Monthly Updates

Listening and Learning

Since the work began this summer, your feedback has guided how we communicate and deliver updates. For the Network, shared governance means more than sharing information; it means taking the time to hear diverse perspectives, sincerely consider them, and close the loop by explaining outcomes, even when a suggestion cannot be adopted. This is how we build trust and ensure the process remains both transparent and meaningful.

Over the past several months, we’ve seen that approach in action. In earlier polls, you told us you wanted clear written summaries, so we began providing them each month. Later, you asked for organizational models, and a high-level chart was shared in October. Each step reflects the same principle at the heart of shared governance: listening, responding, and following through.

 

Conversations with University Stakeholders

In recent weeks, Network leaders have met with Academic Senates, Associated Students (ASI) organizations, staff councils, and MPP and staff groups across IT, Procurement, and Accounts Payable.  These conversations have provided valuable insight into how the Network is perceived and where clarity matters most.

Across campuses, we heard recurring questions about job stability, workload, transparency, and campus identity—concerns that reflect both the scale of the transition and the care people have for their teams. Staff also raised thoughtful questions about reporting lines, service coverage, and how success will be measured. Others emphasized the importance of maintaining strong campus relationships even as services become shared.

Many expressed both support for the Network’s goals and understandable apprehension about the transition. These discussions reinforce that shared governance is about staying engaged, responding directly to concerns, and ensuring voices across every level of the organization inform how we move forward.

 

Pulse Survey Highlights

The November Pulse Survey showed growing awareness and cautious optimism about the Network’s goals. Many respondents agreed the Network will improve administrative functions and long-term stability, but clarity and transparency remain top concerns.

Several staff shared concern about job security and the need for clear timelines on reassignments, reflecting the uncertainty that often accompanies major change. Others expressed appreciation for recent progress and the direction of the work, noting the Network’s importance for sustaining our campuses over time. 

 

Quick Poll Results

Last month’s quick poll drew 145 responses, with nearly half (45%) wanting to know how daily work will be coordinated across campuses. The SFBRN team, in collaboration with university Human Resources leaders and the Chancellor’s Office, is working with MPP employees on intercampus supervision, and processes and protocols are being developed in alignment with labor contracts and standard practices.

Where applicable, staff travel between campuses is expected to be minimal. MPP employees may occasionally travel to other sites as part of their responsibilities. While the details are still being finalized, we will share more as the Network structure and Support Center come into focus.