Connection sustains us. We draw strength from our ability to come together, support one another and work collectively to achieve common goals. The recent wildfires reminded us just how powerful connection can be. The loss and hardship across our region have been heartbreaking, but the outpouring of support and kindness from Bruins everywhere has been heartening.
The power of connection is also behind our UCLA Connects: Listening Exercise — a series of more than 35 conversations I have been hosting with all schools and units across UCLA, as well as with alumni and friends. As I shape my priorities for the university, I want to know what matters most to Bruins. What are the aspirations and hopes that drive us? What are the opportunities and challenges that we need to tackle together? These discussions will help ensure that the future we are creating for UCLA brings together voices from across our full community.
At these events, I am hearing a combination of forward-thinking ideas and pressing concerns. Looking inward at our campus, it is clear that we must continue to foster a UCLA community where everyone feels a sense of belonging — a place where everyone is valued, and everyone adds value. With help from Dialogue across Difference and other initiatives from our Bedari Kindness Institute, we can move from polarization to pluralism.
Looking beyond our campus, Bruins are asking: How can we help rebuild Los Angeles and lift up our communities following the wildfires? Many efforts are already well underway. We recently announced a blue-ribbon commission alongside L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath — it brings together more than 20 experts from across UCLA to help reimagine our city and build back sustainably and safely. Earlier, we donated space at the UCLA Research Park for a disaster recovery center, and within two days, more than 1,000 alumni had volunteered to help. Volunteerism is a thread that connects our Bruin community with the larger world.
It is clear that our community is keenly aware of other challenges UCLA may face in the months and years to come. Issues arising from recent federal policy changes — such as a need to support our undocumented students, prepare for potential research disinvestment, adjust to possible changes in health care rules and navigate financial turbulence — are top of mind. The University of California Office of the President is taking the lead in responding to federal actions so we can draw on the strength of the full UC system and be coordinated in what we say and do. UCLA has also set up a federal updates webpage with information on how we’re supporting our community.
While Bruins have shared concerns and even some anxieties at the Listening Exercise sessions, it is also apparent that our community is looking toward the future with optimism. Our strategic plan continues to drive our immediate priorities. And, longer term, the 2028 Olympics will present a moment for UCLA to shine — as a cultural center, a host for the Olympic Village and an institution whose values align with the spirit of the Games.
I look forward to continuing our Listening Exercise and to meeting as many Bruins as possible through these discussions. Together, we are building a collective vision for UCLA. I will share this vision at my inauguration on June 5 and hope you will tune in.
Let us continue to stay connected and always remember: We are One UCLA.
Read more from UCLA Magazine’s Spring 2025 issue.