The Office of Government & Community Relations serves as UC Santa Barbara's liaison to community partners at the federal, state and local levels. Working closely with these and other stakeholders such as regional Chambers of Commerce and other public agencies, the office advocates for the university’s goals and priorities.
Government & Community Relations also partners with the University of California Office of the President, the UC State Governmental Relations office in Sacramento and the UC Federal Governmental Relations office in Washington, D.C. to further public understanding and support for the university's tri-fold mission of teaching, research and public service.
Related Resources
Federal Government
The Office of Government & Community Relations acts as a liaison between the campus and members of Congress, Congressional and committee staff, and Executive Branch agencies to promote and garner public support for the University of California's legislative priorities.
The UC Office of the President has launched a Federal Updates website that provides information on current issues involving federal research funding, regulations, executive orders, immigration, education funding, and other issues that impact the university community.
State Government
The Office of Government & Community Relations works closely with state legislators, key staff, and agency officials on legislative and policy issues that impact the University of California system as well as our individual campus.
Local Government
The Office of Government & Community Relations works closely with local government including elected officials, administrators and staff, the business community, and other local groups to strengthen the connection between the campus and the greater community on a variety of issues.
Advocacy
Guidance on political activities from UC’s Office of General Counsel
As we approach election day, please be aware of UC and UC Santa Barbara’s policies regarding political activity to ensure compliance within the workplace. Adhering to these guidelines allows you to participate appropriately while maintaining university standards. For additional information, please review Guidance on Political Activities from UC’s Office of General Counsel.
The UC Advocacy Network (UCAN) is a community of UC students, alumni, staff, faculty, parents and friends who are dedicated to lending their voices to shape state and federal policies that promote the university's vision and priorities.
Learn about the UC Advocacy Network
Due to the University’s 501(c)(3) status and because we are a state entity, there are legal restrictions around the types of political activities campus employees can engage in on behalf of UC Santa Barbara.
Learn about Advocacy Guidelines at UC Santa Barbara
Contact Information
Government & Community Relations
1005 Cheadle Hall
UC Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA 93106-2012
Kirsten Zimmer Deshler
Director, Government & Community Relations
(805) 893-4588
kirsten.deshler@ucsb.edu
Kimberly Young
Assistant Director, Government & Community Relations
(805) 451-2161
kimberlyyoung@ucsb.edu