From the Desk of Willie Brown V7N6

From the Desk of Willie Brown

I want to begin by thanking everyone who contributed to the operational success of Commencement for the Class of 2025. Special thanks to Campus Dining, Distribution & Logistical Services, Residential Operations Grounds and Custodial teams, the Campus Store, Transportation & Parking Services, and the staff members from the University Center and Events Center. Each department plays a pivotal role in celebrating our graduates. Whether supporting Commencement ceremonies or helping students move out, your efforts ensured that this important transition was handled with the care and professionalism UC Santa Barbara has come to expect from Housing, Dining & Auxiliary Enterprises.

This week marks another annual transition where HDAE shifts from housing nearly 10,000 student residents to preparing our facilities for summer conferees. This summer, we anticipate welcoming over 130 groups and 17,000 summer guests. Our work truly never stops, and I want to thank each of you for your efforts to provide excellent service to students, staff, faculty, and the broader community at UCSB day in and day out.

As we look ahead, the coming academic year will bring significant transitions and new opportunities for growth across our campus community. With a new Chancellor for the first time in 31 years, plus a new President of the UC System, it is an opportunity for Housing, Dining & Auxiliary Enterprises to showcase our strong collaboration between departments and commitment to excellence. 

I hope you join me in celebrating the accomplishments included in this edition and the upcoming retirements this June. The Compass newsletter will pause during the summer months and return in late summer as move-in approaches. Additionally, I look forward to sharing highlights of your incredible work from this academic year in the 2025–2026 annual report this fall. 

Until then, I hope you find time this summer to rest, recharge, and enjoy the Santa Barbara sunshine with your loved ones. Thank you for your continued dedication, adaptability, and commitment to excellence.

Wishing you a happy and healthy summer,

WEB