Principles of Community

In 2003, UC Merced approved its founding Principles of Community. These principles have guided the campus in its growth so far. They will undoubtedly be reviewed and modified by future UC Merced faculty, students and staff.

The University of California, Merced is committed to learning, teaching and serving the people of the San Joaquin Valley, California, the nation, and the world, through excellence in education, research and public service. We strive to provide educational opportunities for all.

Our founding principles of community guide both the individual and collective behaviors of students, faculty, and staff. The university expects that all of its members will emulate these fundamental principles as individuals and as a community.

• We celebrate the spirit of academic excellence and strive to promote our University and its strengths through our daily interactions with students, staff, faculty and the community at large.
• We maintain a working and learning environment based on integrity, fairness, cooperation, professionalism and respect.
• We are a community comprised of individuals with multiple cultures, lifestyles, and beliefs. We celebrate this diversity for the breadth of ideas and perspectives it brings.
• We value the creativity of our students, staff, and faculty, and acknowledge both their individual and collaborative achievements.
• We encourage health and wellness and strive to develop a sense of environmental responsibility and stewardship among all the members of our community.
• We are committed to achieving tolerance in our community. All persons — faculty, staff, and students — regardless of background or lifestyle should participate and work together in a collegial atmosphere that we strive to make free of any and all acts of discrimination or harassment.
• We respect, support and value the civil and respectful expression of individual beliefs and opinions.

To review Academic and Staff Personnel Policies regarding nondiscrimination, refer to the At Your Service site [1] maintained by the University of California. For further information, please contact the Director of Human Resources/Affirmative Action Office [2].