Message from the Chief Small Business Development Officer
|
|
|
|
|
Anthony Singleton
Chief, Small Business Development Officer
|
At UC San Diego, small business development and a sustainable supply chain are not just strategies; they are drivers of meaningful impact across our campus, community, and economy. In 2024, we proudly achieved 25.1% spend with small and diverse suppliers, directing $134.6 million to certified businesses. This investment strengthens the local economy while creating opportunities for diverse suppliers to grow alongside our campus. Streamlined processes and enhanced performance analytics ensure efficiency and compliance at every level. As a top recipient of federal research funding, UC San Diego leverages subcontracting opportunities to empower small businesses.
|
|
|
Federal research contracts exceeding $750,000 require subcontracting plans, and we work with principal investigators to identify certified small business partners. In 2024, this effort directed $87 million to small businesses, enabling them to contribute to groundbreaking research and innovation.
Our Small Business First program further demonstrates this commitment by prioritizing small and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE) for contracts between $10,000 and $250,000. Looking ahead, we aim to surpass 25% utilization by creating more pathways for small businesses to engage with campus growth and initiatives.
This commitment extends beyond procurement. Through partnerships with organizations like the North San Diego SBDC Advisory Board and the Public Agency Consortium, we prepare local businesses to partner with public institutions and expand equitable access to contracts. As part of the Anchor Institution Collaborative, we also strengthen San Diego’s economy by keeping procurement local and creating new opportunities for businesses to thrive.
Equally important is our focus on sustainability. From reducing single-use plastics in partnership with Amazon to launching pipette tip recycling programs, our initiatives earned UC San Diego the prestigious Platinum STARS rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). These efforts guide the next phase of our Sustainability Strategic Plan, which will expand green spending, strengthen partnerships, and reduce our environmental footprint.
What began years ago as compliance-driven initiatives has strategically developed into a culture of innovation, inclusion, and measurable impact. Today, our efforts uplift local businesses, families, and communities while supporting students, faculty, and researchers. Together, we are shaping a future where small business enterprises thrive, sustainability is second nature, and UC San Diego stands as a model of socially responsible innovation in higher education.
|
|
|
Core Bio Services Hot Topics Webinar
In Case You Missed It
|
Core Bio is pleased to share the recording of our August Hot Topics webinar: Budget-wise & Sustainable Research Supply . The session examined how Core Bio Services supports UC San Diego researchers in a changing landscape, balancing tight budgets with sustainability goals. Attendees learned about same-day access to lab supplies, innovative cold storage solutions, and eco-friendly initiatives that minimize waste while maintaining high performance. Whether setting up a lab or managing ongoing experiments, Core Bio Services provides reliable, efficient, and environmentally conscious solutions.
|
|
|
Procurement Spotlight
UC San Diego Launches Soft Plastics Recycling Pilot
|
|
|
|
|
UC San Diego is partnering with Encinitas-based Plastic Beach to launch a one-year pilot program addressing the challenge of recycling soft plastics, such as shrink wrap. These materials often end up in landfills because standard waste haulers cannot process them; they can jam sorting equipment and disrupt recycling streams. IPPS's FM Procurement collaborated with internal and external partners to bring Plastic Beach on board as a supplier, establish the purchase contract,
|
|
|
and move the initiative forward. The pilot kicked off with collection points in Geisel Library and the Bookstore, which timed perfectly for student move-out, a period that generates high volumes of waste. Each month, Plastic Beach collects and compresses soft plastics into bales, which are then sent to downstream recycling partners for proper processing.
|
|
|
The Passport Office specializes in taking professional passport photos that meet all of the detailed specifications required by the U.S. Department of State to ensure your application is not delayed or rejected.
|
UC San Diego Passport Office Joins IPPS
New Website Coming Soon
The UC San Diego Passport Office is now part of IPPS. Stay tuned for the launch of the new Passport Office website, which will be housed within the Services tab of the IPPS website. Designed with client service in mind, the new website will offer a faster, easier, and more intuitive experience, simplifying access to the services you need.
About Us
The Passport Office was formed in 2008 as a resource for students planning to study abroad. The predominantly student-powered department has grown into a thriving, self-sustaining small business that serves the needs of both Tritons and the San Diego community. Your support provides a unique opportunity for students to learn about business and engage with the community in a way that coincides with their academic learning here at UC San Diego.
Whether you're applying for the first time or renewing, the Passport Office has you covered.
|
|
|
Helping Students Around the World
From UC San Diego to León
At UC San Diego Surplus Sales, our work goes beyond landfill diversion; it can also create a lasting impact in communities worldwide.
One of our valued clients recently purchased 100 laptops from Surplus Sales, which he donated to students in León, Mexico. These computers are being given to the children with the highest academic averages, helping reward their hard work and giving them access to technology that can open new opportunities.
This donation demonstrates the power of generosity and the ripple effect of Surplus Sales. By connecting buyers with quality equipment, our program doesn’t just support UC San Diego; it helps make a difference in the lives of students across the globe.
We look forward to sharing more stories like this. It’s a proud reminder of how our efforts can extend far beyond our campus borders.
Join Surplus Sales Secondhand News to stay connected and see what's "new" at Surplus.
|
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
See What's "New" at Surplus Sales
|
|
|
|
|
Pink Honda ATV
Rev up the excitement with this eye-catching pink ATV, the perfect blend of style and adventure. Whether you’re exploring trails or cruising around for fun, this ATV delivers both performance and personality. With its bold color and sturdy design, it’s as playful as it is reliable. Don’t miss your chance to bid—this auction item is ready to take your rides to the next level.
|
|
|
Ready to make it yours? Place your bid now by visiting the UC San Diego listings on GovDeals.
|
|
|
|
|
Set of Leather Accent Chairs
When it’s time to unwind, this set of chairs invites you to sink in and relax. It’s perfect for curling up with a book, enjoying a quiet moment, or adding a touch of modern elegance to any room. Start the Fall quarter with this unique set and make your space a retreat.
|
|
|
Campus Partnership Program
|
|
|
Ready to show your Triton Spirit?
University Credit Union Triton Cards
UC San Diego | University Credit Union members can show their Triton spirit with credit and debit cards designed exclusively for the UC San Diego community. The official Triton card products feature the Triton Athletics logo and an iconic image of the UC San Diego Geisel Library. Ready to show your Triton Spirit? Visit the UC San Diego | University Credit Union member website to learn more.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Jasmine Montilla
Professional Buyer, Compliance Specialist
by Lewis Aguilar
Meet Jasmine Montilla, a professional buyer and compliance specialist within IPPS whose work touches on some of the most complex and often least understood aspects of procurement. Jasmine specializes in navigating California labor laws, conflict-of-interest policies, and compliance rules that ensure UC San Diego’s purchases are both legally sound and ethically fair. “On paper, my role is about compliance,” Jasmine explained. “But really, it’s about education and empathy.
|
|
|
Nobody likes to hear ‘no,’ so when I do have to deny something, I make sure it’s framed as: this isn’t the right path, but here’s where you can go instead.”
That perspective shapes much of Jasmine’s day-to-day work, which ranges from one-on-one meetings with campus partners to improving processes and systems. She thrives on helping others understand complex policies from labor classifications to supplier conflicts and guiding them toward better solutions.
|
|
|
Her journey to IPPS wasn’t straightforward. Originally from Rhode Island, Jasmine earned her degree in accounting before realizing that the traditional path wasn’t the right fit. After relocating to San Diego, she began her career at UC San Diego as a temporary employee in travel and entertainment.
From there, she took on roles across disbursements, procurement cards, banking services, and more, each time bringing a mindset of flexibility and curiosity. “If a door opens, step through it,” she says. “Even if you’re afraid, you have to try.”
|
|
|
|
Outside of work, Jasmine prioritizes mindfulness through meditation, journaling, and painting, whether in watercolor, oils, or acrylics. She also expresses her creativity through nail design, sharing her art on a separate Instagram page.
When reflecting on what inspires her, Jasmine points to her mentor, Veronica Wilson. “She reminded me that even if I’m not the cookie-cutter mold, my path is powerful. Having someone who looks like me, who has walked a similar journey, reinforces that I belong in these spaces.”
For Jasmine, success is not only about compliance but also about collaboration. “Procurement is really about protecting the university while supporting our partners. It’s not just a fence; it’s a relationship. And the most rewarding part of my job is when people walk away feeling respected, understood, and better prepared for the future.”
|
|
|
New IPPS LinkedIn Account!
Join Our Network
IPPS is excited to share that we’ve officially joined LinkedIn !
Our page will serve as a hub to highlight the work we’re doing across campus, celebrate the people who make it possible, and share updates, initiatives, and opportunities that impact the UC San Diego community. By following us, you’ll stay connected with the latest news, stories, and insights from IPPS.
We invite you to follow our page, engage with our posts, and help us grow our presence on LinkedIn. Together, we can highlight the impact of IPPS within our Triton community and beyond.
|
|
|
Exemplary Staff Employee of the Year Awards
Congratulations to IPPS Staff Awardees
We are proud to share that two IPPS team members, Heather L. Bradley and Jasmine Montilla, were recognized at the campus level as recipients of the Exemplary Staff Employee of the Year Awards.
Heather L. Bradley
Financial Services Analyst
Heather was recognized for her collaborative spirit and dedication to supporting her colleagues. She has been instrumental in streamlining processes across accounts payable, supplier management, tax, and disbursements, and her leadership during key initiatives has made a lasting impact across UC San Diego.
Jasmine Montilla
Compliance Specialist
Jasmine was honored for her leadership, innovation, and commitment to service. She has improved campus practices through system and contract initiatives, while also mentoring students, volunteering at campus events, and advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Larry Angel
Senior Associate Director
Larry was recognized for his leadership and commitment to service for over 20 years at UC San Diego. He oversees the Cashier team within BFS and the Passport Office under RRSS, where he has streamlined passport access and supported departmental transitions. Larry continues to foster an inclusive, supportive environment that uplifts his colleagues and strengthens the campus community.
Heather, Jasmine, and Larry's recognition is a proud moment for IPPS and a testament to the impact of our team across UC San Diego.
|
|
|
|
