This July, the NSD Community Stewardship Committee (CSC) hosted its first community-building event at the beautiful UC Botanical Garden. Aptly named “NSD Plants the Seeds of Community,” this event was part of the CSC’s ongoing effort to foster a healthy workplace culture aligned with the NSD Community Agreement.
Cultivating a sense of connection and belonging is essential for a positive and supportive workplace environment, especially within a large division like NSD, which includes many groups spread widely across the hill and the field of nuclear science. Often, staff members from separate groups have limited opportunities to build stronger relationships. Events like this one provide valuable chances for colleagues across the division to connect, get to know one another better, and strengthen their sense of community.
At this gathering, NSD staff members, along with their family and friends, enjoyed exploring the garden’s scenic grounds and sharing delicious treats in a relaxed, potluck-style setting. Camaraderie was in “full bloom” as participants took leisurely walks, sampled tasty pastries and snacks, exchanged engaging stories, and shared plenty of hearty laughter throughout the day.
Both the NSD Community Agreement and the Lab’s Stewardship values emphasize teamwork, trust, and meaningful engagement within the Lab itself and with the broader community it serves. By bringing people together in an informal, enjoyable setting, community-building events like “NSD Plants the Seeds of Community” reinforce NSD’s commitment to these core values.
This first CSC-hosted gathering was a “tree-mendous” success, and it certainly won’t be the last!
Several community-building event attendees enjoying themselves in the UC Botanical Garden.
