November 7, 2023

Thank You, Chancellor

“Chancellor Block is the kind of Renaissance man that UCLA attracts. He’s a psychologist, a scientist and an educator who has lifted the standards of UCLA and thereby the futures of its students. He has left my alma mater a stronger, more diverse school than when he arrived. That is a legacy to be proud of.” —Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ’69

“Chancellor Block exemplifies the UCLA motto of ‘Fiat Lux.’ Throughout his tenure, he sought to illuminate opportunities for learning, growth and community for students across our vibrant campus. Where there were opportunities to seek new knowledge, Chancellor Block encouraged it. Where there were opportunities to combat misunderstandings and intolerance with light and love, Chancellor Block enabled it. And where there were opportunities to inspire students to shine, Chancellor Block championed it. I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to serve my four years at UCLA under the Chancellor’s leadership and to have had the opportunity to work closely with him as the Undergraduate Student Body President. The heartbeat of the university beats stronger because of the Chancellor’s unwavering commitment and passion for the place and its people.” —Arielle Mokhtarzadeh ’18, former USAC President (2017–18)

“Gene Block is a visionary who will be remembered as one of the preeminent academic leaders of our time.” —Roger Wakimoto, Vice Chancellor for Research and Creative Activities

“Congratulations on your retirement! I enjoyed working with you to build the first Enrollment Management division at UCLA and in the UC system. Your support of my work with faculty, staff, students and alums was critical to our division’s success. Your presence at admitted student yield events and your willingness to share your experience as a first-generation student was always inspiring for students, especially first-generation students. Enjoy the gift of time!” —Youlonda Copeland-Morgan, former Vice Provost for Enrollment Management

“Leading a university the size of UCLA is no easy task in the best of times. Chancellor Block navigated unprecedented challenges and complex issues throughout his tenure, and he approached them in a thoughtful and collaborative manner.” —Casey Wasserman ’96, Chairperson, Wasserman Media Group

“A champion of international education and collaboration, Chancellor Block is well aware of the impact of jet lag, and yet he is not afraid of traveling far to connect with and inspire UCLA’s alumni, supporters, friends and partners around the world. He is also a thought leader among university presidents across the continents — a reason why UCLA is a leading global university.” —Cindy Fan, Vice Provost for International Studies and Global Engagement

“I have always been impressed by Gene’s ability to find the best people, listen to multiple stakeholders and balance competing interests. I have known his leadership of UCLA to be thoughtful, brave and kind, and he is someone I am honored to have the privilege to know and call a friend.” —Shirley Wang ’90, former Chair, The UCLA Foundation