While CUCSA works on a number of initiatives, the primary deliverables come from internal work groups. Each year, CUCSA delegates are assigned to work groups, each of which is charged with researching a topical area and delivering recommendations to UC administration.
The 2026-2027 work groups are:
Engagement & Strategy
CUCSA has been at the heart of the Systemwide Engagement Survey for over a Decade, but this is changing. This year’s 2026 Engagement Survey will be the last to just go to Policy Covered Staff and next years will include Represented Staff as well. Additionally a number of the Campuses individually operate local surveys. The Engagement and Strategy work group will take the data from the latest Engagement Survey and local Campus surveys in an effort to develop recommendations and planning for Future Work groups.
Staff Recognition
CUCSA is committed to supporting staff and seeking solutions to improve staff retention, elevate morale, and mitigate turnover. Because staff appreciation and recognition are critical factors in being an Employer of Choice, the Staff Recognition and Awards workgroup will serve as a centralized systemwide data-sharing hub to analyze the effectiveness of monetary and non-monetary award programs currently in place across locations. The workgroup will develop toolkits for both formal and informal recognition, helping support a culture of recognition across locations. The workgroup is also charged with developing recommendations to formally recognize active participation in systemwide advocacy and leadership groups, such as CUCSA, as vital professional development that supports career advancement.