One of the hallmarks of University Friends Circle’s programming is our monthly luncheons featuring outstanding UC Merced professors or local Merced area subject experts.
Luncheons are generally held on the first Tuesday of each month during the academic year, October through April. Members are encouraged to attend and are invited to bring guests who may be interested in that month's topic or in a future membership in UFC. Interested persons who are not yet UFC members are also welcome, but registration and lunch payment are required in advance. The printable PDF of the 2025-26 UFC calendar will be here in October.
The October 7 Kickoff luncheon will be 11:30am-1pm, in the Lakireddy Ballroom on campus, as always. Tonantzin Oseguera, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Engagement, will provide Campus Updates and get us excited about the upcoming year. The luncheon will be followed by an optional tour of the UCM 20-year anniversary exhibit in Kolligian Library. Register HERE by Sept. 30th to attend!
In addition to monthly luncheons, members are invited to participate in a variety of special events and initiatives, such as the following:
- The annual UC Intercampus Trip each spring. The 2026 trip will be to UC Berkeley.
- UC Merced athletic events with tailgate socials beforehand
- Snacks for Scholars to distribute food to students before finals each semester
- a lively holiday social December 16, 2025, at Visa Ranch
- and participation in the UFC Book Club, which meets every month
At the end of each spring semester, the Scholarship and Awards Reception and Annual Meeting are held jointly at UC Merced. This is a wonderful opportunity for members to meet the recipients of the UFC Scholarships and Community Service Awards and engage with the students who directly benefit from UFC’s fundraising efforts. Event information is emailed to all members 1-2 weeks before each UFC event.
SCENES FROM 2024-25 UFC LUNCHEON TALKS
We hope you will join us!
