University of California, Merced
EN-9: Staff Professional Development and Training

The Department of Sustainability developed the Virtual Bobcat Certificate Program. The Virtual Bobcat Certificate Program is a unique staff professional development and training opportunity that supports the resource management and sustainability performance evaluation core competency. The Virtual Bobcat Certificate Program is an innovative opportunity for staff professional development and training because it provides a unique opportunity for staff to learn about sustainable research and efforts taking place at UC Merced and fosters a conversation between faculty and staff. This program is especially innovative because it presents various talks on relevant and critical topics related to sustainability through the lens of multiple disciplines. This program is also innovative because it elucidates a holistic understanding of local sustainability efforts that captures the environmental, economic, and social intersections of sustainability.

Throughout the year and in alignment with job responsibilities staff have participated and attended professional development conferences provided by external organizations including the AASHE, the California Higher Education Sustainability Conference (CHESC), and USGBC Green Build conference.

Staff are also reimbursed for credential possession including LEED credential.

Resource management and sustainability is a core competency included in staff performance evaluations.

RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Demonstrates integrity, accountability and efficient stewardship of university resources in a manner consistent with the UC Standards of Ethical Conduct and other policies. Models and promotes behavior and practices supporting and institutionalizing sustainability.
1. Models and promotes safe behaviors in all work environments in accordance with university health and safety policies, procedures and guidelines
2. Embraces and promotes university ethical values and standards when managing and using resources
3. Demonstrates behaviors aligned with UC Sustainable Practices Policy and UC Merced Campus sustainability goals, including energy efficiency, water conservation, recycling and reducing greenhouse gas emissions
4. Models the use of sound judgment and accountability when managing human resources and using operational, financial resources

Sustainability is a core competency of the university's performance evaluation, and is reflected in the resource management and sustainability criteria.