The ARCHES Program is excited to present the Community Organized Informal Networking events (COINs) program for our ARCHES community. ARCHES COINs are cross-departmental, in-person networking, and peer mentorship opportunities open to all that you can use to connect with colleagues in small group settings. You can host an event or join an upcoming event.
What are COINs?
ARCHES COINs were established in an effort to bring the ARCHES community together by providing opportunities for networking, peer mentorship, and discussion. Modeled after the SOM’s DOMINOs program, these events are entirely community organized. Events should be open to participants across departments and schools and not limited to those within one division. Some examples of events include group activities, such as picnics, dinner, outdoor walks/hikes, sporting events, museums, creative workshops/classes, etc.
How and when do I apply for COINs funding?
As part of the ARCHES community, you are encouraged to submit an event as a host or participate in an existing event to connect and expand your network and community. If you are submitting an event, you must submit your idea no less than three weeks before the event is scheduled to take place (ideally at least five weeks before to ensure enough time for guests to register). Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and responses will be emailed within 14 business days.
What is the maximum amount of funding I can receive?
Events will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The total amount will typically not exceed $1,000. If your event incurs costs, please follow UCSF meeting and entertainment expense guidelines. Maximum expenses for food and beverage are: $31 for breakfast; $54 for lunch; $94 for dinner; $22 for light refreshments (this amount includes the cost of food and beverages, labor, sales tax, service and delivery charges). While no UC limits have been established for entertainment costs for morale-boosting non-meal activities, costs must be reasonable and typically range up to $50/person. You must submit one original, itemized receipt in order to be reimbursed. The receipt must identify both food and beverage charges.
Are there restrictions on what I can be reimbursed for?
The purchase of tobacco products is not permitted. The purchase of alcoholic beverages is restricted. While alcohol is not a standard allowable reimbursed expense, alcoholic beverages are permitted when accompanied with food as the main course/meal (i.e., not just appetizers). Please contact us prior to submitting your event idea if you plan to purchase alcohol.
Who is eligible to participate in an event?
COINs are open to research faculty from all schools, departments, and ranks. Researchers doing all types of science are eligible. COINs are intended to be groups of 5-10 people. To foster these small groups, events should be open to participants across departments and schools and not limited to those within one division.
What kinds of activities are eligible?
Some examples of events include group activities, such as meals, outdoor walks/hikes, sporting events, museums, creative workshops/classes.
What happens after an event?
Upon completion of the event, we ask that you submit a short summary (3-5 sentences) with photo(s), which ARCHES may use for promotional purposes. You must submit one original, itemized receipt and a complete list of participants in order to be reimbursed. The receipt must identify both food and beverage charges. Funding for approved activities will be provided by ARCHES; reimbursement will be provided to the host through the ARCHES program.
Who do I contact for more information?
If you have any questions or would like more information, please email Connor Riano and Claudine Catledge.