University of California, Merced

23/10/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 23/10/2025 09:32

20 Years In, UC Merced Celebrates Achievements, Looks to Future

Entering only its 20th year since undergraduate instruction began, UC Merced is a recognized leader in conducting academic research, developing young minds for career success and driving economic growth, the university's chancellor said Wednesday.

Speaking to a gathering of campus and community leaders, along with members of the UC Merced Foundation Board of Trustees, Chancellor Juan Sánchez Muñoz delivered his annual State of the University address, honoring the pioneering spirit and can-do determination of the faculty, staff and students who celebrated the university's grand opening in fall 2005.

Less than a handful of buildings were complete on a campus still bustling with construction workers. Most of the first classes were held in the library.

Muñoz said founding Chancellor Carol Tomlinson-Keasey, in an opening day address, told her audience that "UC Merced resolved to reach the high standards for education and innovation set by the University of California's previous nine campuses.

"The chancellor knew then, as I do now, that the people assembled to learn, to teach, to work and inquire at UC Merced have indeed been and remain categorically up to the task."

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