UCLA School of Education & Information Studies Listening Exercise

Attendees at the chancellor’s Listening Exercise with the School of Education & Information Studies on March 7, 2025 engaged in a lively discussion with Chancellor Frenk about UCLA’s efforts to support lifelong learning, the university’s response to budgetary constraints, and how the institution is supporting students who are feeling anxiety in light of the current political climate.

Speakers emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, particularly given UCLA’s location within the multicultural City of Los Angeles. Beyond connections to the local area, several attendees highlighted the need for UCLA to expand its global connections and partnerships.

Themes

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Listeners expressed interest in the principles that shape the chancellor’s approach to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Attendees emphasized the importance of these values as they relate to the School of Education & Information Studies’ guiding philosophy.  
• Immigration: Speakers emphasized the need to ensure that undocumented students feel welcome and supported at UCLA. The value of long-term education for undocumented students was also discussed. 
• Local Connections: Attendees discussed Chancellor Frenk’s comment that UCLA is not just a university in Los Angeles, but a university of Los Angeles — emphasizing the importance of the institution’s deep connection to the city and its diverse communities. 
• Global Connections: Attendees commented on the importance of maintaining and expanding UCLA’s global connections and partnerships with international institutions.
• Budgetary Concerns: Attendees expressed worry about budget shortfalls and asked for clarification on the university’s plans to address financial challenges.
• Lifelong Learning: The role of lifelong learning in UCLA’s mission, including how professional schools can contribute to this effort, was a topic of discussion.
• Student Support: Attendees acknowledged the university’s efforts to support students, particularly those displaced by recent disasters.