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FOA Institutional Development, Accountability and Responsible Engagement (IDARE)

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  2. FOA Institutional Development, Accountability and Responsible Engagement (IDARE)

Daring to Build a Better Workplace


What is IDARE?

IDARE stands for Institutional Development, Accountability and Responsible Engagement and reflects our commitment to be daring in how we work together. IDARE asks us to be bold, to strive for better ways of working, and to create an environment where everyone belongs. This work is essential because we know that diversity leads to innovation. When we bring together different perspectives, ideas and experience, we create space for new ways of thinking that push our work forward in creative and impactful ways. 

  • Dare to Listen: We are committed to actively listening to one another’s experiences with openness and respect, creating space for meaningful conversations that help us grow.
  • Dare to Grow: We embrace each other's experiences with curiosity and openness, daring to grow together by learning, challenging ourselves and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Dare to Act: We are committed to taking thoughtful steps towards positive change, recognizing that progress comes from consistent, mindful actions. 
  • Dare to Challenge: We question outdated policies and practices, seeking new approaches that promote equity and inclusion for everyone. 
  • Dare to Support: We uplift one another, fostering a culture of encouragement and shared responsibility for our collective success. 
     
Why it Matters

At FOA, we are proud to lead the way in this effort. We know that when people feel they belong, they do their best work. Our commitment to IDARE helps us build a positive environment where every person’s aspirations and contributions are valued. FOA’s leadership in this work sets a strong example for how we can drive progress while supporting the people who make it happen. 

 

Dare to listen, grow, act, challenge and support each other to create a workplace where everyone feels that they belong.
 

The History of IDARE at UC Davis

The IDARE initiative aims to promote a culture of opportunity and belonging. Following its success at UC Davis Health, the initiative expanded across all of UC Davis, with a strong focus on institutional accountability and leadership to promote the university's Principles of Community.

IDARE is guided by committees that bring together leaders and team members to advance this work. Accountability requires commitment, and FOA is committed to monitoring our progress and aligning with IDARE’s mission. To support this, we are forming a committee with representatives from each unit to share ideas, set goals and ensure both university-wide and unit-specific efforts to promote inclusive excellence are moving forward. This includes regular reporting on our progress to keep ourselves accountable.

Through collaboration, shared responsibility and a commitment to ongoing improvement, we aim to build a culture where everyone feels respected, valued and empowered.

Explore Workplace Diversity Data
Explore Our DEI Goals

FOA IDARE Committee

  • Executive Sponsors
    Clare Shinnerl, Tammy Kenber, Blair Stephenson

  • Administrative Innovation and Technology, Radhika Prabhu

  • Budget and Institutional Analysis, Sarah Mangum

  • Design and Construction, Julie Nola, Ashley McClure

  • Divisional Resources, Blair Stephenson, Nancy Hernandez

  • Facilities, Clint Lord, Christina Blackman

  • Finance, Matt Okamoto

  • Fire Dept., Nate Hartinger

  • Human Resources, Tammy Kenber

  • Police Dept., Joe Farrow, Kate Folker

  • Safety Services, Eric Kvigne

Special leadership from Human Resources — Lisa Sharp, Elizabeth Delo and Lyndon Huling — who play a key role in driving this work forward. 

Recent Articles

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Redwood SEED Scholars and FOA

  • by Jennifer Eting
  • April 28, 2025
  • FOA Staff News
  • University News
Meet the dedicated UC Davis Redwood SEED Scholars, student mentors and FOA supervisors who work together to advance our mission and build a more inclusive workplace.
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How FOA Made Our Systems More Inclusive for Everyone

  • by BreAnda Northcutt
  • November 04, 2024
  • FOA Goals
FOA successfully audited 400+ systems applications and made changes to 20 to ensure that employee names and gender identities are accurately reflected as part of UC Davis’ Gender Identity and Lived Name Policy.

Starting the Conversation in Your Department

If your team is just beginning or looking for ways to engage more deeply, here are some practical steps you can take:
 
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Create a Safe Space for Dialogue 

Schedule regular team check-ins that foster psychological safety, where everyone feels comfortable sharing experiences and ideas openly, with a focus on respect and active listening.

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Highlight Small Wins

Share examples of what’s working well in your team—small actions that make people feel included or supported can be great motivators.

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Make Resources Visible

Point out resources, workshops or reading materials that are available to your team. Encourage team members to explore these together or discuss how they can be applied to your day-to-day work.

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Invite Participation

Encourage colleagues to bring their ideas for fostering a more inclusive environment.

Get Involved

Whether you’re new to these conversations or already active, we invite you to connect with your IDARE committee representative. Share your feedback, learn from ongoing projects or find ways to get involved. By working together, we can create a workplace where everyone belongs.

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