As we approach Veterans Day, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the hundreds of veterans who are part of our UC Davis family.

Your service to our country is deeply appreciated, and we are proud to have you as part of our community.

As many of you know, I am a veteran myself. My time in the Army not only helped me afford my undergraduate degree, but it also shaped the person I am today. I know many of you have had similar experiences, and I am incredibly proud to be part of a community where veterans continue to contribute so meaningfully to our mission. 

Veterans bring so much to UC Davis, and your leadership, resilience, and commitment are a powerful example of the values we hold dear in HR: People-First, Partnership, Integrity, and Innovation 

I share the words of Gregory Stanford, vice chair of the Veteran Employee Association at UC Davis Health: “Recognizing the contributions of veterans reminds us of the power of leadership in action and serves as a call to all leaders to embrace humility, service, and compassion in their roles.” Your dedication inspires us all, and we are grateful for everything you do, whether in research, teaching, healthcare, or public service. 

As we honor Veterans Day, I encourage all veterans to self-identify in UCPath if you haven’t already. This helps ensure that your service is recognized, and it allows us to continue offering the support and resources you deserve.

I also want to invite you to connect with the veteran community here at UC Davis through the Veteran Employee Association at UC Davis Health, and possibly continue your leadership by re-activating the campus’s Veteran Constituency Group — a key part of creating better opportunities for support, advocacy, and connection on the Davis Campus.

Additionally, HR remains committed to connecting with veterans through a variety of outreach efforts. From veteran hiring fairs and the Salute to Heroes football game at UC Davis, to Employment Development Department (EDD) events supporting disabled veterans, we’re focused on meeting veterans in meaningful ways, wherever they are, and linking them with valuable resources and career opportunities here at UC Davis.

I encourage you to take full advantage of the resources available to you, including the Veterans Success Center and the Veterans' Education Benefits available through UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education. The CPE page provides valuable information about educational opportunities for veterans, helping you navigate and maximize your benefits as you continue your professional journey. 

On this Veterans Day, I hope you all take time to reflect on the difference veterans have made in all our lives.

Thank you for your service and for continuing to make such an impact here at UC Davis.

I wish you all a meaningful Veterans Day and a well-deserved holiday weekend. 

With gratitude, 

Tammy Kenber 
Chief Human Resources Officer