University of California, Merced
EN-7: Employee Orientation

As the first new research campus of the 21st century, the University of California, Merced has an opportunity to demonstrate from the ground up sustainable environmental, economic, and social systems that conserve the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The New Employee Orientation (NEO) at UC Merced provides new employees their first encounter with sustainability. Matthew Hirota provides an overview of sustainability and waste to New Faculty and Staff members at UC Merced. In addition, New Employee Orientation is conducted the first Friday of every month and Gene Barrera, Associate Planner from the Physical and Environmental Planning Department conducts a 20 minute presentation to new employees explaining the importance of sustainability. Mr. Barrera provides the basic foundations of the sustainability initiatives and explains how they are important to on going UC Merced Management. In addition, he explains to new employees how they can play an indispensable role in attaining our campus sustainability goals. During the presentation Mr. Barrera explains that the Sustainability Strategic Plan is UC Merced’s roadmap to incorporate sustainability practices throughout the campus. After attending the NEO our staff members should embrace the opportunities to collaborate in every aspect.