The Robert Mondavi Institute and the whole UC Davis campus have been buzzing with activity in the last week.

Winter academic quarter wraps up today, and the first day of spring brings new activities on the horizon that feature many students and alums.

Having seasonal fruits and vegetables like avocados and raspberries stocked year-round in your grocery stores seems like an agricultural triumph. However, three world-renowned chefs may disagree. On December 5, 2024, Savor: Open Kitchens inspired audiences, sparked curiosity, and encouraged a new perspective on their next meal. The event showcased how food choices impact traditional cuisines, country economies, and overall food waste in America.

The campus is quiet this week as the students enjoy the winter break. It's that time of year when we begin to reflect on the past 12 months and plan for 2025.

The days feel shorter, and the rainy weather has arrived for winter. We settle into this cozy season thinking about how grateful we are to our supporters, partners, and student workers who help bring food and wine programs to you and all our attendees who learn and have fun with the institute. We have exciting upcoming events, news, and videos this month.

Last Saturday, we welcomed TASTE guests for an evening of wine, food, and music in the courtyard of the Robert Mondavi Institute Sensory building. The weather was beautiful, and as I walked around and chatted with attendees and vendors, I was reminded how important it is to gather together and connect. I had so many great conversations with colleagues, friends, and neighbors.

When the academic year starts, there is always a buzz of excitement. Students are moving in, faculty are preparing for classes, and we are solidifying our events for the year.

This Saturday, UC Davis will host the 110th Picnic Day! It's a fantastic day to visit campus for the biggest open house you've ever seen. Visit the Picnic Day website to see the complete schedule. The Robert Mondavi Institute will host hundreds of visitors to taste olive oil, honey, and ice cream. There will also be winery tours, grapevine giveaways, and wine barrel-making demonstrations. I invite you to visit us!

From the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences

Online classes, masking requirements and isolation guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic made it hard for UC Davis students to connect and network.

Students in the Department of Viticulture and Enology sought to change that dynamic and they formed Women in Wine, a group for women and those who exist in women’s spaces to connect with others in production and winemaking. 

Spring has sprung at UC Davis, with the winter quarter ending and students finishing up finals before their spring break. Personally, I'm happy to transition into the new quarter, with many events to look forward to, longer days, and sunny weather.

It's hard to tell if it's winter or spring in Davis these days, with a mix of sunny and stormy days, but we are gearing up for the busy season right around the corner!

The UC Davis campus is quiet again for winter break, and the new year is approaching quickly. Reflecting on 2023, it has been a year of both consistency and transition.

My first three months as director at the Robert Mondavi Institute have gone by in a flash. I have enjoyed meeting with campus partners, collaborators, and supporters to learn how to continue highlighting food and beverage research and advancements in an enjoyable and approachable way. I'll continue these conversations, but I am already proud of the institute's fall programs.

Fall has arrived on campus with cooler days and a buzz of excitement as students move in and prepare for classes to start next week. It's one of my favorite times of the year, and I'm excited about the fall events we have lined up for you!

I'm honored to address you today as the new director of the Robert Mondavi Institute. If you missed the announcement, let me share my vision for the institute and background.