More than 450 UCOP, UCPath, and UCDC staff members joined with colleagues on Thursday, Oct. 24, in Franklin Lobby 1 in Oakland, the UCPath Center in Riverside, and the UC Washington Center in Washington, D.C. for a celebration of UC staff diversity.

In a belated celebration of National Cat Day (October 29), we asked UCOP staff to share photos of their favorite felines and you happily complied. View a slideshow of UCOP's curious, cuddly and crazy cats.

Meet Dr. Carrie L. Byington, the new EVP of UC Health. Originally from Texas, she is passionate about supporting bee colonies and the leadership culture they exemplify.

The Black Staff and Faculty Organization will hold its annual bake sale in support of its scholarship recipients next week. Purchase baked goods, donate one to share or help support this year’s scholars.

Spread cheer and encouragement to your coworkers by thanking them for all they do! The Gratitude Gram table will be in the Franklin lobby daily from Nov. 6–22.

National Cat Day was October 29, and to celebrate, we’re asking all of our colleagues at UCOP to share a photo of their favorite cat – or cats! Next week’s Link will feature a slideshow of entries.

On Oct. 31 — Halloween Day — UCOP will celebrate with festivities and a collaborative costume contest in Oakland’s Franklin building and at the UCPath Center. Show off your look and join the fun!

Join the Latino Staff Association in recognizing one of Mexico’s most celebrated holidays by decorating sugar skulls and contributing to the UCOP ofrenda.

Meet Articulation Analyst Raisa VanAlstyne-Ponce of Student Affairs. Her interests include championing secondary education, traversing the globe and taking an unconventional approach to breakfast.