Following an internal search, Piri Ackerman, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.D.L.N., A.N.E.F., F.A.A.N., professor and associate dean for Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis, has been appointed interim associate vice chancellor for Health Equity by Design for Inclusive Excellence (HEDI).

Members of the UC Davis community reflect on Dolores Huerta’s enduring legacy of advocacy for farmworkers, civil rights and collective action. Among them, Avanza Director Mayté Frías recalls a leader who, even while being honored for her accomplishments, remained focused on educating and organizing others.

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UC Davis Inclusive Excellence is refreshing its anti-racism and anti-discrimination resources, including the 11 Suggested Actions Towards Anti-Racism, as part of a broader effort to update resources for today while preserving the history that shaped this work.

On Tuesday, October 27, members of the university community gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Mariel Vázquez. Mariel Vázquez was a remarkable mathematician. She was also an accomplished molecular geneticist.

Renetta Garrison Tull, UC Davis vice chancellor for Inclusive Excellence, presented examples of the university’s artificial intelligence research and educational initiatives Oct. 16 at the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. Her presentation, “Artificial Intelligence: Examples in Research & Development,” was part of the Eleventh Regular Meeting of the Inter-American Committee on Science and Technology.

What can a book club teach us about navigating difficult conversations, understanding different perspectives and building community?

Across UC Davis and the University of California, researchers, educators and community partners are advancing civic learning through scholarship, public programs and opportunities for engagement. Together, these efforts underscore the role of universities in preparing people not only to participate in elections, but also to engage thoughtfully in civic life. 

Kupiri “Piri” Ackerman, professor and associate dean for Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis, has received the 2026 Women & Philanthropy Impact Award.

The award recognizes her leadership in expanding opportunities in nursing education, mentoring future health care professionals and advancing inclusive excellence.

“It is such an honor to be recognized for the work you love,” Ackerman said.

The City of West Sacramento honored the Avanza Rising Scholars Conference during its annual Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation, recognizing the conference's contributions to expanding educational opportunity for students and families throughout the Sacramento region.