC community.

Colleagues celebrate the Year of the Horse at UCPath with EVP/COO Rachael Nava and other senior leaders.

This festive spirit extended beyond Oakland. On the same day, APISA colleagues at UCPath also hosted a Lunar New Year celebration, which featured festive games, Chinese zodiac fortune telling, calligraphy and a wonderful dumpling-making station that brought colleagues together for hands on, delicious fun.

Adding to the excitement, the UC Operations Leadership Retreat was taking place at UCPath that day. Many leaders and retreat attendees, including UC Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Rachel Nava, joined the festivities, enjoying the food and games, and engaging with staff in a relaxed and celebratory setting. Their participation made the event feel especially inclusive and connected, highlighting the strength of our broader UC community.

With strong participation across both locations, this year’s Lunar New Year celebrations were a powerful reminder of the strength and diversity of our community and the value of coming together to celebrate cultural heritage.

Happy Lunar New Year and best wishes for a prosperous year ahead!

Editor’s note: Thank you to APISA member Anna Chan for submitting this story.

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