UCnetwork: June 2026
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Meet the Class of 2026
This spring, 64,000 undergrads will earn their degrees at the University of California. Behind each of those hard-earned diplomas is a story — from a 15-year-old making history, to an Olympian/astrophysicist, to students who overcame significant challenges to earn their degree. Get inspired by our stellar graduates.

Attend a conversation with President Milliken and historian Beverly Gage
On Thursday, July 9, at 12 p.m. (PT), celebrate America’s 250th anniversary by joining President Milliken for a conversation with Beverly Gage, Ph.D., a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and leading scholar of 20th-century U.S. history. Register here to join us.
More insights into U.S. history: Learn about the unsung heroes behind D-Day’s success — UC researchers — and what Brendan Fraser’s new movie, “Pressure,” leaves out.

Five must-read stories from the latest UC research
From applause-worthy cancer breakthroughs to protecting whales, GLP-1’s anti-aging properties and an abalone’s love life, check out our roundup of fascinating UC research news.
Help put California’s research bond before voters: Only a short window remains for legislators to decide if Californians will get to vote on SB 895, a proposal for a $12 billion research bond to create long-term funding for scientific and medical research. Now is the time to act: Email your lawmakers to ask for their help in ensuring SB 895 reaches the November ballot. Learn more about the proposal’s potential impact — including for California veterans.

Celebrate Pride Month with UC Press
In celebration of Pride Month, University of California Press is highlighting books that explore LGBTQ+ history, culture, justice and community — including scholarship that advocates for the health and well-being of trans and gender-nonconforming people.
Learn how UC Press is advancing the conversation about identity, equity, social justice and belonging, and find your next inspiring read.

Made in the USA, grown in California
Without California farming, American shopping carts would be a lot emptier — and pricier. But all that abundance is no accident: It’s the result of federal support for science and brilliant research going back to UC’s earliest days. Explore California’s agricultural heritage — and UC’s role.

Serving veterans while training future physicians
California’s veterans often face some of the nation’s most complex health challenges, from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury to chronic illness, cancer, substance use and housing instability. For decades, partnerships between U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers and UC medical schools have given veterans access to needed specialized care while also training the next generation of California health professionals.

Stay healthy by making the most of your moves
Research shows that simply moving more — even in small, everyday ways — is linked to better long-term health, including lower risk of early death and heart-related events. And, you don’t necessarily need to hit the gym or follow structured workouts. These simple changes can make a difference.
The key to happiness? Staying connected. A UC San Diego program teaches students practical skills to build better relationships with themselves and others. Try these 10 tips to get started.

UC sports legends who changed the world
UC athletes are at the center of America’s story, bringing people together in celebration, setting records, and creating opportunities for the next generation. Learn about Jackie Robinson and seven other UC sports legends who captured the world’s imagination and represented the best of America.
UC alums pursue glory in the 2026 World Cup: UC Davis star Max Arfsten will represent the U.S. and former UC Santa Barbara great Michael Boxall New Zealand as the world’s single biggest athletic tournament returns stateside for the first time in 32 years. Explore their journey to greatness.

UC People
Jason Amorosi, keeper of the caps and gowns
UCLA’s go-to guy for commencement attire recently celebrated his 27th work anniversary!
UC voices
“I had this vision of a little hedgehog on the side of the road in her little pink hiking boots, with her guitar in her bag, out to find the wows of the world.”
— Halle Stanford, independent television producer, sharing how research produced by UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center inspired ‘Wowsabout,’ a new TV special designed to bring awe to young audiences.
More UC news
Raise your voice: Get ready to take the UC Systemwide Policy-Covered Career Staff Engagement Survey
Investing in our people: UC announces 2026-27 salary program
Digital accessibility compliance updates
President Milliken: My conversation with UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk
Read the May 2026 CUCSA Corner newsletter
President Milliken: A great day at UC Berkeley commencement
Have an accomplishment? Let us know!
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For questions about UCnetwork, contact our editorial team at ucnetwork@universityofcalifornia.edu.