The spring semester is off to a great start! I want to first thank everyone for their hard work during the winter intersession. Many of you worked diligently behind the scenes on special projects, while others of you prepare for the influx of students on the first day. Regardless of your role in preparing for this semester, your work is valued and appreciated. You play an integral part in student success. As we move into the spring semester, I want to take this opportunity to highlight the work that ABA has accomplished recently.

I encourage you to take some time and walk over to the University Library breezeway and check out the beautiful new seating installation. Dean Amy Kautzman had the foresight to see the tremendous potential in this underutilized space. It is delightful to see many students already making themselves at home in the new space. ABA’s own, Grant Watkins, in Facilities Planning, Design and Construction Services, partnered with Dean Kautzman to deliver this project over winter break.

The partnership was forged over six months by designing, budgeting and fulfilling Dean Kautman’s vision. The pace includes a well-lit area in the north and south with Wi-Fi access, electricity, and ADA seating. It truly is a great place to study, join a group for coffee or lunch and enjoy the scenery of the University quad. One of the tenants of a successful and engaged community is the ability to come together for a common goal. Student success drives each of the departments on campus, and ABA can pride itself as being its biggest champion. As such, ABA donated $116,000 to ensure three fixed- seating classroom projects would be completed by the end of the year.

One of the great assets of the Zone Management team is that they regularly identify and prioritize classroom repairs and enhancements. Seating in Amador 240, Mendocino 1005 and Riverfront 1015 have been on the wish list for some time now, but with the donated funds, these rooms will finally get their much needed facelift. Be sure to check out the new and/or improved seating over the summer.

ABA staff work tirelessly towards student success, and we shine brightest during our busiest times. The Bursar’s Office and UTAPS are especially busy in the beginning of a new semester as new students navigate parking permits, fees, commuting, and new spaces on campus. Luckily, 15 ABA staff members volunteered this year to help at information tables, handing out commuter passes, answering questions, providing directions, and parking permits. This helped Bursar Office and UTAPS staff catch their breath a bit and ensure great customer service was given to each student and community member. This is a true testament of how you all draw on each other for support. I am very proud to be a member of the ABA team. Thank you for your hard work and constant support of student success. To read more about Mike's return to ABA, view the Welcome Back interview conducted by The FOCUS.