It’s a Thursday afternoon and Café 24, which is usually quiet this time of day, is abuzz with laughter, music and conversation.
This is the third Building Connections event, a Campus Life Services (CLS) initiative which encourages staff and residents to come together for a complimentary lunch to get to know their peers, building Facilities Managers (also known as “Building Connectors”) and the Facilities Services staff who work behind the scenes to maintain their buildings.
The event drew a record 107 attendees, who enjoyed a delicious complementary lunch and prize drawing coordinated with the support of Arts and Events staff Tamara Villarina, Jamie DeAraujo, Amy Fazio and Annika Le.
“It’s no secret that the sense of community that thrived before the pandemic, took a hit. So many of us began to feel isolated from our colleagues and even from the mission that each of us support. Events like this create opportunities to build relationships and that sense of community that is critical to the success of UCSF operations and research.” Facilities Manager Don Van Wie said.
In addition to providing an opportunity for colleagues to mingle in person, Building Connections also provides a direct line of communication between Facilities Managers and the UCSF staff and learners who work in their buildings.
"Though our Facility Managers (FMs) work with faculty, lab managers, and operations managers regularly, this event was different because it gave our FMs an opportunity to engage with other staff and learners that they don’t usually work with. Hearing their observations on how Facilities can improve the work and research environment is extremely valuable." Associate Vice Chancellor of Facilities Services, Cesar Sanchez said.
“It went so well! Lots of people showed up and there was a nice energy. Everyone was enjoying some good food, shooting pool, playing cornhole, and having some laughs. It also gave me an opportunity to have some fun times with the folks that occupy the buildings that I serve,” Van Wie said.
Faculty Administrative Analyst Ginger Huang was one of the lucky drawing winners who received a $25 gift card.
“It’s great to have a space where people can take a break and connect outside of work. The new area looks amazing and modern—I’m looking forward to more events here!” Huang said.
Events Assistant Amy Fazio, who has been involved in organizing the Building Connectors events starting with the first event at UCSF Parnassus Library, has been impressed by the turnout.
“It’s very well received, it’s showing appreciation for the folks in the building, and in turn, hosting the event really gives the facilities staff an opportunity to be appreciated,” Fazio said.
Facilities and Arts and Events are looking forward to hosting more Building Connections events in the future. If you or your team is interested in meeting your building's Facilities Manager, you can also schedule a walk-through.