The UC Board of Regents formally recognized the Council of University of California Staff Assemblies on July 17 for 50 years of dedicated service and advocacy on behalf of UC staff. Regent Richard Leib read a commemorative resolution honoring CUCSA’s legacy and its lasting contributions to the university system since its formal establishment on July 18, 1975.
Shirley Salado, UC ANR’s delegate to CUCSA, encourages other UC ANR staff members to get involved with the ANR Staff Assembly. Below, she recounts some of ANR Staff Assembly Council’s accomplishments in its nine years.
Hello UC ANR Staff,
My name is Shirley Salado, and I serve as a community nutrition program supervisor. I’ve been actively involved with the ANR Staff Assembly Council (SAC) since 2021, beginning as an ambassador representing San Diego County. That initial role gave me the opportunity to explore what the Staff Assembly is all about and sparked a deeper passion for staff engagement and advocacy.
In 2022, I was elected ambassador co-chair, a role that expanded my reach across the UC ANR system and deepened my commitment to fostering stronger connections among staff. Through this position, I’ve worked to raise awareness about Staff Assembly and encourage participation by showing how every staff member can have a voice in shaping our work environment.
For example, SAC has supported initiatives such as the Education Reimbursement Program, which has returned thousands of dollars to staff pursuing educational opportunities. Another is the Wellness Reimbursement Program, which helps hundreds of staff and academic employees each year invest in their personal well-being. These programs exist because staff like you voiced the need for more support – proof that your input truly drives change.
As part of my continued involvement, I’ve also had the privilege of serving as a delegate to the Council of UC Staff Assemblies for the past two years, first with Christine Davidson and now with Javier Miramontes for FY26. CUCSA is a systemwide council that brings together representatives from every UC campus and location to advocate for staff priorities and well-being across the state.
This past year, CUCSA wrapped up our term with meaningful, actionable work that advances employee support systemwide. I encourage you to review our CUCSA Summary Reports, which highlight key research and recommendations developed by our workgroups to help make the University of California an employer of choice.
The big highlight this year for CUCSA is that we turned 50 years! ANR joined CUCSA just nine years ago thanks to Vice President Glenda Humiston, who supports ANR Staff Assembly and encourages all staff to participate.
Locally, the ANR Staff Assembly has many ways for you to get involved. Do you know who your location’s Staff Assembly Ambassador is? You can find out by visiting the ANR Staff Assembly website. If your location doesn’t yet have an Ambassador, I encourage you to consider stepping into that role—it’s a great opportunity to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.
Your voice matters. Let’s continue working together to support, celebrate, and strengthen the UC ANR staff community.
Warm regards,
Shirley Salado
Community Nutrition Program Supervisor
ANR Staff Assembly Council | CUCSA Delegate