Beyond Business As Usual: A Message of Support
Hi, there.
We wanted to take a moment to simply say: we see you. And, we are here for you.
These past weeks have been incredibly difficult across campus (and across our nation). The recent political events have created ripples—waves, really—that touch each of us differently but deeply. We’ve noticed the subtle shift in our interactions—in our Zoom calls, in our email exchanges, in the quick conversations between meetings.
We recognize that we’re navigating all of this while also balancing our own uncertainties. And, you're showing up despite being mentally exhausted. And somehow, between it all, we’re still expecting you to engage with us regarding upcoming system changes and implementations. It's a lot. Maybe even too much, sometimes.
When you're juggling multiple priorities and your attention is diverted, please know that we understand. Our SIS Project team is walking this same path alongside you, experiencing similar challenges as we work to forge forward together. But, we're not just pushing forward with business as usual—we're intentionally adapting to meet you where you are. That's why we're reimagining how we work together, creating flexible pathways that respect your capacity.
So, what are we doing to support you? We're refining our asks to what's truly essential, providing clearer information, and exploring creative alternatives for engagement.
- People-centered: Thinking of you (and your time and effort) in every decision, discussion and ask. Considering things like, “what do folks really have time for?” and “how can we make this easier for our colleagues?”
- Clarity: Keeping content short and sweet, so that you can stay informed and have bite-sized updates that don’t take up too much of your time.
- Innovation: Offering pre-recorded monthly and quarterly update videos (instead of scheduled presentations) you can watch at your convenience, encouraging you to skip ahead or around to find topics most relevant to you.
Efficiency: Holding space for project-specific meetings and office hours, so you can book time with us when it is convenient for you. - Empathy: Practicing grace, understanding and kindness—knowing that we are all stretched thin and could use that extra reminder or extended deadline.
As we navigate these upcoming changes together, we're committed to being a source of support, not another drain on your limited bandwidth. We're here. We're listening. And we'll figure this out together, just as we’ve done before, one reasonable step at a time.
Resources
In case you missed it, here are some resources shared by our UC San Diego leaders.
Stay informed and KNOW what’s going on:
- President Drake’s message to the UC Community on March 19, 2025
- Chancellor’s April message provides key updates on financial planning
- UC Federal Updates website
- UC San Diego Federal Updates website
- UC San Diego Health Federal Updates website (login required)
- UC San Diego Health Sciences Federal Updates website (login required)
ACT in response to what’s going on:
- Behind Every Breakthrough campaign, a university-wide effort communicating the value of research to internal and external constituencies. Connect with your unit’s media contact if you would like to participate and highlight your research.
- Help protect life-saving research by contacting your representatives and joining the UC Advocacy Network.
- Use the NIH Cuts Advocacy Toolkit to raise awareness on your social media, share your story about the impact of NIH-funded research, and invite others to join the campaign.
- Share any media inquiries you receive with your unit’s media contact or send them to marcom@ucsd.edu if you’re unsure of who to share the information within your area.
Prioritize YOUR mental health & well-being:
- Schedule a Bright Break to add some movement and mindfulness to your day.
- Reach out to the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) for extra support.
- Attend a wellness event, webinar, or workshop