Zero Waste & Sustainability Outreach Efforts in Action at OPERS Fest

UCSC's numerous sustainability organizations were well represented at OPERS Fest this year on September 20, with students tabling about topics such as sustainable food systems, water conservation, native plant restoration, natural history, seed saving, waste reduction, sustainable engineering, and more. 

Behind the scenes, our very own Zero Waste Team and OPERS student staff were hard at work ensuring that waste from the event was disposed of properly. The Zero Waste Team projected before the event that as much as 98% of waste from OPERS Fest could be diverted from landfills. The survey conducted after the event revealed that actual waste diversion was near that goal, with 97% of waste diverted into compost or recycling instead of the landfill!

These UCSC students took a sustainability pledge to reduce their plastic waste by always using a reusable water bottle. The purpose of the sustainability pledge is to get people thinking about ways they can further incorporate sustainability into their daily lives. It's a pledge to make one small change, which can inspire others so that collectively, we're changing the world. You can check out more pledges and pictures from OPERS Fest on Facebook.

Active zero waste efforts like the monitored 4-part waste station at OPERS Fest are instrumental in driving UCSC towards its goal of campuswide zero waste by 2020. Thanks to everyone who stopped by the Sustainability Tent, composted their food scraps, and helped host this fantastic, annual zero waste event!

Cultivating a Daily Revolution: Film Series

 

Hello everyone,  I am Adriana Murguia , I am part of the FoCAN leadership team and this quarter I will be leading the “Cultivating a Daily Revolution” gatherings. I look forward to sharing my interests and familiarity with you all for the next ten weeks! 

This spring,  Friends of the Community Agroecology Network (FoCAN) will be re-establish its weekly gatherings and will be bringing a weekly film series. This quarter, our Cultivating a Daily Revolution (CDR) will consist of a series of movies and documentaries relating to themes and topics of: agroecology, food security, sustainability and globalization. The films will be in no particular order and will depend on what people are interested in learning about.  The gatherings will consist of free dinner and discussion. 

We will be meeting: Wednesday Nights 7-9pm at the Ethnic Resource Center  (ERC) Lounge above the Baytree bookstore. Stairs and elevators are located to the right of the express store. Our first meeting will be April 15th.  

List of Films:

MST: Brazil's Landless Worker Movement. Understanding the formation of international, agricultural social movements and how they incorporate Agroecology.

Tambien la Lluvia( Even the Rain)- Water Wars:  Hasta la lluvia is a film that  about water privatization in Peru. Learn about multilateral development agencies and what alternatives grassroots movements have provided in the face of liberalism. Water Wars is a documentary on water issues in India reflecting on the monopolization of water and the erosion of communities.

Our land, Our future: Documentary made by Three Americas,a Santa Cruz based solidarity organization with the people of Latin America. This documentary underlines indigenous land rights and environmental issues in Nicaragua. Let’s have a discussion about the Nicaraguan Canal.

When the Mountains Tremble: Film on the war between the Guatemalan military and indigenous communities.

Cocalero- Mary full of Grace: Understanding global commodities and will then implement its framework in understanding the commodification of cocaine in Latin America.

Seeds of Freedom: Explore diverse farming systems around the word and how seeds have become monopolized by the global food system.

A film about Coffee- Hot Coffee: follow the production of coffee from farm to consumption. The film opens a door to understanding specialty coffee.

 

Sponsored by: El Centro Chicano Resource center  

February 2015: Classes, Training, and Community

Future Campus Housing Plans: February 10 and 11
Plans are underway to expand student housing at UCSC with a focus on the west campus. Although these plans won’t be realized for several years, your experiences as a UCSC student, the reasons behind your current housing selections, and anything else you’d like to suggest that would enhance student satisfaction regarding housing are extremely important. This housing development will have possible effects to Family Student Housing, the Porter Meadow, and the Trailer Park.  It would be a great place to express the need of sustainability within new housing and planning. All are encouraged to attend. Please contact jimgrove [at] ucsc [dot] edu to participate. Click here for more information about upcoming stakeholder engagement sessions to provide your input.

March for Real Climate Leadership: February 7
On February 7th, thousands of people from all corners of the state will take to the streets of Oakland to call on Governor Jerry Brown to protect all Californians from dangerous oil activities that harm our water, our health and our communities. As he took office on January 5th for his fourth and final term, Governor Brown declared he wants California to be an international leader in the fight against climate change. But California can’t be a leader in the fight against climate change while we unabashedly push extreme extraction methods like fracking that worsen climate change and seriously endanger the health of our communities. Details about the march here. Sign up for the bus from Santa Cruz here.

Winter Food System Learning Journeys
Join OPERS on the journey through our local food system here in Santa Cruz. Food Systems Learning Journeys will take you from the classroom and the halls of campus into a not too distant world of farming, distributing, cooking, consuming, and composting food! You will have the opportunity to taste, touch, listen, and look into a world that we are all connected to. FSLJs that are offered this quarter are listed below Viticulture and Regional Terroir (Thursday, 2/12/15); Fruit Tree Pruning (Friday, 2/20/15); The Pie's the Limit (Wednesday, 2/25/15); and The Craft of Fermentation (Saturday 2/28/15). Registration and more information here.

El Intercambio: February 17, 19 and 20
Join FoCAN and youth from Central America at the Intercambio event. On February 17th from 5-8 P.M., there will be a gathering with free food about the Scales of Labor in the Food System at the College Eight Red Room. On February 19 from 2-4:30 P.M., there will be a panel about the International Youth Network for Food Sovereignty at the UCSC Kresge Town Hall. The last event will be on February 20 from 9-11 A.M at New Leaf (located at 1101 Fair Ave.) for an AgroEco Coffee Tasting.

Education for Sustainable Living Program Spring Classes

Are you interested in social justice, food systems, renewable energy or any other Blueprint for a Sustainable Campus topics? Take the ESLP class for 2 or 5 units next quarter! Designed and led by undergraduate students. Go to eslp.enviroslug.org to learn more about class offerings and how to enroll.

LEED Green Building Accreditation Training
The UCSC Sustainability Office will again be hosting LEED green building training to prepare students, staff and faculty for taking the Green Associate (GA) and/or the Accredited Professional (AP) exams. These classes are free with a provided lunch! Draft course agenda can be viewed here. If you are interested, please email Chrissy at cthomure [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Where the Health Can You Eat Around Here: February 25
Meet our Chefs at the Healthy Monday Tasting Event. Free to everyone, you do not need to have a meal plan! Wednesday, February 25th, 2015 3:30pm-5:00pm @ Terra Fresca Restaurant above the College 9 &10 Dining Hall. Sample selections from our new Healthy Monday's dining hall menu! Find out about healthy alternatives in our cafes. The Health Center, SHOP, OPERS Cruz Fit, along with several other campus departments are going to be on site to talk about healthy lifestyle resources available right here on campus for Slugs. Campus chefs are anxious to get your feedback too on new dishes and hear ideas for future cafe and dining hall menus! Door Prizes and Freebies too!

3rd Annual Zero Waste Youth Convergence Deadline for Speakers: February 15
The UC Berkeley Zero Waste Research Center is pleased to announce it will be hosting Zero Waste Youth USA's 3rd Annual Zero Waste Youth Convergence at UC Berkeley on Sunday, March 15, 2015. The Convergence is the kick-off event for the annual Bay Area Zero Waste Week. The call for speakers/presenters is now open. If you are interested in presenting, please apply here. The deadline to apply is February 15, 2015. Questions should be directed to info [at] zerowasteyouthusa [dot] org

Launch of new PICA website
Please take a few moments to check out PICA's new features, including a calendar of upcoming events, a food justice focus and a link where you can make a donation directly to PICA. 

Winter PICA Workdays
Come out and get your hands dirty at the PICA Garden Workdays! Every Saturday, January 17 to March 7 from 10 A.M. - 2 P.M a free garden grown lunch will be served. For more information contact Ariel Wexler: awexler [at] ucsc [dot] edu

PICA Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop: February 20
Have you ever wanted to learn fruit tree pruning? PICA is offering an opportunity to do so on Friday, February 20th with Orin Martin from 1 - 4P.M. PICA will be leaving the OPERS Recreational Porch at 1pm. RSVP here -- spots are limited! If you experience any problems signing up or have any questions, please email kemjones [at] ucsc [dot] edu

Fall 2015 Natural History Course: applications due February 2

A new program launching in Fall 2015 will immerse students from across the UC system in the outdoor classrooms of the UC Natural Reserve System. The NRS Field Quarter Program will give students opportunities to closely observe California habitats, practice hands-on field research, and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world. California Ecology and Conservation will be the only course students enroll in for the term, and it yields a full complement of quarter units. As they visit up to six of the 39 reserves in the NRS, students will master standard field techniques and get to know a broad range of California habitats, climate regimes, and species. The deadline is February 2, 2015 and instruction begins in the fall. Visit the website for more information.

Agroecology, A Global Movement: Tracing Our Roots and Looking Forward

The 16th Annual Agroecology Shortcourse will explore the roots of agroecology as a global movement as well as a science and a practice from July 12-25, 2015. Santa Cruz offers the ideal context to examine historical and current issues of social and environmental equity and sustainability that agroecology movements confront all over the world. The course aims to introduce agroecology and strategically connect the diverse and powerful agroecology experiences and movements active worldwide and create a collective overarching view of the current global situation. The course will end with a vision of how to better facilitate cross-fertilization across agroecology movements and overcome obstacles to convergence. For more information, contact can.shortcourse [at] gmail [dot] com or visit the website.

Maui Wowi: Food Systems, Agriculture, and Outdoor Adventure Spring Break Trip
Though this is fall quarter, registration is open (and will fill) for the annual experiential learning and food system engagement spring break trip. Join the Food Systems Working Group & Rec Department on Maui to explore traditional food and farming sites, explore different aspects of culture, and adventure into bamboo forests, ranch lands, and marine sanctuaries to explore the ecological aspects of the island. This trip will also include a 2-unit Environmental Studies internship in winter quarter to prepare the group for different concepts and frameworks of food system engagement they will explore in March. Sign up on the OPERS Recreation website this quarter to reserve your spot!

Join FoCAN to "Restore Our Roots and Reclaim Our Labor"

The Friends of the Community Agroecology Network (FoCAN) is hosting a cornucopia of events during the month of February! Kicking off on Tuesday February 17th from 5-8pm in the College 8 Red Room, they will be discussing the Scales of Labor in the Food System and there will be free food. Then, on Thursday February 19th from 2-4:40pm there will be a Panel for International Youth network for Food Sovereignty in the UCSC Kresge Town hall. Finally, Friday February 20th from 9-11am there will be an AgroEco Coffee Tasting at New Leaf Market (1101 Fair Ave. West Side, Santa Cruz). Come on out and support FoCAN and learn about food and labor rights!

February 2015: Internships, Employment & Volunteering

INTERNSHIPS

Chancellor's Undergraduate Internship Program: Deadline February 12
CUIP provides on-campus internships in programs and departments throughout the campus, oftentimes working with sustainability organizations and the Sustainability Office. Interns work with a mentor and take a leading role in a project. A 2-unit leadership seminar class is required year-long. A scholarship of 8,200 dollars is paid towards the intern’s registration fees for the academic year.

Food Systems Internships Available

The Food Systems Working Group has an exciting new cadre of student leaders working across their partnerships with Dining, the Farm, and Garden efforts. Are you looking for an internship to join them? Email ucscfswg [at] gmail [dot] com if you'd like to find out more!

FoCAN Intercambio Intercultural Interns Needed

Friends of Community Agroecology Network (FoCAN) is looking for additional interns for winter quarter to work with their Intercambio (Exchange) program. Internships skills you would gain consist of event planning, collaborating with sponsors, and working with a team. For additional information contact FoCAN [at] ucsc [dot] edu. Learn more about Intercambio in this blog post by Adriana Murguia.

Writers & Social Media Interns Wanted for Hilltromper
Hilltromper, the one-stop outdoor recreation web resource for Santa Cruz County, is looking for an intern to help run the calendar, write about recreation and the environment and contribute to social media. Tromping strongly encouraged! If interested, please email Traci [at] hilltromper [dot] com.

Green Drinks Needs Coordination Help
Green Drinks is an informal networking event where environmentally-minded people meet over drunks. Green Drinks are seeking coordination support and aims to better serve the Santa Cruz community. Contact hannahjoyhodgson [at] gmail [dot] if you are interested. Also- attend the February Green Drinks meeting Monday, February 2nd from 5-7:30 pm at Vino Prima on the Wharf. For more information, visit the Green Drinks website.

Second Nature Seeking Interns for Spring 2015
Second Nature is a Boston-based non-profit organization with a mission to proactively build a sustainable and positive global future through leadership in higher education. They are seeking applicants for internships that may focus on multiple tasks based on applicant's area of interest. Students at all post-secondary institutions are invited to apply. Please fill out the form online, here.

Santa Cruz Sierra Club Seeking Interns & Volunteers

The mission of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect natural places. It is one of the oldest and largest environmental organization in the country, founded by John Muir in the late 1800s. If you are interested in learning how environmental activism works at the local level, planning fun events and hikes to engage people with our local environment, and more please email melissa.ott [at] sierraclub [dot] org. Visit the website, Facebook, and MeetUp page for more information.

Coastal Watershed Council Internships Available
The Coastal Watershed Council (CWC) has many great internship opportunities to learn about local watersheds, build your resume, and contribute to cleaner, healthier watersheds in Santa Cruz. They're looking for motivated college and high school students. For more information, call (831) 464-9200 and view a full list of internship opportunities here.

The Offset Project is Seeking Sustainability Program Intern

The Offset Project, located in Monterey, California, works to implement sound waste policies and environmental stewardship, is seeking a Sustainability Program Intern. The intern would start immediately and must commit to a minimum of 6 months and 5-10 hours per work for credit (unpaid). If you are interested, please e-mail a resume and cover letter to Kristin: kristin [at] the offsetproject [dot] org

CSSC Field Organizer Program Internships Available
The California Student Sustainability Coalition (CSSC) Field Organizer Program is a series of paid, unpaid volunteer, and unpaid course credit positions that allow students and recent alumni to get real, on-the-ground organizing experience in the climate justice movement. For more information and to apply, visit the website.

myActions on Campus is Seeking Smart, Savvy Student Leaders

myActions on Campus has recognized UC Santa Cruz's commitment to develop next generation leaders and is inviting our students to for two paid internships! Last year 75 campuses across the nation participated, driving over 100,000 sustainable projects and actions in a plethora of communities. These internship roles include Sustainability Campus Intern and Community Service Campus Intern. Don't wait, create change now. For more information visit myActions on Campus page.

Summer Naturalist Internship in Aspen, Colorado
Love nature and leadership? Apply for an internship in Aspen, Colorado to lead nature walks, assist with management of the Hallam Lake visitor center, learn about Rocky Mountain ecology, educate the public. Employment is from June 8-September 7, 2015. For more information and to apply, click here.

University of California Office of the President Internship Program
On January 14th, The University of California announced the creation of the President's Sustainability Student Fellowship/Internship Program to support UC's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025. The UC Office of the President (UCOP) will provide $7,500 to each of the UC's 10 campuses. At each campus, one award will be designated to support student engagement and communications for the Carbon Neutrality Initiative and the President's Global Climate Leadership Council. For more information, read the complete article here.

EMPLOYMENT

FSWG is hiring Sustainable Food Research and Engagement Assistants 

FSWG is looking for a Sustainable Food Research and Engagement Assistant. This individual would make a lasting change on campus through voicing the opinion of the people about what food is available in the dining halls. Apply today through the Career Center Employee Request (ER #7650). 

St. Mary's College Seeking Sustainability Coordinator (Deadline: 2/15/15)

Mount St. Mary's is seeking a Sustainability Coordinator to provide leadership and work in conjunction with the Sustainability Committee for all their efforts and practices on campus. Please apply online and include a cover letter, resume and three professional references. For more information, visit the application information here.

Second Nature Education for Sustainability Recruitment Coordinator 
Second Nature is a Boston-based non-profit organization with a mission to proactively build a sustainable and positive global future through leadership in higher education. They are seeking the services of a Recruitment Coordinator to increase the participation of institutions in its programs and activities. Position can be remote or based in the Boston office. For more information and to apply for this position: click here.

SACNAS Communications & Marketing Coordinator 

Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) is looking for a Communications & Marketing coordinator  to increase recognition, membership, engagement and fundraising efforts. The position remains open until filled. For more information about the position, click here. For general information about SACNAS, click here. 

CCOF Seeking Programs Assistant, Office & Sales Assistant, and Development Manager

California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) is an organic certifier, trade association and educational foundation supporting the growth of organic food and agriculture. They are currently hiring three positions. For more information and to apply, visit the website. 

Solar Leadership Program Applications Open Soon
SunEdison launched the Solar Leadership Program (SLP) to develop management talent for the company and prepare associates for future leadership roles at SunEdison.  Expected start date in Summer 2015. For more information please email SLPrecruiting [at] sunedison [dot] com. Learn more here.

Safe Routes to School Seeking a New Executive Director

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership is seeking a new Executive Director to provide leadership, vision and direction to fulfill the mission of the National Partnership! See the position description for full details on the role, responsibilities and what an ideal candidate for this position might look like. Prospective candidates can also contact Janet Albert in confidence at janet.albert [at] bridgepartnersllc [dot] com.

Project Bike Trip Seeking New Project Bike Director & Bike Tech Program Director

Project Bike Trip is a non-profit organization that offers technical training in bicycle mechanics, preparing youth for job opportunities within the bicycle industry. This is an excellent opportunity to practice sustainability by engaging in a program that offers fun environmentally friendly means of alternative transportation. In order to manage the growing demand for the Bike Tech Program, they are looking for two professional, self-motivated, organize, innovative individuals to join their team. For complete job descriptions and information on how to apply, click here.

VOLUNTEERING

Help Out at the Sustainability Office's Zero Waste Team Annual Campus Clean-Up Day!

The Student Union Assembly and the Sustainability Office's Zero Waste Team are teaming up to coordinate the First Annual Campus Clean-Up Day on April 25th! They hope to create an event that motivates campus users to properly dispose of waste and encourages campus stewardship. Stay tuned for more information about this incredible event and information on how to get involved!

Help Plan the Sustainability Office's Film Festival to Celebrate Campus' 50th Anniversary 

Do you have a love for organization and planning? Interested in sustainability and have a passion for cinema? Then this is the opportunity for you! Join the Sustainability Office in planning a Sustainability themed Film Festival in celebration of UCSC's 50th Anniversary! To partake or for more information, email Meghan Neureither at mneureit [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Join Central Zone Waste Reduction Team for Conservation Carnival 
The Central Zone Waste Reduction team is planning an on-campus event with games, crafts, music and prizes all focused around water conservation and sustainable living practices and are searching for volunteers to help with the event. The event will take place on Saturday, April 18th time TBA. If you are interested stay tuned for more information or contact Madeline Halluin at mhalluin [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

College 8 Earth Week Facilitation Opportunity

Interested in facilitating an event? We are looking to collaborate with various organizations for Earth Week 2015 (the week of Earth Day). This year's theme is "Your Plate: The effect your food choices have on you and the world around you". Questions? Contact Derek Dean at drdean [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Global Student Embassy Seeking Garden Leader
Global Student Embassy (GSE) Santa Cruz initiates and runs several high school garden projects here in Santa Cruz county. Would you or someone you know be interested in engaging in GSE projects as a core team member? A ccommitment would involve some combination of meeting one to two times/month, planning for community workdays, leading after school workdays, and facilitating discussion-based workshops. Contact Wyeth Wunderlich at wyeth [at] globalstudent embassy [dot] org to participate in this awesome program.

Winter Water Event Coordination
Winter Water is a water organization collaborative event with the ultimate goal of educating students about various water issues, including access, privatization, drought, and how to get involved. Coordinated by Take Back the Tap and other on-campus student organizations, the event will feature numerous tables of information about water-related organizations on and off-campus, as well as two keynote speakers that are experts on specific water issues. The event will be on Monday, February 23 at Monday Kresge Town Hall from 1-5 p.m. If you are an organization that wants to get involved in planning, tabling, or promoting the event, email David at dmrosas[at]ucsc[dot]edu. Come learn about how you can make a difference and support the most fundamental aspect of life, water!

Get Involved with UC Global Food Initiative 

The UC Global Food Initiative aims to address global issues in the food system. All 10 UCs are working collectively towards this effort to support sustainable agriculture, healthy eating, and food security. UCSC is playing a critical role in this effort with the support of the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems. Join a subcommittee and get involved by contacting ucscfswg [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Become a Student Blogger for CSSC
Interested in sharing your campus' work with a broad statewide coalition? CSSC is currently seeking new student bloggers! Email info [at] sustainabilitycoalition [dot] org for more details. Learn more about CSSC on the blog here.

Community Engagement with San Lorenzo River Alliance
Help the San Lorenzo River Alliance have more positive attention on and more positive engagement with the San Lorenzo River by signing up to be a community engagement volunteer. To learn more or volunteer, email Laurie Egan at legan [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org. Learn more here.

Teach K-12 Watershed Conservation Lessons
Council Watershed Council presents lessons to K-12 grade students at public schools throughout the county. Volunteer to present lessons on the link between watersheds and our water supply, recycling and composting, water pollution prevention, how to pack a trash free lunch, wise energy use, and many other topics related to climate change and wise resource use. To learn more and sign up, email Stew Jenkins at sjenkins [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org or call him at (831) 464-9200. Learn more here.

Carneros Creek Winter Monitoring
Want to gain field experience in beautiful wetland areas? Volunteer with the Carneros Creek Water Quality Monitoring Program to help monitor seasonal Carneros Creek, a primary freshwater tributary to Elkhorn Slough. You'll be professionally trained to test for field measurements and flow, including how to collect water samples that will be analyzed at a certified lab for bacteria, nutrients, total suspended solids, and pesticides. Contact Debie Chirco-Macdonald at djchirco [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org or (831) 464-9200 to get involved. Learn more here.

Volunteers Sought for March for Climate Leadership: February 7
On February 7, thousands of Californians are gathering in Governor Jerry Brown’s longtime home of Oakland to say that we need real climate leadership in the face of the drought. Across the state wells are drying up, more than a dozen cities are in real danger of running out of water, and there’s no question it’s being made worse by climate change. Volunteers are needed to make the march happen, so volunteer online here. Find out more about the March and how you can participate here.

Arboretum Volunteer Gardening Opportunities

The Arboretum has volunteer gardening hours throughout the week. Visit their website for details. 

Volunteer with Sea Slugs, an Ocean Conservation Org

Sea Slugs is an ocean-minded campus organization dedicated to environmental stewardship. It is an excellent opportunity for students (both undergrad and grad) to engage in the greater community through public service while making a positive impact on the local environment. For information about meeting times and opportunities, contact Sea Slugs at seaslug.ucsc [at] gmail [dot] com or visit their website.

Join Banana Slugs for Animals

Banana Slugs for Animals welcomes all to their weekly meetings. During the meetings they discuss Animal rights and plan events! They will be having a film screening of "Earthlings" (Date and time TBD). If you would like to know more please email slugsforanimals [at] gmail [dot] com. 

Volunteer at a Campus Garden

Want to get your hands dirty and nurture the plants in our campus gardens? Visit the calendar to find out when garden work days are happening here.

Get Involved with Integrated Climate & Energy Study

Interested in climate and energy sustainability? Want to get hands-on experience exploring these topics in relation to our campus? Chrissy Thomure, Climate Action Manager in the Sustainability Office, is coordinating an Integrated Climate & Energy Study with key stakeholders and a consultant. The study launches this year, and students are encouraged to participate! Email Chrissy at cthomure [at] ucsc [dot] edu to find out more.

Find or Upload Projects to Sustainability Project Clearinghouse

Interested in getting involved in a campus sustainability project, but don't know how? Are you looking for partners for your current project? Have you completed a project that you would like others to learn from? Visit the Sustainability Project Clearinghouse, a centralized database of UCSC sustainability projects, today! You can view published projects or upload your own projects and ideas. For training on how to upload a project, please contact Shauna Casey at scasey [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

February 2015 Sustainability Profile: Adriana Murguia

Each month, our newsletter features a person or group on campus that is working toward a more sustainable world. This month features Adriana Murguia, the Friends of the Community Agroecology Network (FoCAN) Intercambio Event Coordinator. Intercambio is Spanish for exchange, yet she gets to work on bridging topics of culture and livelihoods with sustainability. 

We interviewed Adriana Murguia to learn more about how her work on campus supports sustainability efforts.

Education: 3rd year, Environmental Studies major

What's your favorite green tip?
Reducing the use of plastic. I grew up in a migrant community in which we used plastic bags to wrap our lunch and plastic containers to store our food. Now I know that I do not want carcinogens from plastic near my food.

What does "sustainability" mean to you?
Queremos un mundo donde quepan muchos mundos- “We want a world that fits many worlds” from the Zapatista movement resonates with my understanding of sustainability. I envision not only the sustainability of biodiversity but also of peoples and their cultures.

How does sustainability relate to your role at UCSC?
As the coordinator for intercambio, I have been creating a platform in the form of an 8 day conference for youth from the Community Agroecology Network’s agroeco coffee sites in Nicaragua and Mexico to exchange agroecological methods and practices which they present in forms of workshops and discussions. I also follow up with the outcomes of intercambio by being a part of their youth network. Referring to the classic term of sustainability my role places an emphasis on meeting the needs of the present and the future generations by creating capacity building with youth.

How do you practice sustainability in your daily life?
I try to incorporate sustainability in many ways, but recently I have been purchasing used textbooks whenever possible and consuming agroeco coffee regularly each quarter! 


Have you had a favorite sustainability moment at UCSC?
UCSC has given me many wonderful sustainability opportunities, some small like enjoying meals of locally sourced meal and bigger opportunities like attending bioneers.

5th Annual Intercambio this Feburary

by Adriana Murguia

                  After participating in Intercambio (Spanish for exchange) last spring in Veracruz, MX, I was really moved by the stories of many of the cooperative leaders and youth. I personally connected with all the individual stories because I grew up with immigrant parents and a migrant community many who were previously peasant farmers. While driving down from the community of Piedra Parada, our bus driver with his young family on board spoke about the one time he visited Monterrey, CA while he worked in the lettuce fields of the central coast. Many of the youth from Mexico spoke about having family in the U.S. and their fragmented relationships. Additionally, the youth from Nicaragua, shared with me their experience of being one of the first generation after the Sandinista revolution. For them, the revolution didn't follow up with all its promises, yet they are still revolutionaries at heart.

Intercambio 2014, Veracruz Mexico 

When I learned that Intercambio would be rotated to Santa Cruz, I was more than enthusiastic to be involved with the planning process because it would mean that I would get to see them again.  Intercambio is a platform to bring the voices of youth who are developing on the ground agricultural solutions by incorporating local knowledge, with agroecological training. Many of the youth hold ideals and visions of sustainability for their community and country that do not come across to larger decision making entities. For UCSC students interested in sustainability, learning from the youth network should bring to mind­ that the primary actors carrying out sustainable actions are always not called upon as decision makers. 

Intercambio Award Ceremony 

Intercambio Events for the Public: 

Join FoCAN as they welcome youth leaders from Mexico and Nicaragua to experience sustainable food systems in Santa Cruz! 

for more information email us at: focan [at] ucsc [dot] edu

Youth Empowerment for Transformative Food Systems

by Adriana Murguia

Food insecurity, chronic poverty, and outmigration plague coffee growing communities in Latin America. Rural youth find farming livelihoods as unviable and search for a wage elsewhere. In response to these problems, the Community Agroecology Network (CAN) facilitates agroecology-based food security projects in its "AgroEco" coffee sites to create viable economic opportunities to reverse the trend of youth leaving their communities to find work elsewhere. An opportunity to connect with young people from these communities is taking place in February, and volunteers are needed to make the Intercambio (Exchange) a success.

In 2011, the Youth Network for Food Security and Food Sovereignty (Jovenes SSAN) formed to promote youth leadership opportunities in order to involve younger generations in creating transformative food systems. The youth network has expanded from its coffee sites in Nicaragua and Mexico and has included university students from Veracruz and Quintana Roo. Connecting and training youth leaders across multiple project initiatives deepens knowledge and capacity, creating beneficial exchange and innovation within each of the associated communities. The youth network comes together annually as an 8 day conference known as Intercambio (Exchange), which has become a platform for knowledge exchange on strategies and models for achieving food sovereignty. A similar food security initiative is being developed in Santa Cruz. Last spring (2014) FoCAN held a local intercambio, “Beyond Organic,” in which they brought multiple workers in the food systems into one panel. This year's Intercambio will take place February 13-20, 2015.

Impacts 

The Youth Network has had four annual exchanges and two regional exchanges. After participating in the Intercambio, youth leaders have expressed a strong desire to continue expanding the youth network, receive more training in agroecology, and build stronger national and international ties. 

Interested in volunteering during their stay in Santa Cruz? 

Volunteers will be needed to prepare meals, shop for food, set up and clean up events, and provide translations during Intercambio, which will take place February 13-20, 2015. To sign up to volunteer this year, please follow this link.

Questions? Email focan [at] ucsc [dot] edu

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Adriana Murguia is the Intercambio Coordinator for Friends of Community Agroecology Network. Last year, she was a Provost's Sustainability Intern for the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems Real Food Project.

December 2014: Internships, Employment, & Volunteering

INTERNSHIPS

IDEASS Seeking Winter Interns

Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability through Student Service (IDEASS) will have a few select spots available for Winter 2015 enrollment. IDEASS is looking for Environmental Studies and other social science majors to bring their unique expertise to projects taking place on campus and the Santa Cruz community. Enrollment in IDEASS helps to fulfill senior exit requirements for almost every major (all Environmental Studies majors hoping to do so should contact Adam Millar-Ball at adammb [at] ucsc [dot] edu THIS quarter to be accepted for Winter). Anyone who is interested in applying or is looking for more information should visit the website.

Food Systems Internships Available

The Food Systems Working Group has an exciting new cadre of student leaders working across their partnerships with Dining, the Farm, and Garden efforts. Are you looking for an internship to join them? Email ucscfswg [at] gmail [dot] com if you'd like to find out more!

FoCAN Intercambio Intercultural Interns Needed

Friends of Community Agroecology Network (FoCAN) is looking for additional interns for winter quarter to work with their Intercambio (Exchange) program. This is an internship opportunity for anyone interested in furthering their understanding of social movements, food systems and globalization. Internships skills you would gain consist of event planning, collaborating with sponsors, and working with a team. For additional information contact FoCAN [at] ucsc [dot] edu. Learn more about Intercambio in this blog post by Adriana Murguia.

EcoShift Consulting and SupplyShift Seeking Interns

Interested in working on fast-paced, applied energy and climate projects in a team environment, and be mentored by experienced environmental professionals? SupplyShift and EcoShift Consulting are seeking 2-3 motivated interns with strong analytical skills to work with its management staff on three projects next year during winter and spring quarters, possibly longer. Please see our blog post for a more thorough description of the internship. Visit SupplyShift's site and EcoShift's site for more information and application. 

Student Environmental Center Internships for Winter
The SEC offers 2- and 5-unit internships each quarter. This winter, they have many opportunities to get involved in their seven sustainability campaigns and supportive positions through Co-Chair. If you are interested in a campaign (review them here), please contact seclead-group [at] ucsc [dot] edu stating which campaign you're interested in and why. They can set up an interview with you--contact them ASAP because internships forms are due before the end of fall quarter. Learn more here.

Santa Cruz Sierra Club Seeking Interns & Volunteers

The mission of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect natural places. It is one of the oldest and largest environmental organization in the country, founded by John Muir in the late 1800s. They are seeking interns and volunteers to support outreach efforts, plan events, and conduct research. If you are interested in learning how environmental activism works at the local level, planning fun events and hikes to engage people with our local environment, and more please email melissa.ott [at] sierraclub [dot] org. Visit the website, Facebook, and MeetUp page for more information.

Coastal Watershed Council Internships Available
The Coastal Watershed Council (CWC) has many great internship opportunities to learn about local watersheds, build your resume, and contribute to cleaner, healthier watersheds in Santa Cruz. They're looking for motivated college and high school students. To apply, email your resume, a 1-2 page writing sample, and why you are interested in a CWC internship to Laurie Egan at legan [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org. For more information, call (831) 464-9200 and view a full list of internship opportunities here.

No Barriers Summit Internship: Deadline December 10

Are you detail-oriented, driven, industrious, and ready to learn? Then join No Barriers in Fort Collins from January to July 2015 to learn about nonprofit management, impact important life experiences, gain valuable skills and experience, and have fun! This intern will assist in conference planning, logistics, attendee management, marketing, registration, and work with sponsors. Application are due December 10, but they will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply here.

The Offset Project is Seeking Sustainability Program Intern

The Offset Project, located in Monterey, California, works to implement sound waste policies and environmental stewardship, is seeking a Sustainability Program Intern to work with the Executive Director to support the Monterey Bay Climate Action Compact by conducting stakeholder outreach, case study development, climate research, grant assistance and more. The intern would start immediately and must commit to a minimum of 6 months and 5-10 hours per work for credit (unpaid). If you are interested, please e-mail a resume and cover letter to Kristin: kristin [at] the offsetproject [dot] org

CSSC Field Organizer Program Internships Available
The California Student Sustainability Coalition (CSSC) Field Organizer Program is a series of paid, unpaid volunteer, and unpaid course credit positions that allow students and recent alumni to get real, on-the-ground organizing experience in the climate justice movement. Field Organizers work on an array of projects to support youth involvement and leadership in CSSC’s Students Against Fracking, Fossil Free Divestment and Reinvestment campaigns. For more information and to apply, visit the website.

myActions on Campus is Seeking Smart, Savvy Student Leaders

myActions on Campus has recognized UC Santa Cruz's commitment to develop next generation leaders and is inviting our students to for two paid internships! Last year 75 campuses across the nation participated, driving over 100,000 sustainable projects and actions in a plethora of communities. These internship roles include Sustainability Campus Intern and Community Service Campus Intern. Don't wait, create change now. For more information visit myActions on Campus page.

Grassroots Internship in Washington, D.C.
When? Spring 2015. Where? Washington, D.C. Who? The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC). Why? To advocate for federal policy that supports sustainable agriculture and food systems through the development of creative, impactful outreach, assisting NSAC members with grassroots outreach campaigns using social media, email and other advocacy tools, conducting research, data analysis, drafting/editing blog posts, etc. This is a paid, full-time internship. Please send resume, cover letter, and the names and contact information for two references to intern [at] sustainableagriculture [dot] net with "Spring Grassroots Intern" in the subject line. For more information: click here.

Summer Naturalist Internship in Aspen, Colorado
Love nature and leadership? Apply for an internship in Aspen, Colorado to lead nature walks, assist with management of the Hallam Lake visitor center, learn about Rocky Mountain ecology, educate the public. Applicants must have an educational background in the natural sciences, environmental education, or related field as well as first-aid and CPR certification. Employment is from June 8-September 7, 2015. For more information and to apply, click here.

EMPLOYMENT

Water Positions Available in the Sustainability Office: Deadline December 4
The Water Action and Drought Response (WADR) Team is dedicated to water conservation and aids UCSC in meeting water rationing goals during this time of drought. They work directly with water fixtures to assess and report for changes, and with student and University staff to promote wise water practices and educate about the seriousness of the drought. The WADR Team is looking for two new students to join a four-person team starting winter quarter. The deadline to apply is December 4, and interviews will happen the following week. View the requirements and application on the Employee Request system here (ER 7324).

Seeking Green Office Certification Program Coordinator
The Sustainability Office is looking for an exceptional leader to oversee the Green Office Certification Program. Lead a team of students to work with staff across campus to improve their business practices and to adopt sustainable behaviors. Full job description and application are available on the UCSC Employment Request system here (ER 6682).

Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems Seeking Two New Hires

The Field Production Site Manager will assume primary responsibility for day-to-day operations of CASFS, as well as support wholesale, farm cart, and dining hall productions; tillage and cultivation systems; irrigation and infrastructure; and ecological stewardship of the overall 30-acre farm site. For more information, click here. The Assistant Director position will be chief administration officer for the Center and will be responsible for managing the human resources, budget, and coordinating operations with minimal direction. They will also serve as a liasion with the Social Sciences Division on human resources, facilities, and IT. For more information, click here. For more information, email casfs [at] ucsc [dot] edu. 

Campus Food & Garden Guide Editor Recruitment

The Center for Agroecology & Sustainable Food Systems creates a Campus Food & Garden Guide every year with information about how to get connected and in touch with your food system in Santa Cruz. Gardens, farmer's markets, internships, courses--it's all here! They are now looking for a 2014-2015 Food Guide Editor. Please send an email to ucscfswg [at] gmail [dot] com if you are interested in this opportunity. Download this year's guide here.

Alliance to Save Energy Seeks Associate
The Alliance to Save Energy is seeking a full-time Associate to assist with implementation of its PowerSave Campus Program and work at their Oakland, CA office. The nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy promotes energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security. The PowerSave Campus Program is a student-driven energy efficiency and workforce education and training initiative currently serving 16 campuses in California, including UCSC. For information about the program, position, required qualifications, and to apply, visit their website.

SACNAS Communications & Marketing Coordinator 

Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) is looking for a Communications & Marketing coordinator  to increase recognition, membership, engagement and fundraising efforts. This position requires a Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, journalism or equivalent. Must have a minimum of 1-2 years' experience in communications or marketing role.  The position remains open until filled. For more information about the position, click here. For general information about SACNAS, click here. 

CCOF Seeking Programs Assistant, Office & Sales Assistant, and Development Manager

California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) is an organic certifier, trade association and educational foundation supporting the growth of organic food and agriculture. They are currently hiring three positions. For more information and to apply, visit the website. 

Solar Leadership Program Applications Open Soon
SunEdison launched the Solar Leadership Program (SLP) to develop management talent for the company and prepare associates for future leadership roles at SunEdison. The SLP seeks graduate students in programs with an emphasis on broad commercial skills sets such as MBA and similar advanced degree programs with backgrounds in key functions such as engineering, operations, and finance. Full-time Associates complete four 6-month rotations in different business units, followed by placement into a management role in a functional area based on the Associate’s interests and SunEdison’s needs. Recruitments for the class of 2015 will begin shortly. Full-time SLP Associates will be based in Belmont, California, with an expected start date in Summer 2015. For more information please email SLPrecruiting [at] sunedison [dot] com. Learn more here.

Safe Routes to School Seeking a New Executive Director

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership is seeking a new Executive Director to provide leadership, vision and direction to fulfill the mission of the National Partnership! See the position description for full details on the role, responsibilities and what an ideal candidate for this position might look like. Prospective candidates can also contact Janet Albert in confidence at janet.albert [at] bridgepartnersllc [dot] com.

Education Manager for Sierra Nevada Journeys
Sierra Nevada Journeys is seeking a dynamic education professional to expand the program base for SNJs in Sacramento, CA. The Education Manager will be responsible for education, school and field programs, facilitating Family Science Night, sales, marketing, administration, selling SNJ programs, and supporting marketing efforts. For more information: click here.

Project Bike Trip Seeking New Project Bike Director & Bike Tech Program Director

Project Bike Trip is a non-profit organization that offers technical training in bicycle mechanics, preparing youth for job opportunities within the bicycle industry. This is an excellent opportunity to practice sustainability by engaging in a program that offers fun environmentally friendly means of alternative transportation. In order to manage the growing demand for the Bike Tech Program, they are looking for two professional, self-motivated, organize, innovative individuals to join their team. For complete job descriptions and information on how to apply, click here.

VOLUNTEERING

How Do You Drop Your Own Drip?
The Drop Your Own Drip campaign of the Student Environmental Center is conducting a survey about water conservation efforts at UCSC. The campaign will use this data to determine possible project ideas for the future, as well as share the results to the Water Working Group and the Water Task Force. Please take the survey here.

Get Involved with UC Global Food Initiative 

The UC Global Food Initiative aims to address global issues in the food system. All 10 UCs are working collectively towards this effort to support sustainable agriculture, healthy eating, and food security. UCSC is playing a critical role in this effort with the support of the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems. Join a subcommittee and get involved by contacting ucscfswg [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Gaia Magazine Needs Your Help
Gaia Magazine is a student-run environmental magazine on campus which publishes student work both online (year-round) and printed in the annual magazine. Gaia publishes articles, photographs, poems, recipes and other works that are based on the environment and sustainability. Work is accepted on a rolling basis...so submit today! For more information on how to submit publications, email gaiamagazineucsc [at] gmail [dot] com.

Sprout Up Recruiting New Instructors: December 5, 9

Sprout Up is recruiting new instructors for next quarter! Drop-in interested instructor presentations will be held on Friday, December 5 and Tuesday, December 9 at the Stevenson Coffee House from 3:30 - 5 p.m. You only need to attend one presentation. Sprout Up provides free, youth-led environmental education programs to 1st and 2nd grade classrooms in Santa Cruz. College student-instructors teach children vital concepts in environmental science and sustainability during the earliest stages of their educational development, cultivating the next generation of passionate caretakers of the earth. For more information, please contact them at directorsc [at] sprout up [dot] org, and feel free to visit their website at www.SproutUp.org.

Join the CSSC Operating Team
The California Student Sustainability Coalition (CSSC) Operating Team is holding elections to fill several positions for the Spring 2015 term. Positions are held from the Winter Leadership Retreat (January 16th) until the Summer Leadership Retreat (TBD for the end of July). Learn more about the various positions here. To apply, visit this online application.

Become a Student Blogger for CSSC
Interested in sharing your campus' work with a broad statewide coalition? CSSC is currently seeking new student bloggers! Email info [at] sustainabilitycoalition [dot] org for more details. Learn more about CSSC on the blog here.

Community Engagement with San Lorenzo River Alliance
Help the San Lorenzo River Alliance have more positive attention on and more positive engagement with the San Lorenzo River by signing up to be a community engagement volunteer. You'll learn from Coastal Watershed Council staff what they're working on to improve this key watershed, and share that with friends, neighbors and the Santa Cruz community through events and other methods. To learn more or volunteer, email Laurie Egan at legan [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org. Learn more here.

Teach K-12 Watershed Conservation Lessons
Council Watershed Council presents lessons to K-12 grade students at public schools throughout the county. Volunteer to present lessons on the link between watersheds and our water supply, recycling and composting, water pollution prevention, how to pack a trash free lunch, wise energy use, and many other topics related to climate change and wise resource use. To learn more and sign up, email Stew Jenkins at sjenkins [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org or call him at (831) 464-9200. Learn more here.

Carneros Creek Winter Monitoring
Want to gain field experience in beautiful wetland areas? Volunteer with the Carneros Creek Water Quality Monitoring Program to help monitor seasonal Carneros Creek, a primary freshwater tributary to Elkhorn Slough. You'll be professionally trained to test for field measurements and flow, including how to collect water samples that will be analyzed at a certified lab for bacteria, nutrients, total suspended solids, and pesticides. Contact Debie Chirco-Macdonald at djchirco [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org or (831) 464-9200 to get involved. Learn more here.

Volunteers Sought for March for Climate Leadership: February 7
On February 7, thousands of Californians are gathering in Governor Jerry Brown’s longtime home of Oakland to say that we need real climate leadership in the face of the drought. Across the state wells are drying up, more than a dozen cities are in real danger of running out of water, and there’s no question it’s being made worse by climate change. Volunteers are needed to make the march happen, so volunteer online here. Find out more about the March and how you can participate here.

Arboretum Volunteer Gardening Opportunities

The Arboretum has volunteer gardening hours throughout the week. Visit their website for details. 

Volunteer with Sea Slugs, an Ocean Conservation Org

Sea Slugs is an ocean-minded campus organization dedicated to environmental stewardship. It is an excellent opportunity for students (both undergrad and grad) to engage in the greater community through public service while making a positive impact on the local environment. For information about meeting times and opportunities, contact Sea Slugs at seaslug.ucsc [at] gmail [dot] com or visit their website.

Volunteer at a Campus Garden

Want to get your hands dirty and nurture the plants in our campus gardens? Visit the calendar to find out when garden work days are happening here.

Get Involved with Integrated Climate & Energy Study

Interested in climate and energy sustainability? Want to get hands-on experience exploring these topics in relation to our campus? Chrissy Thomure, Climate Action Manager in the Sustainability Office, is coordinating an Integrated Climate & Energy Study with key stakeholders and a consultant. The study launches this year, and students are encouraged to participate! Email Chrissy at cthomure [at] ucsc [dot] edu to find out more.

Find or Upload Projects to Sustainability Project Clearinghouse

Interested in getting involved in a campus sustainability project, but don't know how? Are you looking for partners for your current project? Have you completed a project that you would like others to learn from? Visit the Sustainability Project Clearinghouse, a centralized database of UCSC sustainability projects, today! You can view published projects or upload your own projects and ideas. For training on how to upload a project, please contact Shauna Casey at scasey [at] ucsc [dot] edu.