Presented Quarterly

by the

Lean Ambassadors Bench (LAB)

Lean Insights

Issue 002

1 June, 2024

How Lean Can Help in Tough Budget Times

by Bernadette Hill

Amid historic budget challenges, UC Davis is promoting the initiative, "Establish a Culture of Continuous Improvement." This initiative highlights the knowledge and ability that is already available here at UC Davis to streamline processes, which simplify work and add value for both external and internal stakeholders. By applying Lean methodologies, many universities have already improved cost and efficiencies and generated additional revenue across various departments. By eliminating waste, standardizing processes, and fostering continuous improvement, universities can enhance their financial performance while delivering high-quality education and services to students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders. Click here to read more...

Lean Ambassadors Bench

2023-2024

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The Lean Ambassadors Bench (LAB) 2023-2024 cohort concluded their inaugural year with a guest speaker, Elizabeth Swan, who shared valuable insights on the importance of recognition. This year's LAB members significantly contributed to the development of a Lean Community of Practice strategic plan, authored news articles, and helped raise awareness of Lean across UC Davis. Thank you, LAB members, for your dedication and hard work.


Livin’ Lean!

Check out how UC Davis staff are applying Continuous Improvement (CI) methods to enhance their lifestyles!

Learn how Krista Newberry, from UC Davis Health, uses Lean principles to nourish her garden and community in “Growing With Lean”.

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Lean Current Events

UC Davis Projects in Progress!

Click the image of the Ideas At Work Projects in progress
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UC Davis Experts Share Knowledge at UCSD Annual Event

Process Palooza

Speaker Spotlight

Picture of Priya Venkatesan, speaker at this year's UCSD Process Palooza
Picture of Alicia Webber, speaker at this year's UCSD Process Palooza
Picture of Bernadette Hill, speaker at this year's UCSD Process Palooza
Book Cover reading "The Adkar Advantage"

The ADKAR Advantage by Karen Ball illustrates the power of the ADKAR Model in driving successful change. Filled with real-life challenges and testimonials from the global change community, this book is recommended to anyone looking to inform, influence, and inspire change success. Download your free copy today!

"Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence." - Vince Lombardi

Lean Toolkit

Access the Process Improvement Toolkit to enhance your workflow! It includes a comprehensive glossary of terms, practical templates, and valuable process improvement resources. Explore the toolkit to drive efficiency and success in your projects. Subscribe to Lean Community of Practice listserv to get the latest updates on everything lean at UC Davis!

Connecting with You!


  • At the Administrative Management Group (ADMAN) Conference in March 2024, hosting the first tabling booth was thrilling! This was not just about showcasing work; it was about passionately promoting Lean Six Sigma methodologies and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The audience engagement was incredible. Thank you for the support and interest in these initiatives.
  • Lean Higher Education (Lean HE) is hosting a free LeanHE Encore virtual conference on June 13. More information and registration link available here.


Priya Venkatesan, Bernadette Hill and Michelle Agnew from the Office of Business Transformation standing next to a poster at the ADMAN Conference.

From Left: Priya Venkatesan, Bernadette Hill & Michelle Agnew from the Office of Business Transformation

the uc davis logo with the words learn six sigma green belt

Green Belt Scholarship

UC Davis is promoting an initiative for Continuous Improvement. We offer Lean Six Sigma Green Belt training through UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education. Candidates complete a project yielding $10,000 savings for UC Davis. Scholarships are available for UC Davis employees. The application window for the fall 2024 cohort is now open. The final day to apply for a scholarship is June 20. Applicants will be notified of the results the week of July 15.

a screen shot of engagement calendar listed on lean community of practice webpage.

Explore the latest calendar of engagement featuring a variety of trainings, open office hours, and activities. Stay connected and participate in opportunities designed to enrich your experience and foster community involvement.

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