Vision

We envision our UCSF community to practice and embody a restorative mindset to foster mutual respect, empathy, and trust.​

Mission

We will achieve this by expanding the use of restorative justice practices and applying a restorative mindset in all the ways we build community, strengthen relationships, and respond to harm. By incorporating restorative justice practices into community-building and problem-solving, we foster healing and a spirit of camaraderie throughout the university and UCSF Health. 

Support

Due to the interconnectivity of the UCSF community and in recognition of the value of RJP services, Chancellor Sam Hawgood, with the full support of senior leadership, provided funding for the expansion of RJP services. While resources and staffing continue to be limited, the RJP services, previously only offered to students, will now be available to all trainees, faculty, and staff across the entire UCSF organization. Formerly a unit within Student Academic Affairs, RJP is now housed within the overarching Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost.

Chancellor Hawgood highlighted RJP in his 2021 State of the University Address in October 2021:

What People Are Saying

The response to restorative justice efforts at UCSF has been overwhelmingly positive.  Here are a few comments from community members.

  • "There are things in graduate school that affect many of us but that can be difficult to discuss, even among friends. Things like mental health, imposter syndrome, and your relationship with your thesis advisor. Circles have given folks in my program a unique space to discuss these topics, and I believe our community is stronger for it. And I feel more comfortable continuing these conversations offline than I otherwise would have." – Graduate Student
     
  • "Restorative Justice circles offered me the opportunity to build relationships in a way the institution rarely allows; it created a space for everyone in the circle to be open and honest, at our own pace. The circle both facilitated a space for us to share what really matters to us, and also makes sure that when we share, that we are supported after we put ourselves out there. Circle helps breaks down the hierarchies which are assigned and which we mold to in these fixed and rigid hierarchies, and allows us to see each other not as figures, disconnected email signatures, or twitter feeds, but as real human people with an incredible capacity for mistakes, compassion, and growth." – School of Medicine student
     
  • "It's important that everyone knows that there is a space where they will be heard and feel safe to speak vulnerably and from the heart. I've been working at UCSF for 15 years now and I never experienced this space until RJP circles. Just doing community building circles and hearing my colleagues share their values helps me connect with them and understand them better." – Lauren Cox, Office Manager, Student Life
     
  • "I have had the privilege of being a Restorative Justice (RJ) participant and facilitator. The tools used in RJ helps to create a space where participants can find community with others through active sharing and listening.  RJ has helped me become more mindful and a better listener. I am grateful that UCSF is supporting RJ and hope that it is used more to close the gaps that divide us so we can be one united community." – Peter Weber, Product Manager, School of Nursing