It's almost time for the Winter Celebration. You'll have an opportunity to party with your colleagues and support families through the East Oakland Community Project.

If you're interested in the Take Charge program, specifically designed for administrative and support staff to advance their careers, apply by this Friday, Dec. 12.

Watch UC Berkeley psychologist Dacher Keltner explore the concept of “survival of the fittest” and delve into Darwin’s idea that sympathy is one of the strongest human instincts, sometimes stronger than self-interest. Keltner is featured

Even if you’re one of the lucky 20 percent of U.S. adults who’ve never experienced back pain, learn more about how to use your back properly at UCOP’s wellness workshop on Back Care.

Athelynne Robinson in the President's Executive Office sent us this shout-out to Benjamin Tsai for taking the initiative to improve his health, one day at a time.

Policy prohibits UC Mail Services from handling personal packages through the USPS, FedEx, UPS and all other couriers, so please explore these other alternatives.

Did you know that UC has a travel insurance program that offers convenient coverage and competitive rates for staff personal travel outside the United States?

UC is proposing revisions to Staff Policy 30, Compensation, which applies to staff in the professional and support staff and manager and senior professionals groups.

More than 50 UCOP volunteers got into the spirit of giving when they helped serve turkey dinners to Oakland seniors, low-income families and homeless citizens at the 23rd annual Thanksgiving Dinner last week.

Seth Grossman, chief of staff to President Napolitano, is the featured speaker at the December Lunch & Learn session, Thursday, Dec. 4, 12 to 1 p.m. in Franklin Lobby 1.

Mark your calendar now for UCOP's 2014 Winter Celebration, which will feature treats, turkeys, music and various forms of merrymaking as well as a charitable giving drive.

President Napolitano announces the appointment of a new Efficiency Review Working Group and three new efficiencies that will be implemented in early 2015.

Check out this year's UCOP Holiday Crafts Fair, which takes place in the Franklin lobby this Thursday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and features handcrafted gifts and accessories, many made by your UCOP colleagues.