UCLA External Affairs Listening Exercise

Attendees at the chancellor’s Listening Exercise for External Affairs on March 13, 2025 raised a variety of questions regarding the future of UCLA. Some speakers expressed worries about the impact of budgetary constraints and the uncertainty surrounding federal funding. Community engagement was another topic of discussion and focused on the need for UCLA to be a relevant and committed partner to the communities it serves, as seen in  recent events like the wildfires. A speaker asked how the External Affairs team could help mitigate these challenges and foster growth and collaboration within the university and beyond.

Concerns were also raised about the potential impact of new federal policies on higher education, with one speaker noting a perceived “assault on higher education” coming from Washington. The role of philanthropy in supporting UCLA was discussed, addressing the need to encourage faculty, researchers, and medical professionals to view philanthropy as a valuable resource.

An audience member also raised the importance of communication skills in leadership, suggesting that this skill is particularly important when considering candidates for deanships. Other speakers emphasized the need for the university to advocate for its diverse student body, particularly in the current political climate. One speaker inquired about the role of parents and families in students’ college education and the dynamic between the university and its parent constituency.

Themes

• Federal Funding: The impact of budgetary constraints and the uncertainty surrounding federal funding were major topics of discussion. Conversation focused on UCLA’s reliance on federal funding for faculty and research, as well as the need to explore alternative funding sources.   
• Philanthropy and Fundraising: The importance of philanthropy and fundraising was emphasized, particularly in light of potential funding shortfalls. Speakers encouraged faculty, staff, researchers, and medical researchers to partner with External Affairs to discuss philanthropic opportunities. Attendees asked about the chancellor’s greatest success in past fundraising efforts.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): There was a strong emphasis on the need to advocate for and represent UCLA’s diverse student body.
• Community Engagement: UCLA’s role in engaging with and supporting the surrounding Los Angeles community was discussed. UCLA’s role in supporting the rebuilding and reimagining of Los Angeles after the recent wildfires was also a major topic. Discussions focused on how UCLA can become a more relevant and committed partner to the communities it serves.
• Federal Policy Changes: The impact of the current political climate on higher education was discussed.
• Athletics: The role and value of Athletics to the university was discussed.
• Parent and Family Involvement: The role of parents and families in the student experience, as well as the dynamic between the university and these constituencies, were discussed. 
• Chancellor’s Vision: Attendees asked about the chancellor’s vision for the university, as well as his greatest aspirations and concerns.