Important dates and reminders for December and January regarding monthly paychecks, taxes, your 2016 benefits and more.

On Dec. 7, President Janet Napolitano announced the 2016 recipients of the President’s Research Catalyst Awards, who are focusing on biodiversity, drought, cultural preservation and dark matter.

Winter holidays will be observed this year on Dec. 24 and 25, and New Year holidays will be observed on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, but UCOP offices will be closed from Thursday, Dec. 24, through Sunday, Jan. 3.

Take note of these important dates and reminders for December and January regarding monthly paychecks, taxes, your 2016 benefits and more.

Winter holidays will be observed this year on Dec. 24 and 25, and New Year holidays will be observed on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, but UCOP offices will be closed from Thursday, Dec. 24, through Sunday, Jan. 3.

UCOP offices will be closed for Thanksgiving (Nov. 26-27). Over winter break, offices will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3.

UC policy prohibits mail services at any university location from sending or receiving personal packages, just as it prohibits personal use of any UC resource. Don't worry — we have some alternatives for you.

When UCPath goes live for UCOP on Nov. 30, employees will go to a new UCPath website for many pay and benefits-related activities currently performed on At Your Service Online. A self-guided preview of the site, including step-by-step instructions for common tasks, is now available.

The UCOP Mentorship Program pairs experienced professionals from across OP departments with staff who seek to develop themselves professionally. Come to a brown bag on July 16, 17 or 20 to learn more about it.