UC Tech News is excited to launch the UC Tech Leaders Q&A Series in 2026—a series designed to spotlight the voices shaping technology across UC.
Are you interested in how artificial intelligence is changing the way we think about user experience? Join Rachel and the UCUX community for a virtual event on November 6. Learn more here.
What is Your Name?
Rachel Hollowgrass
What is Your Title? UC Location?
User Experience Lead, UC Berkeley
What are Your Top IT/Security Priorities in 2026?
Incorporate AI that is user friendly and minimizes resource consumption.
What Emerging Tech Excites You for Higher Ed?
AI
What Emerging Tech Worries You?
AI
Tell us about shifting attitudes toward AI.
A few years ago, in UX interviews, people wanted AI to do everything for them, and were surprised when it did not. Today, people are more cautious. When presented with AI assistance, they ask “What does it know about me? Will my data be shared? What are the resource impacts?” These concerns are valid. After an organization procures AI tools, UX practitioners can play a vital role in keeping user trust at the forefront. I recommend designing contextual cues that proactively inform users about privacy, security, and resource usage at the point of interaction.
How Do You Balance Innovation with Security?
Highlight the benefits of authentication while making it easy for someone to confirm that they are in a secure environment.
What Principles/Values Shape Your Leadership?
Collaboration and shared vision
What Books are You Currently Reading?
“Parade” by Rachel Cusk
What’s Your Favorite Thing to Do Outside of Work?
Go hiking with my family
Thank you for the conversation, Rachel!
Rachel Hollowgrass
User Experience Lead, UC Berkeley
Tech Leader Spotlights
UC Tech News is excited to launch the UC Tech Leaders Q&A Series in 2026—designed to spotlight the voices shaping technology across UC. The UC tech community values hearing directly from its leaders, and this series aims to be both inspiring and informative.
Do you want to nominate our next UC Tech Leader? Email us at UCTechNews@ucop.edu.
Are you a tech leader at UC? We’d love to hear from you! To participate, please complete the short Q&A form and please include a photo.
