UC Santa Cruz and Amah Mutsun Tribe Strengthen Environmental Research Partnership

The Academic and Student Affairs Committee of the University of California convened on July 13, 2025, to discuss significant developments at the Seymour Center and address concerns regarding campus climate resources and incident reporting.

The meeting began with a presentation highlighting the innovative work being done at the Seymour Center, led by its enthusiastic director, Jonathan. Committee members praised the center's efforts to engage the public and connect scientific research with community education. Regent Hernandez commended the center's model, suggesting it could inspire similar initiatives across other campuses. He emphasized the importance of public engagement in universities and expressed his willingness to volunteer for future projects.

Chancellor Lareve also acknowledged the center's role in fostering partnerships with local organizations, particularly the Amah Mutsun tribal band. She noted the significance of translating complex research into accessible information for families and children, particularly in addressing climate change. Chairman Lopez of the Amah Mutsun tribe shared the long-standing relationship between the tribe and UC Santa Cruz, highlighting the educational achievements of tribal members and the importance of restoring cultural identity through collaboration with the university.

The meeting transitioned to a discussion on campus climate resources and incident reporting. Concerns were raised about the slow response times to complaints filed by students regarding classroom incidents. A committee member expressed the need for improved administrative responses and proposed solutions to enhance the reporting process.

The session concluded with remarks from student observer Audrey Jacobs, who reflected on her experience serving on the committee and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent student voices. The committee acknowledged her contributions as she prepares to conclude her term.

Overall, the meeting underscored the university's commitment to community engagement and the importance of addressing student concerns regarding campus climate. The discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships and improve administrative responsiveness, setting the stage for future initiatives.