University News

The continued world leadership of the University of California, Davis, in the fields of veterinary science as well as agriculture and forestry was recognized in rankings released today (March 25).

UC Davis placed second in the world and first in the nation in both subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Quacquarelli Symonds, or QS, is considered one of the most influential international authorities on university rankings.

A glass of wine is often a conversation starter — whether it’s a date or a celebration, wine ranks as a popular beverage that has stood the test of time, lending an effortless elegance to any occasion.

But is wine good for your health?

On January 5, 1909, the University Farm School, which became UC Davis, officially opened with 18 students and a mission to provide hands-on training in agricultural science and farming. After 117 years, CA&ES continues its impactful teaching, research and extension mission, earning recognition as the nation’s top agricultural college and a global leader in the field.

For nearly 20 years, the Olive Center at the University of California, Davis, has worked to improve the olive and olive oil industry through research, education and outreach. The center, known for its work in sustainable olive growing and improving olive oil quality, has named chemist Selina Wang as its faculty director to guide the next phase of research and innovation for the state’s growing olive industry.

UC Davis Distinguished Professor Bruce Dupree Hammock, an internationally recognized scientist and an acclaimed member of the UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology since 1980, died Monday, Jan. 5, in Davis. He was 78.

These past five months have been a whirlwind of activities, and I have really enjoyed getting to know many of you and learning about your research, curriculum and partnerships. I am so impressed with the level of excellence, professionalism, dedication and community that you all bring to your work. Each month I meet incredible new people and learn more about your research, outreach work and teaching, and I feel so privileged to be a part of this amazing place! 

We’ve had a busy month, and our faculty, staff and researchers continue to strive for excellence in everything they do. I want to thank our donors who supported several projects last month. We are so grateful for your gifts and commitment to the college!

UC Davis Chancellor Gary S. May led a delegation to Kenya this week to advance a landmark partnership between the State of California and the Government of Kenya focused on climate action, clean transportation, climate smart agriculture, public health and innovation. Chancellor May was joined by Samuel Assefa, director of the Governor’s Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, as well as several university representatives. The delegation was jointly organized by UC Davis Global Affairs, Institute of Transportation Studies and the Office of the Special Envoy on Climate of Kenya.  

Three professors in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at UC Davis have taken on new roles on the college leadership team, Dean Ashley M. Stokes announced.

Professor Jason Bond is the new executive associate dean, or EAD, after serving on an interim basis in that position for several months. Professor Anne Todgham is the new associate dean for agricultural sciences and Professor Amanda Guyer is associate dean for human and social sciences.

I am so excited to see so many new and returning students on campus! This week has been filled with amazing energy and enthusiasm with our first year and transfer College Welcome events, the ice cream social and Aggie Jumpstart welcome. I had the privilege of meeting some of our new students and their parents during dorm move-in. After joining the college this summer, it is great to see all the preparations as we gear up for fall quarter and start the school year!