Slugs at Sundown
Unwind with us!
Join us for Slugs at Sundown, an evening meet-up series connecting UC Santa Cruz alumni in Silicon Valley for networking, learning, and inspiration. Held at the UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Campus, it’s a chance to reconnect, explore ideas, and grow your personal and professional networks in a relaxed setting.
Each event spotlights a unique theme, showcasing diverse interests and industries within the alumni community. Whether expanding connections or engaging in meaningful conversations, all alumni are welcome.
November 2025
Humanity at the Helm: Thriving in an AI-Driven World
Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work, live, and connect — but it doesn’t define the future. What matters most are the skills and strengths that only humans bring: creativity, empathy, adaptability, and big-picture thinking. Join fellow UC Santa Cruz alumni for an evening of conversation and connection as we explore how to stay relevant, resilient, and future-ready in an AI-driven world.
Thursday, November 13, 2025
5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Campus
3175 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara
Erin Celise Smilkstein
(Porter ’96, Mathematics; she/her)
Erin Celise Smilkstein (Porter ’96, Mathematics; she/her), MA.Ed., is an international speaker, corporate enablement leader, and AI literacy educator whose work sits at the intersection of human leadership, alignment, and technology. She helps leaders, creatives, and high performers embrace AI as a tool while staying human, sharpening the skills that machines can’t replicate. Erin blends corporate experience with coaching expertise to teach practical strategies for thriving in a rapidly evolving workplace.
Upcoming Slugs at Sundown
Save the dates! All events will held at the UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Campus from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Themes and speakers will be added as announced.
Thursday, November 13
Humanity at the Helm: Thriving in an
AI-Driven World
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Subject TBA
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Subject TBA
Connect, Share, Network.
Slugs at Sundown offers a vibrant space for alumni to connect, gain inspiration, and celebrate shared experiences within the UC Santa Cruz community.
All alumni are encouraged to attend. Here’s what to expect at a Slugs at Sundown meet-up:
5:30–6 p.m. | Registration & light refreshments
6–7 p.m. | Welcome and introduction, speakers, Q&A – followed by networking
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Slugs at Sundown?
Slugs at Sundown is held at the Bowers Room in the UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Campus, located at 3175 Bowers Avenue, Santa Clara, CA, 95054.
What is the suggested dress code?
Feel free to come as you are! We expect many attendees to head to the event straight from the office, so we encourage you to wear whatever feels natural for you.
What is parking like?
Parking at the UC Santa Cruz Silicon Valley Campus is both ample and complimentary.
What refreshments will be served?
Light refreshments of coffee, tea, and appetizers will be provided, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
Is there a cost for Slugs at Sundown?
There is no fee to attend, but we do request advance registration.
What else should I know about Slugs at Sundown?
Our event is a celebration of diversity, bringing together individuals from all walks of life. It is designed for anyone who values inclusivity, open-mindedness, and a sense of community. No matter your background, ethnicity, gender, or beliefs, you are welcome to join us in fostering connections, understanding, and shared experiences.
Have additional questions or want to get more involved? Feel free to contact Tracy Murray, Corporate Development & Alumni Career Programs Manager, at tlmurray@ucsc.edu.
Past Events
Slug Women of Silicon Valley
March 2024
Unlocking Latinx Leadership
May 2024
Celebrating Queer Voices
November 2024
Entrepreneurship
February 2025
The Future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Silicon Valley
May 2025
The Art of Career Pivot
August 2025