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Becoming a Hispanic-Serving Institution With the Help of Latino Alumni

ith an unwavering commitment to its role as a public institution, UCLA's message is clear: building a campus that embraces and celebrates its Latinx communities isn't just a goal, but an imperative.

Chancellor Block recently announced the University's intention to become a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) by 2025, in an effort to strengthen access and expand opportunities for UCLA’s Latino community. He shared, “As a public institution, UCLA has a heightened obligation to ensure that we are doing all we can to make sure this is a campus that truly welcomes members of our Latinx communities, honors their intellectual and cultural contributions and supports their success.”

HSI designation would be an important step in a movement that started in the Civil Rights era to increase Latino enrollment and expand educational opportunities. Because of this activism, the Chicano Studies Research Center was established in 1969 to foster research and study of Chicano/Latino culture, history and contributions.

In 1993, students, faculty and community members engaged in protests, including a two-week hunger strike, to advocate for the establishment of Chicana and Chicano Studies at UCLA. In the ʼ90s, the Regents of the University of California passed SP-1 and SP-2, which was followed by California Proposition 209, to prohibit preferential treatment on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin in higher education. And recently, the Supreme Court ended higher education race-conscious admissions.

Today, Latinos make up 40% of California’s population, the state’s largest ethnic group. This dynamic and diverse community is a major force in California and the nation. Hispanic and Latino students have historically been underrepresented in higher education, and their success is intricately linked to California’s future prosperity. However, many Latino students have faced systemic barriers to a high-quality education, and their high school graduation rate is below the national average.

HSI designation requires new strategies and broad community-based efforts to support and empower California’s future Latinx leaders. The UCLA Latino Alumni Association (ULAA) are a passionate group of Bruin volunteers who are committed to supporting UCLA's Latino alumni, students and friends, and are an active partner in ensuring UCLA reaches this ambitious goal. One of UCLA’s fastest growing alumni groups; they were named as UCLA Alumni’s Network of the Year in 2019 for their exceptional contributions to the UCLA community.

Cesar Pacheco ʼ18, ULAA president and a commercial real estate professional, recognizes the group's unique position to bring people together. He says, “We’re a conduit for change. HSI is a University-wide movement, stretching across campus. We’re connecting with decision makers to increase our engagement and fundraising efforts.”

To be federally designated an HSI, 25% of students at the university must identify as Latinx. UCLA is currently at 22.2% Latino enrollment, as of fall 2022. With HSI designation, UCLA would receive federal grants to enhance educational programs for Latinx students, to the benefit of the entire campus community. HSI status has also been shown to enhance campus relationships among students, improve academic performance and raise graduation rates. But, as Chancellor Block reminds the community, enrolling greater numbers of Latinx students is not enough. He says, “UCLA also must enable these students to succeed by investing in academic and support infrastructure dedicated to their learning and growth.”

HSI designation requires not only meeting the enrollment numbers, but other requirements as well. Andres Snaider ‘88, ULAA university relations chair, says, “HSI is a rallying call. It’s a huge challenge, but it’s a huge opportunity as well. It emphasizes the priority of directing attention towards Latino students in all their dimensions ꟷ and how the University can best meet their needs.”

Snaider was a first-generation student and commuter who worked his way through UCLA. After graduating from law school, he became a business leader and entrepreneur. Recently, he successfully sold a company he had founded. The achievement presented an opportunity to give back to his community. He says, “I was able to make a difference in things I care about. My time at UCLA was a transformative experience for me.”

Snaider says, “It’s really hard to think of another organization [like ULAA] that has that kind of reach and that kind of commonality. It’s a huge network and there’s amazing potential to reach and make a difference for many people. What we do is help those students feel really connected to UCLA and all it has to offer.”

To invest in Latinx students, ULAA hosts career panels, networking and mentoring opportunities. ULAA’s Orgulloso mentorship program matches alumni with ULAA scholarship recipients and other Latinx students for one year, to help with professional development and personal growth. ULAA alumni share stories and provide insight from their personal experiences. Through engagement, they celebrate students and invest in the future generations. ULAA’s motto, "Hecho at UCLA," (made at UCLA) encapsulates the power of the college experience to create lasting change.

One example of a Bruin family making a difference in the lives of others are the Jaquez family — UCLA basketball players Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Gabriela Jaquez are the first brother and sister to make it to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen for the same school in the same season. This fall, Jaime will make his NBA debut, playing for the Miami Heat. The siblings, their parents and grandparents have been strong proponents of public education, academic achievement and personal excellence. The Jaquez Family Scholarship Fund will provide financial support for incoming freshman and transfer students at UCLA, and was launched at a recent event hosted by the UCLA Alumni Association, ULAA and UCLA Athletics.

Since it was founded in 1989, ULAA has awarded $1.5 million in scholarships to more than 800 students. ULAA president, Cesar Pacheco was able to attend UCLA with the help of financial support. He says the goal of providing scholarships to others unites alumni with a common cause. “I received a Blue and Gold Scholarship that made it possible for me to graduate from UCLA. Had it not been for those donors, I wouldn’t have been able to. Now I’m able to make a difference for other students financially and through volunteering my time and leadership.”

In 2022-23, ULAA raised a record-breaking $241,000, bringing them closer to their fundraising goal of a $1 million scholarship endowment. This included $36,130 from a successful Spark crowdfunding campaign. The board recently approved an ambitious four-year plan to distribute approximately $125,000 to 41 students, increasing their reach and impact.

Jennifer Mora ʼ96 is vice president of ULAA. As a professional fundraiser, the work of raising scholarship support for UCLA’s Latinx students is close to her heart. Mora entered UCLA as a first-generation, non-traditional transfer student, who saw college as a transaction in her pursuit of a career. However, UCLA was more than a stepping stone on her career path. She says, “My experience taught me I was worthy and capable of a quality education. UCLA instilled in me a love for learning, so I describe myself as a lifetime learner. The opportunity to give back seemed the natural thing to do. There is nothing more exciting than to be able to help the organization with fundraising for scholarships for current UCLA students.”

UCLA’s HSI status will benefit the entire campus community. Denise Pacheco, M.A. ’04, Ph.D. ’11, is senior director of Diversity Programs and Initiatives for UCLA Alumni Affairs. She says, “The pursuit of becoming an HSI does not diminish UCLA’s equally important commitment to increasing representation for all students. When we become an HSI, it provides an infrastructure that will support the success of all students, and especially communities who are not appropriately represented on the campus. It's essential to emphasize that equity is about identifying what different communities need and how that contributes to the success of the whole.”

Looking toward the future, ULAA board members are enthusiastic about UCLA receiving HSI designation. Cesar Pacheco says, “The fact that the Chancellor is taking steps to become an HSI is indicative of the progress that’s already happening at UCLA. It is a bold move and requires real action. Through their action and our support it will happen for the betterment of the UCLA community and for Los Angeles.”

ULAA is continuing to build a strong presence on campus and beyond. Mora looks at the big picture through the frame of her personal experience. “It's exciting for me, because UCLA changed my life. It changed the trajectory of my family legacy and I believe everyone should have that opportunity. I think about all my family members who didn't have an opportunity to go to college, and the thought of being able to provide more access is long overdue. And I'm here to see it happen.”

As the culmination of their efforts, the HSI task force formed by Chancellor Block published Cultivating the Seeds of Change: Becoming a Hispanic-Serving Institution, which provides more information about the history and process, as well as seven recommendations for achieving federal HSI designation.

More information can also be found by watching EmPower Hour: UCLA Efforts to Become a Hispanic-Serving Institution, hosted by Diversity Programs and Initiatives under UCLA Alumni Affairs.

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Alumni who are interested in joining a committee, attending an event, making a donation, becoming a mentor ꟷ or any of the many ways UCLA Latino Alumni Association members are making a difference for UCLA students ꟷ can find more information here.

Bruin-Owned Restaurants Part 3

s the summer sizzles, so should your food. We've compiled for you the third edition of select Bruin culinary businesses to tempt your taste buds and lure you to dine out in support of these UCLA alumni. Warning: the following images will make you hungry.

Contigo Latin Kitchen

Owner/Founder: Deborah Tenino ʼ92

Phone: 520-299-1540

Location: 3770 E. Sunrise Dr., Tucson, AZ 85718

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: eatatcontigo.com

Social: @contigolatinkitchen

About:

Contigo Latin Kitchen offers the best heirloom recipes in South America and Spain. Our menu combines vibrant flavors with the freshest ingredients available and our complex, multi-layered flavors leave diners surprised, delighted and always wanting more.

Review:

“We had a great time at Contigo Latin Kitchen. We sampled many of the tapas and my friend and I had the fish tacos which are so good, with the fish crisped to perfection. They are pet friendly and were so lovely to our little 5 lb Pomeranian Finley! We had an outdoor pet-friendly table on the patio that has a great view of the mountains on one side and a hotel, plus some people golfing, on the other. Service was lovely and friendly and prompt.” - V. V.

Blue Plate Oysterette

Owner/Founder: Jennifer Rush ʼ88

Phone: 310-576-3474

Location: 1355 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90401

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: blueplateoysterette.com

Social: @blueplateoysterette

About:

Having spent many years on the East Coast enjoying lobster rolls and clam shacks, Jenny Rush longed for this food in her hometown Santa Monica. BPO is committed to sourcing the best seafood from fishermen, purveyors and oyster farms around the world. Buying directly from fishermen and picking up daily at LAX ensures the best ocean-to-table experience.

Review:

“This was so good! The yellow tail sashimi with the green sauce was a perfect Asian-Baja mix, the touro sashimi basically melted in your mouth (and it didn't taste like metal!) and the holy trinity temaki was like a trio of flavors that basically took their time dancing on your tongue, acts one after the other, back to back, ‘til your head explodes from how genius an idea it is to have all these in one beautiful photogenic open face roll.” - Bry L.

Dulan's On Crenshaw

Owner/Founder: Greg Dulan (UCLA Extension)

Phone: 323-296-3034

Location: 4859 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90043

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: facebook.com/DulansOnCrenshaw

Social: @dulansoncrenshaw

About:

An iconic restaurant that first debuted in the '90s, Dulan's on Crenshaw Soul Food Kitchen is the home you can turn to for hearty meals, friendly staff and a strong sense of community. With our large portions, you can eat here for lunch and still have leftovers for dinner – that is if you can resist not eating every last bite. If you're planning an event and get a craving for our food, contact us for catering. We're always happy to know you enjoy the dishes we create and we can't wait to see you the next time you stop by for a taste of soul.

Review:

“The food is fresh and reminds me of the way my mom would cook when I was young. The staff was so professional and kind. And I really liked how the owner greeted my family and me to ask us if everything was okay. Great hospitality which is missing in so many places. So I will give this place a 10+ for the food and service." - Stephanie D.

n/naka

Owner/Founder: Carole Iida-Nakayama ʼ00

Phone: 310-836-6252

Location: 3455 Overland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90034

Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars

Website: n-naka.com

Social: @nnakarestaurant

About:

The whole of a meal is as important as the sum of its parts. At n/naka, we are devoted to providing a unique and satisfying dining experience through our interpretation of kaiseki. This traditional Japanese culinary art form reflects the ever-changing rhythms of the earth by taking the freshest seasonal ingredients and presenting them in their most natural states. Using the very best ingredients we have access to is true kaiseki; we proudly serve vegetables from our organic garden built and maintained by our friends at Farmscape Gardens. We take great care in preparing a beautiful plate and believe that the more involvement we put into a meal – no shortcuts – the more connected we feel to the food and your experience of it. Through a meaningful balance of both traditional and modern techniques, Chef Niki Nakayama is committed to creating a meal that will engage your attention; it’s about enjoying the moment, the current offerings of the season, and ultimately, the food in front of you.

Review:

“I finally secured a spot to try n/naka! They've held two Michelin stars since 2019, and it was rated as one of the essential restaurants in L.A. It's totally worth the hype! The hospitality was professional and exceptional. Their attention to detail was amazing. Our main server Emily explained each dish thoroughly and shared a lot of her knowledge about sake, the local food scene and food in general with us. It made us feel so comfortable and at ease, which was a critical part of the kaiseki experience!” - Ya Y.

Echo

Owner/Founder: Matthias Gloppe Ext. Cert. ʼ07

Phone: +33-1-40-26-53-21

Location: 95 rue d'Aboukir, 75002 Paris, France

Yelp Rating: 5 stars

Website: echo-paris.com

Social: @echo.paris

About:

Silver Lake? Almost, but not quite. Echo is a “deli Californien” on Rue d’Aboukir, with food by Mailea Weger, an alumna of Gjusta and Gjelina in Los Angeles, and one of the latest signposts of the California dreaming that has seized Paris. They serve California-inspired burgers and wraps, plus desserts and breakfast, in a bright, casual space.

Review:

“Muah! Echo is my favorite café in Paris. I love the little hidden neighborhood it is tucked away into. It definitely has a Silver Lake vibe which reminded me greatly of home. The food is very delicate and the flavors are immaculate. The coffee was delicious and the staff was very informative and kind.” - Natalie L.

Hayato

Owner/Founder: Brandon Hayato Go ʼ00

Phone: 213-395-0607

Location: 1320 E 7th St., Suite 126, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars

Website: hayatorestaurant.com

Social: @hayatorestaurant

About:

Hayato is a place where we have the responsibility of showcasing the work of master craftspeople in many fields. Potters, fishmongers, carpenters, kimono makers, tea masters, sake brewers and countless other artisans are all part of the team to help us create a dining experience. Just as we have a duty to our guests, we also have a duty to those who devote their lives to the crafts that are the building blocks of a Japanese restaurant.

Review:

“I love love love love loooooovveee! My ultimate best *FAVE* in L.A.!!! I can't believe I never wrote a review other than the bento box. So unfortunately, he doesn't make those anymore but the dinner is amazeballs! Not only is the food incredible but the experience is awesome as well. Unlike a lot of other tasting menus, you will for sure leave stuffed. Every dish is beyond fresh and delicate. Definitely lives up to their Michelin 2 Star and I hope they'll get 3 soon.” - Helz M.

Toscana Brentwood

Co-Owner/Founder: Michael Gordon ʼ61

Phone: 310-820-2448

Location: 11633 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 100A, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: toscanabrentwood.com

Social: @toscanabrentwood

About:

Toscana is a neighborhood trattoria that celebrates the rustic, authentic, farm-to-table flavors of Northern Italy. For more than 30 years, we have stood tall on a corner in Brentwood and set the backdrop for special meals shared by generations of families, friends and neighbors, as well as elites from the worlds of entertainment, sports, fashion and our valued guests from around the globe. This is a place where every guest, whether famous or not, is treated like they’re a part of our family.

Review:

“Came here for dinner last Thursday night with my sister. We got reservations less than 24 hours before, luckily for 7:30 pm. They were definitely busy but we were seated on time. We shared a special salad that was arugula, peaches, goat cheese and endive. It was very good. My sister got a fish which I believe was a branzino, which she liked. I got the black truffle pizza, which was amazing!!! I hadn't been here in probably 10 years. I barely go to Brentwood for dinner, but I definitely would come back and I highly recommend coming for a date night or a night out!” - Joya E.

Verde

Owner/Founder: Maris Manzano Ext. Cert. ʼ03

Phone: 808-320-7088

Location: 4454 Nuhou St., Suite 501, Lihue, HI 96766

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: verdehawaii.com

Social: @verdehawaii

About:

Verde Restaurant continually strives to celebrate the essence of local food and a vibrant community valuing the support of local farmers and businesses. We opened our original location in Kapaa back in 2008 and eventually moved to Lihue in 2017. We aim to practice being green by using locally grown, sustainable ingredients, supporting local businesses and using eco-friendly takeout products. We are also proud to use local Kauai beef and antibiotic-free, hormone-free chicken and pork. Most recently, we have been using tortillas as our platform to showcase what we can grow locally and sustainably here in Hawaii, such as ulu breadfruit tortillas and sweet purple potato haupia tortillas.

Review:

“So Kauai apparently has excellent Mexican restaurants, and Verde has got to be in the top 5. Located in one of the more modern commercial developments on Kauai, it feels like a place you'd find in a mainland shopping center, but the food is anything but run-of-the-mill. The mahi-mahi furikake tacos were the best fish tacos I've had, from the furikake tortillas to the cilantro-furikake mahi-mahi with their signature aioli and unagi sauce. I wanted to try the ube horchata, but they said they ran out because it had been so hot that day. Will have to go back to try!” - Therese H.

Love and Salt

Co-Founder: Sylvie Gabriele ʼ92

Phone: 310-545-5252

Location: 317 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: loveandsaltla.com

Social: @loveandsaltla

About:

Love & Salt is a story that begins with Café Pierre, a restaurant birthed by Guy Gabriele in 1977 to bring a taste of France to Los Angeles’ South Bay. While Café Pierre was a beloved part of the community for nearly 37 years, in 2014, Guy and his daughter Sylvie Gabriele, now the owner of Love & Salt, closed the restaurant to bring new life to the iconic space. Love & Salt is a philosophy: that food needs only two ingredients to be great. It’s a sensibility that informs the feeling in the restaurant and the dishes on the menu — Italian-inspired with Southern California soul. An approachable wine list and classic cocktail program similarly reflect the vibrant SoCal setting of the restaurant, located just steps from the Manhattan Beach pier.

Review:

“We came to Love and Salt got the first time tonight and I can't say enough about how great it is. First off, serving staff was oh-so-nice and patient with my 1-year-old daughter who threw up and then dumped a plate of pasta on the floor. Not only were they friendly but so attentive and helpful to us parents. The food was all very good. My wife loved her halibut, the mussels I had were amazing and the pasta bolognese was very good. There was a problem with my mom's pasta not being warm enough but the staff made it right. Great restaurant.” - Brian P.

Angelini Osteria

Owner/Co-Founder: Elizabeth Angelini ʼ79

Phone: 323-297-0070

Location: 7313 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

Website: angelinibeverly.com

Social: @angeliniosteria

About:

Gino Angelini became the youngest chef in the region’s top hotels and restaurants where his fame continued to rise. During his tenure overseas, Gino co-founded Italy’s most popular gourmet magazine, served as president of the Association of Chefs Romagnoli and was appointed the Italian Vice Commissioner of the Euro-Toques International, an organization committed to safeguarding and promoting quality and authentic food within the European network. In October 2001, he opened Angelini Osteria, in the heart of Los Angeles. Since its opening, Angelini Osteria has become known as simply everyone’s favorite Italian restaurant in Los Angeles, winning over the city with unassuming and authentic dishes in a warm, intimate setting. Gino has grown his expanding culinary portfolio into the Angelini Restaurant Group alongside his wife and business partner Elizabeth Angelini.

Review:

“It was my first time visiting, and I thanked my friend who recommended this place for me! everything was delicious - I was enjoying them so much, forgot to take pictures – and the dessert, Affogato, was the best I've ever had. They make their own olive oil and it's the best. I got a bottle to take home. The servers were fast and kind, explained the menu very nicely; and the owner, who is actually serving the table with the rest of the crew, was very, very kind. Thank you!” - Evie J.

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To submit a Bruin-owned business for future consideration, please send a note to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

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UCLA Library Punk Archive

unk crashed into the Los Angeles music scene in the late 1970s. At legendary nightclubs like the Masque, Whisky a Go Go and Club 88, iconic bands with names like Black Flag, X and the Go-Gos performed for fans in torn T-shirts, spikes, safety pins and towering mohawks.

Los Angeles punk, with its chaotic sound, rebellious attitude and anti-capitalist message, fueled an aesthetic that embraced individuality and rejected societal norms — and, in turn, was often rejected by mainstream society. Soon, it inspired the creation of eclectic groups with influences from surf rock, Mexican folk music, garage bands and more.

The UCLA Library Punk Collective is a “DIY group of punks who are interested in collecting and preserving the music and culture of the Los Angeles County punk scenes.” Members of UCLA Library Special Collections (LSC) collaborate with their library colleagues, archivists, professors, students and community members to build a living document of punk music in Los Angeles, with special attention to preserving musicians and bands who fall outside the traditional narrative.

Kelly Besser ʼ94, M.S. ʼ11, library special collections archivist and punk collective member, says, “It’s life-affirming to bring the punk spirit into the library because it’s always been a place for outsiders. One thing about special collections is that it’s been seen and felt deeply as an elitist space where not everyone feels welcome. This is opening the doors to the punks, the people that have felt left out. We’re saying, ‘Your lives are important. So is your music, culture and community.’”

As a UCLA student, Besser found a place in punk. She says, “I was coming out as a feminist, diving into punk, coming out as queer, so it felt like a safe space to me. And I think that’s part of punk’s legacy in Los Angeles, that it’s been open to different genders and sexualities and there’s space for everybody.”

In the pre-digital 1970s and 80s, punk culture thrived through the tangible materials that captured its essence. The UCLA Library Punk Archive collects these artifacts — flyers, zines, photographs, sound recordings and buttons adorned with band logos. They even have the Al’s Bar Rolodex and old desk calendars with band names scribbled in the margins.

One added benefit of the collective is that many of the members are personally involved in the L.A. music scene, attending shows and meeting people. To find materials for the archive, the collective is taking time to build relationships with local musicians, promoters, artists, writers and fans.

Punk collective member, Josh Fiala ʼ05, calls himself “a long-time punk head,” who’s been “involved in the scene since grade school.” A bibliographic control coordinator for UCLA Library Special Collections, library work can be solitary but, he says, “Being in a group with like-minded people is a breath of fresh air.”

The Library’s punk archive was inspired by the Cornell University Library Hip Hop Collection. Megan Hahn Fraser, former co-head of collection management, knew that UCLA would be an ideal place to preserve this integral part of Los Angeles’ history and experience.

The archive centers around marginalized communities and places in an unconventional art form within the confines of a historically traditional framework. Part of a larger UCLA Library initiative called Collecting Los Angeles, they are preserving materials from underdocumented communities whose histories are important to Los Angeles. Besser says, “It’s important to see yourself in the archive, to have that reflection through the historical record.”

But, in punk, diverse perspectives are embraced. When Besser attended the Los Angeles Archives Bazaar, presented by L.A. as Subject and the USC Libraries, one guest objected, saying, “Punk doesn’t belong in the library, it’s for the streets. I’d rather burn my stuff than give it to you.” In an irreverent nod to punk's rebellious spirit, the collective had matchbooks printed with a riff on the title of the band The Exploited’s debut album, “Punk’s not dead. It’s archived.”

UCLA has always embraced emerging talent, and the punk music scene was no exception. Punk legends the Minutemen, the Circle Jerks, the Weirdos, Black Flag, Big Drill Car and the Ramones all rocked out on the UCLA stage. All-female band L7 took over Bruin Plaza for a noon show.

But UCLA students haven’t just been in the mosh pit. Alice Bag, whose band, the Bag, was one of the first L.A. punk bands, graduated from UCLA. John Talley-Jones ʼ79, Kjehl Johansen ʼ80, Steve Willard, Delia Frankel ʼ82 and Kevin Barrett formed the band the Urinals to perform a punk rock parody for their dorm talent show. Savage Republic’s percussive sound was created by Bruce Licher ʼ80 and Mark Erskine ʼ84. Bad Religion’s lead singer and songwriter Greg Graffin ʼ87, M.S. ʼ90, is a double Bruin with a master’s in geology. Vitus Matare ʼ79 and his bandmates fused garage, surf, folk and psychedelic rock in their power-punk band The Last.

Raymond Pettibon ʼ77 was studying economics when his brother, Greg Ginn ʼ05, started the band Black Flag. Pettibon began creating flyers, zines and album covers for his brother’s band. His hand-drawn flyers captured the energy and excitement of upcoming performances. Bob Biggs started Slash Records where he signed bands including the Germs, X and Fear. Theater arts student Penelope Spheeris ʼ69, M.A. ʼ73, produced the punk documentary “The Decline of Western Civilization.”

The first item added to the library’s punk archive was the Darby Romeo zine collection. Zines, short for "fanzines," are self-published magazines, often photocopied and cut-and-paste. Romeo and contributors interviewed punk and alternative musicians for the zine, Ben Is Dead.

In a major acquisition of community materials, the archive received the American Hotel and Al’s Bar project records. Al’s Bar was a creative complex in downtown L.A. — punk space, gallery, theater and hotel — that recirculated financial and creative support back to the community.

As a public research university, the UCLA Library materials are available for teaching and learning. The collective based their archival theory on the idea of self-description and community use. Fiala says, “We were built around the idea of collaborating with the community. First and foremost we’re here for the UCLA community, but we also want to include members outside of the community.” To fulfill this mission, they work with researchers, attend public events and foster dialogue with the community.

They collaborate frequently with the Los Angeles Public Library on interactive zine workshops. Fiala says, “We celebrate differences in the community, address political and social issues and expand out into other multicultural areas across Los Angeles.”

The LSC Punk Collective participates in conferences, sessions and events to highlight the academic importance of preserving punk culture and collaborates with professors and students in the Herb Alpert School of Music. They frequently work with Professor Jessica Schwartz, and participated in the 2018 conference, “Curating Resistance: Punk as Archival Method.” UCLA Library Special Collections and the LSC Punk Collective organized “Outcasts, Outreach, and Organizing in the Academy” in 2020 to highlight teaching opportunities from the punk community.

Punk’s unapologetic sound lives on, on the UCLA campus and across Los Angeles. The UCLA Punk Archive is a time machine, illuminating our history through the ephemeral artifacts that tell our stories for generations to come. Collecting and documenting punk rock, with its unique and eclectic mix of cultural influences and innovation, provides a window to a better understanding of the spirit and cultural richness of Los Angeles.

If you want to learn more about the Punk Archive or check out their collection, the materials are available to students, researchers and community members by appointment. If you’re a collector of punk materials and would like to learn more about donating it to the library visit their website.

PUNK BANDS PERFORMING AT UCLA

L7 at UCLA

The Ramones at UCLA

Big Drill Car at UCLA

The Weirdos

Circle Jerks

The Venture Accelerator at UCLA Anderson

t some point in our lives, we’ve all been convinced that we’ve had the idea for a product or service that will be the “next big thing.” For some, this inspiration may quickly materialize and flourish into a successful business. For others, more resources may be necessary to help make that lightbulb moment a reality. That’s where the Venture Accelerator at UCLA Anderson comes into play.

Since 2018, the Venture Accelerator, housed within UCLA Anderson’s Harold and Pauline Price Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, has served early-stage startup businesses by offering three programs per year. The most intensive effort is the six-month Accelerate program in the winter which consists of mentor pairings, one-on-one mentoring sessions, weekly workshops, networking events and proof-of-concept awards.

'22 LA Tech Week - Zubin Davar (BA '09, Riordan '13, MBA '15), Mike Vilardo (MBA '21), Sean Kim (Accelerator Mentor), Jesse Draper (BA '06), Trish Halamandaris (MBA '92) — *2022 L.A. Tech Week - Zubin Davar '09, Riordan '13, MBA '15, Mike Vilardo, MBA '21, Sean Kim (Accelerator Mentor), Jesse Draper '06, Trish Halamandaris, MBA '92*

“The intent [of the program] was to provide a physical place where founders work together and help each other solve similar problems that occur at the early stage of building a company,” said Trish Halamandaris, MBA '92, Venture Accelerator Director. “Ultimately, we are a program that helps UCLA students and alumni commercialize their intellectual property (I.P.) and learn how to validate their concept, go to market and scale efficiently once launched.”

In an age of remote and hybrid work, one unique offering of the Venture Accelerator is a physical space open 24/7 for participants and entrepreneurs to meet, connect and work on their respective businesses. With real estate in Los Angeles at a premium, the dedicated space of 10,000 square feet for startups has proved to be a major draw to its program.

“It’s not uncommon when companies are using our facility and preparing to launch their products, that they would work through the night. I would see them using the facility when I leave work in the evening, and they’re still there when I come to the office in the morning,” said Halamandaris. “Besides the medical labs, this might be one of the only spaces that's truly open 24/7 on our campus. It just makes sense for startups.”

This dedicated co-working space includes conference rooms, a kitchen, and shared office equipment and supplies. And crucially, it allows UCLA alumni to return and invest in future generations of Bruins.

“We work with UCLA alumni to be speakers, subject area experts and mentors to our companies. We love any role that alumni play, including starting their startup or side hustle,” Halamandaris explained.

Additionally, participating founders utilizing the Venture Accelerator have hired students for internship opportunities – another important layer to the beneficial partnership between alumni and students.

AVA Office — *10,000 square feet of dedicated space available for participants 24/7*

“It’s fun to watch alumni that have been out more than 10 years engaging with both early-stage founders and students,” said Halamandaris. “Sometimes alumni don't realize how much they've learned, and what they really know. When they have the chance to teach an early-stage founder their craft, it creates a win-win situation for the alumni and founder. Our founders are all early-stage, so they know they need the help and have a good five- to 10-year journey ahead of them.”

As for results, the success of the program speaks for itself.

According to Halamandaris, over the last five years, the Venture Accelerator has supported 237 companies with about $228 million raised in venture funding and $83 million in revenues. Additionally, there have been eight “exits,” which was when a founder of a business within the Venture Accelerator was able to sell their company. The eight exits include 81 Cents, Tutorfly, Quantvex, KPOP Foods, Textpert, VHomes, MusicProdigy and Lanikai Labs. Other featured alumni companies of the Venture Accelerator can be found on their website.

The Venture Accelerator also prides itself on serving underrepresented demographics within the private sector.

“It's important to provide opportunities for those who are capable but might not have access,” said Halamandaris. “In venture capital, about 2% or less of venture funds go to women, [the same is true for people of color]. Helping people from marginalized groups get a quick start and launch their ideas is incredibly rewarding. We are part of an ecosystem addressing the equality of funding deployment. We always wish we can do more.”

Of its 237 companies, 61% qualify as underrepresented founders. Notably, 127 current founders in the Venture Accelerator are female. Considering these statistics, the Venture Accelerator is clearly having a positive impact on all Bruins.

“Overall, the program is working and companies are doing well. We're running at an 85% success rate, meaning companies are still operational after exiting our program,” said Halamandaris. “As for the future, we would love to support more founders, more companies and more alumni from all parts of campus. We want to provide the business skills necessary to be a successful founder and executive…that's UCLA Anderson’s forte. Like many of the startups, we too are fundraising for our programs to support the growing demand of founders who would like to be part of the Accelerator.” Supporters can donate on the Accelerator website.

And while starting up a business is indeed intimidating and will require years of hard work, joining the Venture Accelerator at UCLA Anderson is easier than one may think. Despite the name, one does not need to be a student or graduate of UCLA Anderson School of Management to join.

“We welcome all Bruins,” reports Halamandaris. “It could be graduate students, it could be UCLA alumni, UCLA faculty and staff…it could be anyone! Even if it’s UCLA alumni who want to get involved and see what they can do, we’ll welcome them.”

And the best part? The cost to join the Venture Accelerator is minimal to none. For current UCLA students that are paying tuition and employed UCLA faculty and staff, there is no cost to join the program. For UCLA alumni and community founders, there is a fee to join and get access to the many offerings of the Venture Accelerator at UCLA Anderson.

Showcase '19, Google Venice, Theo Lee (MBA '17) and Mike Kim (MBA '17), KPopFoods (acquired) — *Showcase 2019, Google Venice, Theo Lee, MBA '17, and Mike Kim, MBA '17, KPop Foods (acquired)*

“Since we're a public university, part of our mission is to give back to the community,” said Halamandaris. “Because of our brand name, most people think we only support Anderson. We want to better integrate with the UCLA campus and community. Our goal is to help Bruins form their companies and commercialize their I.P. so that they can potentially exit.”

Looking ahead, the team at the Venture Accelerator is already in the process of approving applicants for future cohorts that will run throughout the course of the calendar year. However, for those that are interested in turning their million-dollar idea into a reality, check their website for the open application windows, typically in April and September.

“The extensive resources available to founders is part of Anderson's long history in teaching entrepreneurship and mission in giving back to the entire campus community,” said Halamandaris. “We are interested, supportive and help people with their businesses. We want to be a place where people can go to receive support and become transformative leaders. We want to give people the opportunity to explore and discover what their company can be. We want people to know that UCLA has a thriving entrepreneurship community that is making an impact in the startup world.”

***

For more information on the Venture Accelerator at UCLA Anderson, and to apply for future cohorts, please visit their website.

If you are a Bruin entrepreneur, be sure to nominate yourself or other founders for the Bruin Business 100, an annual recognition by the UCLA Alumni Association of successful alumni-owned businesses. Nominations will be accepted starting this fall.

When I Was at UCLA - June 2023

W
e asked Bruins to share a UCLA experience and the responses were filled with humor, pride, awe, gratitude and nostalgia. The stories are being compiled so they can be shared and viewed by this alumni community. Here are a few of our favorites from May 2023.

When I was at UCLA I clearly remember the filming of John Singleton's "Higher Learning" on campus. Since this was the early '90s, UCLA was still a major tourist destination for many people from around the globe. At least five times while strolling down Bruin Walk, I was stopped by random strangers either asking for my autograph or inquiring my opinion about filming on the UCLA campus. Nevermind the fact that I was carrying my book satchel or talking to some friends.

- Sean Anglon ʼ96

When I was at UCLA, Royce Hall was closed after the Northridge quake, I watched our men's basketball team arrive at LAX with the National Championship trophy and we beat ‘SC in football the entire time I was a student.

- Michelle Fisher May ʼ95

When I was at UCLA, there were two memorable earthquakes (Whittier and Northridge), one citywide riot followed by a weeklong curfew, heat wave and power outages before finals week, a measles outbreak before the UCLA-USC football game, a loss to Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl, and Mardi Gras was still a thing. Those were some of the best years of my life though.

- Alan Chan ʼ89, M.D. ʼ94

When I was at UCLA, there was no Internet, there was "arena registration" for classes that was a huge scrum; there were interest groups of every stripe competing for attention on Bruin Walk; there were no "brand name" dining options; movie showings at Melnitz could become heated back-and-forth conversations with the director present; the music library was a cool refuge; film premieres in Westwood were common; and the gingko trees in Dickson Plaza had a distinct signature scent at certain times of the year. And the cafe on the first floor of Kerckhoff made you feel [like] you were in a different place altogether.

- Andrew Lueder ʼ91

Winter quarter freshman year January 1986. Walking to south campus, it was eerily empty on campus mid-morning. I remember passing the snack machines near Boelter Hall when I heard the broadcast from a transistor radio of a janitorial staff [member] announcing the space shuttle explosion shortly after takeoff. Frozen in my tracks, breathless, silent, my heart broke to pieces. Arrived late to class, in tears and completely distracted.

- Maria Dungo ʼ90

When I was at UCLA, I learned to think critically and question everything. Professors like the late Dr. Malcom Kerr challenged me to rethink and see the Middle East in an entirely different way. His insights have proven to stand the test of time.

- David Tenenbaum ʼ75, J.D. ʼ82

When I was at UCLA, disco and 8 tracks were in. The football team never beat ‘SC, but the men's basketball team always won the Pac-8. We registered for classes at Murphy and got our list of classes in the mail…Good times!

- Ellen Bohm Weber ʼ78

When I was at UCLA they had a Playgirl centerfold as a chemistry TA.

- Libby Anne Russler ʼ76

When I was at UCLA, I recall being in Dykstra Hall, on the upper floors, which were female only, visiting a lady friend. While “socializing” we were shocked to reality by the fire alarm. My first response was “ oh Shiite!” My moment of panic at possibly being caught in violation of rules. But happily the next thing I heard was several male voices exclaiming “#&$%” multiple spicy profanities as they too were caught with their pants down. I survived! Got caught and reported, but I survived to tell numerous variations of that story. Not sure which one is closer to the truth. Ah, youth!

- Henderson Cooper ʼ73

After graduation I turned my half-time job into a full-time job. Working on campus was great! In addition to the atmosphere, so unlike a corporate atmosphere, I could enjoy my lunch at the botanical gardens, at north campus (I worked in the engineering building) or attend talks by acclaimed speakers. On one occasion I went to hear a talk by an author I knew a little about. He was a Black writer who had once been sent by Playboy Magazine to interview the head of the KKK -- and Playboy hadn't told the racist organization who was going to do the interview! This fellow spoke in a large auditorium during lunchtime, and the room was full. He talked about his background, noting that his grandparents had been slaves in the Antebellum South, and how difficult that was for them. He related stories passed down by them, and said he realized this information would be lost unless he documented it. He told a fascinating tale of how he researched his family tree, including flying to Africa to deepen his research. And this is how I heard the captivating story of the as-yet not published "Roots," described by Alex Haley himself, one fine day at UCLA.

- Stan Lieberson ʼ69

It was the summer of 1968 when I started graduate school at UCLA at what was then the School of Library Services located in the College Library, now Powell Library. Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy had just been assassinated. While working at my summer job at the Reserve Book Room, we watched the war zone that was the 1968 Chicago Democratic Convention. Kareem Abdul Jabbar, then known as Lew Alcindor, one of the stars of John Wooden’s legendary Bruin basketball team, often appeared at the small window to pick up reserve materials for his classes. He had to bend over double for me to see his face. I was a commuter student. As I walked from the parking lot along Bruin Walk to the library, very loud members of the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) shouted their disapproval of the Vietnam War and exhibited significant hostility toward anyone they identified as military or a veteran. It was a daily gauntlet that was very upsetting as I had several friends and family in the military, including some fighting in Vietnam. In the spring of 1970, a few months before receiving my M.L.S., recruiters from the Army Library program visited the library school. They were not in the military. They were civilian civil service employees of Army Special Services, the Army’s morale and recreation agency. After almost a year of witnessing the hostile behavior of anti-war protestors toward soldiers, I saw a way to put my training as a librarian to work to support these soldiers. I went to work for Army Libraries as an administrative librarian managing recreational libraries for the soldiers in base camps in Vietnam. That year changed my life and my world view forever. It made me a better librarian and a better person. What I learned at UCLA about libraries, librarianship and life skills helped me succeed in job responsibilities that just graduated librarians normally don’t encounter for years. In very real ways, UCLA helped to shape the rest of my life as a librarian and a person. I won’t ever forget that.

- Ann Kelsey, M.L.S. ʼ69

When I was at UCLA, I heard future president John Kennedy speak, saw the new student union open, and took a bowling class in it. Rafer Johnson was my hero. Besides winning the gold medal in the 1960 Olympics, he rescued me at the Coliseum when UCLA beat USC. A USC band member was driving his car into UCLA students rallying in the tunnel. Rafer lifted me up and moved me away from the fender of the car that trapped me against the wall.

- Chelle Brown ʼ62

When I was at UCLA, many of us were commuters. Three of us commuted from Montebello, where we all lived and had attended different high schools. Timing was crucial for getting a parking place, and I frequently parked off campus after dropping off my two ride-sharers. In those early 1950s I could drive right up to the flag pool near Haines Hall and drop off two people who had 8 a.m. classes, then cruise around for a parking spot and get to my 9 a.m. class. One of my passengers dropped out after one semester, but the other stayed with me, shared the ride and we married before the start of our last semester in 1957. We shared 60 years of marriage until her death in 2017. So, I love UCLA because just getting there every day led to the best thing in my life.

- Robert Ewing ʼ57

When I was at UCLA from 1952 to 1956 not all parking lots were paved. One morning I parked at an unpaved parking lot in the northeast part of the campus that had a bit of a slope. It rained while I was attending classes. When I returned to my car late that afternoon it was about 30 yards from where I had parked it, having slid down the slippery surface of the lot. Fortunately, it didn't contact any other vehicles on the way down as the lot was mostly empty by then.

- Bob Schneider ʼ56

If you have a story to share, finish the sentence “When I was at UCLA…” and submit it to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

When I Was at UCLA Articles

Lessons I Learned at UCLA, by Barbra Lyons, Class of 2023

our years ago, I stepped foot onto the UCLA campus for the very first time as a student. I had little to no idea of what to expect of what was to come during my time here. As I wandered the hills of campus aimlessly looking for my freshman chemistry discussion, I remembered years ago driving through the streets of Westwood with my mom seeing college students with their backpacks and thinking how cool it was that all of these individuals were UCLA students. To be quite honest, I had no intention of attending UCLA and even after applying thought that the odds of me actually getting in were slim to none. But on that fateful day four years ago, when I opened my acceptance letter, everything changed. Now as a senior looking back, just a mere days away from graduation, I can see just how much this school has taught me not only about myself, but about the world in which we live. I am so grateful to have attended this school as it has brought me so many wonderful friends, memories and experiences that I will cherish forever.

Make Every Moment Count

As someone whose freshman through junior years of college were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, making the most of the time that we had while not locked in our homes was of the utmost importance. This not only translates to school, but also with friends, family, peers and even professors. Taking advantage of the opportunity to just be with people physically taught me the importance of living in the moment and maximizing each window of opportunity to its fullest potential.

No One Knows What the Future Holds and That Is Okay

If you were to tell me this four years ago, I would have laughed and thought you were joking. We go to UCLA; everyone must have it figured out, right? Not exactly. However, after much further observation and understanding, I have learned that more often than not, people are just taking things day by day and tackling the hurdles as they come along. This slightly terrifying yet just as equally refreshing lesson has helped me through some of the highs and lows that college brings. At the end of the day, everyone is on the same train trying to figure things out and not knowing what comes next is absolutely okay. While the unknown can be scary, it also can be a blank canvas and we are given the creativity to make it what we want for ourselves.

The Importance of Discovering Yourself

While four years is not a large amount of time, it is amazing how much change you can experience and how much you can learn about yourself when you are pushed to limits that are beyond the scope of your imagination. No matter what instances or individuals you encounter while in college, it is of the utmost importance to be true to yourself and take pride in the things that make you, you.

UCLA has by far been the most impactful and rewarding experience of my life thus far and I would not be the person that I am today without each and every interaction and experience that I have had as a student. I will miss the large and exciting moments just as much as I will miss the small and quiet moments with this campus, the people and, most importantly, myself.

Barbra Lyons is graduating from UCLA with a B.S. in psychobiology. She will be pursuing a career as a physician's assistant and would one day love to work in pediatrics and move to the East Coast. Originally from Los Angeles, Lyons was involved with many student organizations, such as Camp Kesem, the Pediatric AIDS Coalition, the Hellenic Student Association, Care Extenders and many more. She has worked as the marketing assistant in the UCLA Alumni Association since 2021.

Lessons I Learned at UCLA Series:

Diversity Digest Spotlight - Re-Emergence: Learning and Leading with AAPAN President Kiet Lam

Denise Pacheco, M.A. ’04, Ph.D. ’11, Senior Director for UCLA Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives connected with 2023 Volunteer of the Year and UCLA Academic Advancement Program Alumni Network (AAPAN) president, Kiet Lam ’98, M.P.H. ’00, to learn more about his experience at UCLA, his connection to the UCLA Academic Advancement Program (AAP) and the launch of its official alumni network.

iet Lam is the founder and CEO of Climb Healthcare Consulting in the San Francisco Bay Area where he prioritizes client service while helping improve the financial health of hospitals and health systems. Named the 2023 Volunteer of the Year by UCLA Alumni, Lam serves as the inaugural president of the UCLA Academic Advancement Program Alumni Network (AAPAN). Founded in 2021, AAPAN seeks to establish an association that furthers philanthropy for experienced Academic Advancement Program (AAP) alumni, offers professional development opportunities for recent AAP graduates and expands upon the academic and leadership excellence that is the hallmark of the AAP program to continue to support first-generation professionals.

When Lam arrived at UCLA as a first-generation college student he had already overcome many obstacles. He was five years old when he traversed the South China Sea for four days on a fishing boat with his mother and two older brothers, escaping Vietnam for a refugee camp in Malaysia. He and his family were able to seek amnesty in the United States through sponsorship with his aunt. His refugee background and subsequent upbringing in San Diego and other parts of Southern California led him to UCLA as a first-generation college student where he was first acquainted with the University through the UCLA Academic Advancement Program and its Freshman Summer Program.

Lam credits the AAP with his success at UCLA and beyond: “AAP is a lifeline to those like me, who just don’t have the knowledge, experience or resources to adapt to and then navigate college.” It is that same lifeline that Lam aims to offer alumni of the AAP program through the work of AAPAN. Leveraging the determination, success, passion and experience of UCLA Academic Advancement Program graduates, he hopes that alumni like himself can impact the lives of recent graduates through networking and mentorship. “I am a living example of the power of opportunity and access and what it can result in. There are many examples like myself when you look at the many years of AAP alumni,” Lam said.

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lam found many opportunities to reflect on the privileges that he currently holds. “Access to food, health care, and higher education are among things that we take for granted daily. I found myself asking, ‘What can we do more to help our community.’” Launching the AAP Alumni Network in 2021 at the height of the pandemic was one way that Lam sought to support his community. For Lam AAP was the first extension of his personal network that helped him navigate the University and set a foundation for success. He believed that an established alumni network could help “pandemic graduates” entering the workforce by offering networking and mentorship opportunities with other AAP graduates.

The pandemic’s shift to remote, and sometimes hybrid, activity and work brought many challenges and opportunities as well. “As leaders we need to get creative and provide opportunities to re-engage in a hybrid setting,” he said. “I have learned to be more patient with initiatives, and rolling them out so we can take these things into consideration.” Since its launch, the network has hosted both in-person and fully remote programs to reach AAP alumni wherever they are.

Lam has a lot of optimism for the future of the AAP Alumni Network and aims to continue to learn and grow as the network develops. Through his work with the founding board members and UCLA Alumni Affairs staff, AAPAN was successfully launched at the Academic Advancement Program’s 50th Anniversary Gala in December of 2021.

“There are people like myself who are now making efforts to be cognizant of their privilege and resources and want to make a positive impact. Some need guidance on how they can help, or nudges in the right direction. Through AAPAN, I hope to find these people and organize them to collectively make a bigger impact.”

You can learn more about the Academic Advancement Program Alumni Network and how you can get involved by visiting our website.

Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Inside The Den

nder the bright lights and hanging championship banners of Pauley Pavilion, you can hear the roar and cheers of students booming throughout the building. Coordinated jeers are chanted during visiting-player introductions and tiny pieces of blue and gold paper fly through the air just as the first Bruin basket of the game is made. This is The Den, also known as the most spirited student section on Earth. These die hard UCLA Athletics fans will give 100% of their energy at all UCLA sporting events to cheer on our student athletes. Being part of The Den is one of the most exciting and memorable experiences of being a student. They help create an electric atmosphere inside our stadiums that energizes our players, intimidates opponents and may be partially responsible for the UCLA Men’s Basketball team’s undefeated home record.

To belong to The Den, current students must first purchase a Den Pass, offered by UCLA Athletics. For the 2022-2023 school year, passes can be purchased for $185, which includes access to all home football and men's basketball games (all other UCLA sports offer free admission for students). Additionally, first-year students are able to purchase a 4's Up Den Pass which gives them access to all football and men's basketball games for all four years at a discounted rate. The pass also includes a Den T-shirt, exclusive ticketing priority to Bowl Games, post-season men’s basketball and the UCLA-USC football game, and of course, the best seats in the house — the UCLA student section. Den Pass holders also have a private entrance at Pauley Pavilion, which sometimes means lining up early to beat the crowds for guaranteed entry at marquee games.

Then the fun begins! The student experience at UCLA sporting events is incredible. These games bring along a set of traditions where students come together to show off their Bruin pride. Different sports offer different Den traditions but are all rooted in the same spirit of fun and support for our Bruin teams.

At home gymnastics meets, students are given a paper that details the routines and information about the meet. UCLA ends with the floor exercise, which gives the gymnasts the chance to interact with the student section during their routines. The paper given out includes instructions on how to copy or interact with the dancers during their routines. No worries if you have two left feet though. These dance moves consist of things such as dabbing or even doing the wave. After the last tumbling pass, the paper is torn up and tossed in the air.

Another gymnastics tradition that has held up over the years is when a gymnast performs a superb routine on any apparatus, fans scream out, “10! 10! 10!” while motioning a ten with their hands towards the judges.

With UCLA’s history as a basketball powerhouse, the games in Pauley Pavilion give students the opportunity to participate in many different traditions before, during and after the game. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular Den traditions.

Roll Call

During pregame warmups, Den members chant the names of players repeatedly until they get the player’s acknowledgement.

Opponent Intros

As each starter on the opposing team is introduced, The Den yells out a jeer, “So What?” “Who Cares?” “Big Deal!” “Who’s He?” “Go Home!”

The Dirt and Confetti Toss

The Dirt is a flyer that is placed on every seat before games that has basic information about both teams playing. It also includes embarrassing trash about the other team’s players or school. When the first basket of the game is made by a member of the UCLA team, students rip up the paper into tiny little pieces and throw it in the air like confetti.

Free Throw Ritual

When a UCLA player is about to shoot a free throw, members hold up a finger and stay quiet. Upon making it, they yell, “Whoosh” followed by two claps. Repeat after making the second free throw and follow it with a “Yes!” and a double fist-pump. If the free throw is the result of a continuation basket, they chant, “Three point play” along with the announcer followed by a “Whoop.” If they complete the and-1 free throw, they yell “Whoosh” followed by three claps and a “Yes!”

Opposing Team Free Throws

On a similar note, during the second half of the game, students are provided with long balloons to wave around in the air when the opposing team is shooting free throws. The forms of distraction vary from funny signs to unique costumes to crazy dances.

Opponent Airballs

When an opponent airballs a shot, they immediately chant, “Airball! Airball! Airball!” which continues every time the same player touches the ball until they score their next point.

Opponent Fouls Out

When an opponent commits their fifth foul, they chant out the player’s steps to the bench with, “Left, Right, Left, Right, Staaaaanding, Sit down!” and concludes with “So long, chief!”

Alma Mater and Rover

After every game, win or lose, the UCLA Marching Band plays our Alma Mater, “Hail to the Hills of Westwood.” Most fans will hold up two fingers in a V for victory, or keep them together after a loss. Either way, The Den puts their arms around each other’s shoulders and sways while singing. If the Bruins win, this is then followed by the song “Rover,” which is a parody of the song, “I’m Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover.” This is the pinnacle moment when everyone dances and sings along exuberantly.

These traditions are a part of what makes our time and experience at UCLA so memorable. The Den has been able to keep this going for years, decades, passing on the rituals from one generation to the next, and enjoyed by returning alumni long after they’ve graduated. The next time you come to a UCLA Athletics event, cheer along with these Den traditions and feel your Bruin spirit come alive.

UCLA Chancellor’s Society

xamine any coin in the U.S. currency and you’ll find the words: E pluribus unum, which is Latin for "Out of many, one." The national motto not only describes our federal form of government, it’s also the concept behind UCLA Chancellor’s Society.

As the smallest campus in the UC system with the largest population density, UCLA has hundreds of departments, centers, institutes, programs, networks, clubs and associations, all seeking to advance their respective missions, foster engagement and secure resources. And yet, out of many, there is one unifying force, one brand name that attracts the masses to want to be a part of it…UCLA.

"ANY GIFT made to ANY PART of the UNIVERSITY, totaling a minimum of $1,000 within one fiscal year, constitutes automatic membership to the Chancellor’s Society."

Founded in 1966 through the vision of then-Chancellor Franklin Murphy, UCLA Chancellor’s Society is an exclusive membership for UCLA’s leadership annual giving program. Broken up into four giving levels:

Chancellor’s Circle $1,000 – $2,499

Chancellor’s Associates $2,500 – $4,999

Chancellor’s Council $5,000 – $9,999

Chancellor’s Cabinet $10,000 plus

ANY GIFT made to ANY PART of the UNIVERSITY, totaling a minimum of $1,000 within one fiscal year, constitutes automatic membership to the Chancellor’s Society. Members receive invitations to special lectures, donor-appreciation events and receptions hosted by Chancellor Block. These invite-only events vary by giving level as do the opportunities to get further involved.

According to Lucy Tseng ʼ12, director of UCLA Chancellor’s Society, “A long time ago, Chancellor’s Society was a group of people who gave to a specific fund to support the Chancellor's initiatives, specific things that the Chancellor wanted to do, through the Chancellor’s Greatest Needs fund. In 2016, that changed and Chancellor’s Society is now a campuswide program where people can give anywhere across campus, and their cumulative giving is what qualifies them as a member of Chancellor’s Society.”

With more than 2,000 different funds that donors can support, Tseng says that the role that Chancellor’s Society plays is both to encourage giving to support individual parts of campus, but also to educate about the entire campus as a whole. She says, “Most of us go to the University for two or four years, maybe more, but we really only get to know the areas of study that we are focused in, or the organizations that we’re a part of. The fact is, the University is very well rounded and well versed in all things. We have world-renowned musicians, scientists, artists and world-class athletes that we try to highlight so our members can learn more about our campus.”

Chancellor’s Society events vary from professor lectures on their latest research, to exceptional performances to exclusive donor receptions. One recent presentation, featuring Nobel laureate Dr. Andrea Ghez discussing new developments from her study of supermassive black holes, was attended by many non-science majors.

Education is the goal, after all. Tseng explained that if members are exposed to different parts of UCLA outside of the areas they supported, it may spark a new passion where they will support those new areas as well or advocate towards their mission or get involved.

But what if a donor isn’t sure what fund they should support? In most cases, they are encouraged to give to the Chancellor’s Greatest Needs fund. Tseng says, “That is the most discretionary fund. For example, when the campus was flooded in 2014 and we needed to renovate Pauley right away, we used that money and then got reimbursed from insurance later. Or when the pandemic hit and we needed to provide more electronics for our students to have education accessible remotely, we were able to have the funds to purchase laptops and hotspots good enough to get our students back on track.”

The reasons for a donor’s philanthropic support are mixed. Some may commemorate a loved one with a memorial scholarship for future Bruins. Some may donate in gratitude for a positive experience, be it an athletic achievement or a lifesaving transplant. Or some may feel so passionately about a cause, whether it’s climate change or cancer research, they give for pure altruistic motives. Because they believe that UCLA is an agent of change, and with the right amount of support, the talented scientists, artists, athletes, engineers, doctors, etc. can make a significant impact in curing society’s ills.

"Chancellor’s Society is one of those conduits to help gather people based on their connection to UCLA."

This passion is in play for many of Chancellor’s Society’s active volunteers. As ambassadors, their role is to steward the members into renewing their annual gift and to convince new prospects to upgrade to the next level. If it sounds like basic fundraising, that’s because it is. As Patrick Petersilia ʼ71, chair of UCLA Chancellor’s Society, explains, “We're trying to kind of reorganize ourselves to be more decentralized, to collaborate more effectively with sister organizations and to weave ourselves more into the fabric of today's fundraising.”

Volunteers meet regularly to discuss recruitment strategies. To be eligible as a volunteer, a member must be at least at the Chancellor’s Associate level ($2,500 or higher). Volunteering epitomizes the sense of belonging that Chancellor’s Society members wear as a badge of honor. Tseng says, “Joining offers camaraderie with other donors who love UCLA. When you become alumni, you aren’t going to the same classes with people anymore or going to the same dining hall. You may not go to the same events with those people anymore, but Chancellor’s Society is something that we're hoping to keep as a consistent opportunity for alumni to stay engaged with our campus, where they get to meet each other, get to know each other and become lifelong friends.”

She continues, “The exposure of getting to know others is really the value of being a public institution. We get to meet people of all backgrounds, of all interests, with different experiences in life. Chancellor’s Society is one of those conduits to help gather people based on their connection to UCLA.”

Petersilia echoes the same sentiment. He made his first gift to UCLA in 1986 and eventually made enough money to give at the Chancellor’s Society level. In 2001, he became a volunteer and rose to become chair of the whole Society in 2022. He explains his multi-decade involvement this way: “UCLA gave me a degree from a world class university. It taught me I could succeed in that setting and gave me a confidence to carry through life. I've had a fairly successful professional career and I've managed to accumulate some wealth that I can now give back to today's students in the hopes that they're able to leverage their education the way I was. Many of my closest friends in life are Bruins. My financial advisor is my college roommate. I’ve been going to the Rose Bowl for 50 years with three to four people I graduated with. We now have grandkids sitting on their parents’ laps.”

The vast majority of the 5,000 Chancellor’s Society members are alumni or parents of alumni or current Bruins. They are alumni network volunteers, alumni donors, alumni leaders. Tseng says the similarity is because they’ve already invested in a UCLA education and believe in the Bruin Promise. This is a commitment that provides alumni access to UCLA’s breadth of resources and opportunities, through an online portal, for every stage of their life. In a digital format, the Bruin Promise has the same goals as Chancellor’s Society, educating people as to what UCLA has to offer in various areas of campus.

"I think UCLA changed my life. And I want to help sustain it as an institution that can do for students today what it did for me."

As a result, Chancellor’s Society has partnered with the UCLA Alumni Association for various co-programming and co-recognition endeavors. Whether it’s Petersilia speaking at the Alumni Leadership Conference last March or Alumni Travel Director Christel Aragon presenting at a Chancellor’s Society event last April, the two organizations will see a greater collaboration and cross-promotion in the immediate and distant future.

Chancellor’s Society holds the umbrella philosophy that once you give a minimum gift of $1,000 to any part of UCLA, it has you covered. It gives you a unique Bruin identity among like-minded peers. It invites you to deepen your relationship with UCLA through learning and experiencing various facets of campus. And it fills you with pride, as both a graduate and supporter, knowing you played a part in something greater than yourself.

Petersilia knows this better than anyone. “I think UCLA changed my life. And I want to help sustain it as an institution that can do for students today what it did for me.”

***

To learn more about Chancellor’s Society and how to give to UCLA, visit https://chancellorssociety.ucla.edu.

Bruin-Owned Businesses: Fitness and Wellness 2

ow, more than ever, we've discovered the importance of self-care and prioritizing our mental and physical health. The sequel to this Bruin-owned business series features several organizations that offer fitness and wellness-related products and services, geared to inspire a healthier, happier you.

West Los Angeles Karate

CEO/Founder: George Takahashi ʼ59, M.A. ʼ61

Phone: 310-463-5119

Location: 1466 S. Westgate Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025

Email: help@wlakarate.org

Website: https://wlakarate.org

Social: @westlosangeleskarate

About:

West Los Angeles Karate School has been a unique community resource for nearly 40 years. In fact, this martial arts school was one of the first in this part of Los Angeles. We provide instruction in traditional Japanese style Shotokan Karate. Each of our instructors has trained in this style for over 20 years. Instructors teach on a volunteer basis and all dues go to pay for our facility rental. Our program is geared toward teenagers and adults. Beginning students are given individual attention for the first few classes to familiarize them with some of the basics prior to joining a class. We train in a large, well-lit and ventilated room with a clean wood floor and a high ceiling. Visitors are always welcome.

Review:

“This school is a hidden gem. Because it’s now part of the Westside YMCA, the monthly tuition is far less than any other dojo around and includes all other classes and services the Y offers (gym, pool, etc). The four regular instructors are patient, master practitioners. They’re also volunteers meaning they’re teaching because they love the art, not to turn a profit. In addition to them, the class includes another eight to 12 black belts who generously offer pointers, suggestions and encouragement to junior students. If the class doesn’t show up in the Y’s schedule, don’t let that dissuade you (it wouldn’t be a hidden gem if it was easy to find). Just show up at the scheduled class time. You’ll feel welcomed and it won’t take long before you feel part of the community.” - Jonathan P.

Luxe Beauty and Wellness Boutique

CEO/Founder: Kiiyonna Jones, M.S.N. ʼ08

Phone: 562-804-0000

Location: 10242 Rosecrans Ave., Bellflower, CA 90706

Email: luxebeautystaff@gmail.com

Website: https://www.luxebeautyandwellness.com

Social: @luxebeautyandwellness

About:

Luxe Beauty and Wellness Boutique is a premier aesthetic and wellness boutique in Bellflower, California. We specialize in permanent make-up, aesthetic injectables and other wellness services. In a serene environment, Luxe Beauty and Wellness also offers IV infusions including vitamins, minerals and other nutrients tailored to your individual needs. Our goal is to focus on encouraging our clients to feel beautiful inside and out. It is our priority to support you on your journey of looking and feeling your best.

Review:

“This place is amazing! A friendly professional staff of young women who are kind and welcoming. It's clean, modern and decorated beautifully creating a luxurious comfortable environment. I get the chocolate Brazilian wax, it leaves your skin feeling soft and smelling sweet with no irritation afterward. I recommend this boutique for all of your aesthetic needs.” - Tywonia H.

LiveMetta

CEO/Founder: Ythy Farnsworth ʼ10

Phone: 562-598-8585

Locations: California Studios in Long Beach, Laguna Niguel (2), Newport Beach, Tustin, Orange

Email: longbeach@livemetta.com

Website: https://livemetta.com

Social: @livemettapilates

About:

At LiveMetta we think “wellness” is as simple as being grounded in the present moment. Everything that you do from a wellness perspective should have the intention of helping you spend as much time there as possible. To do so, you must take care of your body and mind but also foster a sense of connectedness to the world around you. While yoga and Pilates are incredibly useful practices, there is a lot more to the picture. A loving-kindness mindset is a beautiful place to start. We want to help you be the strongest version of yourself so that when the stressors of life are at their highest, you’re still able to tap into that sense of equanimity and weather the storm. That is wellness to us.

Review:

“Simply the best Pilates studio ever. The trainers are committed to your fitness, health and safety. My favorites are Susan and Gabby. They both ensure that my time is invested. My body is now pain-free and developing. My balance is improving. Private sessions with Susan are simply the best!” - Gregory D.

Art Therapy With Sharon

CEO/Founder: Sharon B. Uy ʼ06

Phone: 818-860-1569

Location: 14724 Ventura Blvd., Suite 1000, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

Email: arttherapywithsharon@gmail.com

Website: https://www.sharonuy.com

Social: @aparigraha_art

About:

Sharon B. Uy offers psychotherapy sessions rooted in creativity, mindfulness, body awareness and spirituality. Uy is a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in art therapy and sensorimotor psychotherapy, with a private practice in Sherman Oaks. Using the client’s innate capacity for creative expression and spiritual insight, she specializes in guiding her clients toward personal freedom from self-limiting patterns.

Review:

“Utilizing art therapy, holistic movement and authentic interactions, Sharon makes it easy for clients to tackle difficult subjects. She brings her extensive knowledge of the mind-body connection to the work, without it ever feeling flighty and ‘out there.’ Her humor and humanity always shine through." - Jenni W.

O Positiv

Co-Founder: Brianna Bitton ʼ14

Location: 11740 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 109-333, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Email: hello@opositiv.com

Website: https://opositiv.com

Social: @opositivwellness

About:

Women’s health vitamins with results. At O Positiv, we noticed the gap in the women’s health industry, so we set out to create custom, innovative formulas to address what women really need. Our vitamins are created with science-backed ingredients that keep you feeling your best.

Review:

“These work better than any that I've tried (and I've tried many). Easy, smooth flow on a regular basis. I'm on my second jar. I thought something was wrong because I lost about 10 lbs. within the last month. I just wasn't thinking about food. All of a sudden my appetite improved and I remembered that I forgot my gummies for about four days. Wow! That's when I realized that definitely helped me lessen my appetite! Give them a try ... be patient!” - Dawn L.

Sonki Fitness

CEO/Founder: Sonki Hong, Cert. ʼ04

Phone: 310-260 2518

Location: 1112 Montana Ave. Suite 810, Santa Monica, CA 90403

Email: info@sonkifitness.com

Website: https://www.sonkifitness.com

Social: @sonki.fitness

About:

Sonki Fitness is one of the most successful and longest-running boot camps in the world, created by a five-time World Fitness Champion and former U.S. Army Captain Sonki Hong. What makes it unique and special is that the program uses a positive and fun approach to inspire clients to get in top shape in beautiful outdoor settings. Sonki created the program based on his experience working with people from all walks of life, so it really is designed for ALL ages and levels. Regardless of what kind of shape you're in, you get to push at your own pace within your limitations, so you learn to push your own boundaries without feeling judged or pressured to keep up with others. The workouts vary, so you never get bored doing the same thing over and over. And the environment is very friendly, positive and supportive with everyone encouraging one another. Many people have called it a "life-changing experience" and "the best workout they've ever done." When you're in his program, you feel like you have a personal coach who genuinely cares about your health and well-being. Over 5,000 clients have successfully graduated from the program since 2002. Currently, our classes are in Santa Monica and Playa Vista.

Review:

“Sonki creates a motivating and safe working environment! His workout pushes you no matter where you are in your fitness journey. He and the Sonki Fitness trainers challenge and support all of his clients and offer alternatives to workouts to best fit where you are physically. It is a great workout class and is 100% outdoors!” - Ashley Jay S.

Chair Yoga Online

Co-Founder: Howie Baral ʼ80

Email: howie@chairyogaonline.com

Website: https://www.chairyogaonline.com

Social: @chairyogaonline

About:

Waiting at an airport terminal, a train station, a bus stop, a ferry terminal, really so many places... we spend that time waiting and sitting. Let us instead use these few minutes to do mindful movements to help invigorate the body, mind and spirit. All ages and all abilities will benefit from movement with Chair Yoga Online sequences.

Review:

“I love how Chair Yoga allows me to move and accommodates everyone with different abilities.”- Flora

My Gym La Jolla

Co-Founder: Cameron Bunce, MBA ‘14

Phone: 858-352-6085

Location: 8657 Villa La Jolla Drive, La Jolla Village Square, 121B, La Jolla, CA 92037

Email: lajolla@mygym.com

Website: https://www.mygym.com/lajolla

Social: @mygymlajolla

About:

My Gym was born out of our passion to teach children in a fun, physically engaging environment. We delighted in seeing children's eyes light up for all those incredible milestones, from the tentative first steps to tumbling down soft mats. Sharing the parents’ excitement at their children’s accomplishments was the high point of our day.

Review:

“Our time at MyGym La Jolla has been the best part of our week! I've been bringing my one-year-old to this location since June and he gets so excited when he sees where we are going. The owner and staff members are so kind, patient and enthusiastic with the kids. The classes are the perfect balance of free play and organized skill practice/activities. There is truly something for every kid at every developmental level here. And my son takes the best nap afterward, which is so nice when you have a toddler! We love MyGym and can't wait for our next class!” - Jamie L.

Tolbert Center for Rehabilitation and Wellness

CEO/Founder: Glenna Tolbert ʼ85

Phone: 424-355-0344

Location: 240 S. La Cienega Blvd., Suite 250, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Email: help@wlakarate.org

Website: https://drglennatolbert.com

Social: @tolbertcenterforrehabandwellness

About:

The Tolbert Center for Rehabilitation and Wellness, founded by Glenna Tolbert, M.D., Q.M.E., is a Los Angeles-area state-of-the-art medical facility specializing in using non-surgical and minimally invasive techniques and procedures to help people enjoy long-term pain relief. Our vision is to restore quality of life and wellness, and optimize our patients' ability to function.

Review:

“Five stars is not even close to enough! I am seven years out from breast cancer, the formal treatment stopped cancer, but the other side-effects of the treatment are nightmarish. Dr. Tolbert has helped me manage to get through the treatment and start the process of getting my post-treatment body back in balance. Her investigative approach to my individual issues has gotten me MUCH better results than anything I was getting from my 'traditional' doctors. I am also pleased with her patience, humility and knowledge - I don't feel rushed or dismissed. She answers my questions and appreciates my desire for a correction of my issues (not just symptom management).” - Debra H.

Yoga Wake Up

Co-Founder: Lizzie Brown, Exp. MBA ʼ24

Location: Venice Beach, California

Email: team@yogawakeup.com

Website: https://www.yogawakeup.com

Social: @yogawakeup

About:

The snooze button has been wrecking our sleep and our mornings for far too long. Enter Yoga Wake Up, the first-ever Yoga Alarm Clock that teaches you to wake up the right way — with yoga! Yoga Wake Up has hundreds of sessions, and two dedicated series created to teach you how to have your best morning yet.

Review:

“I love this app. I have chronic health issues and wake up in a lot of pain each day. This app is such a positive way to start my day. You can pick from tons of ‘wake-ups.’ Some are just meditations and a little movement, others have stretching and restorative yoga poses you can do in bed as you wake up. Then others get you up and do standing yoga poses right next to your bed. They all have different themes and vary in length so you can choose what’s right for you each day. For someone who has a tough time getting out of bed each day, this has been a game changer. I highly recommend this app.” - Tilly55.

Monsoon Maya Meditation

CEO/Founder: Maya Bitton, LL.M. ʼ08

Phone: 818-633-6728

Email: MonsoonMayaM@gmail.com

Website: https://www.monsoonmaya.com

Social: @MonsoonMayaMeditation

About:

Maya is a Chopra-certified meditation teacher who conducts meditation sessions and workshops (in-person and virtual) for individuals and groups. Her teachings include both theory and practical tools, utilizing The Ways of MAYA: Meditation, Affirmations, Yogic-breath and Awareness.

Review:

“I have been thinking of the qualities of a daily meditation practice for a long while. I tried guided meditation and other forms of meditation, and I kept struggling with it. When I met Maya Bitton and heard of the principles of Primordial Sound Meditation, I understood I needed to try this method. What I like about this technique is that the personal mantra acts as a clearing for the mind. You play it over and over in your head, it takes the space of other thoughts, and eventually, the mind can zone out of, or transcend thought, connecting us to the silence that is already there inside us. I found this most helpful. Having a one-on-one teacher is very helpful in learning the technique, and Maya is a knowledgeable guide and an usher into this practice.” - Hilla

Embodying Your Curriculum

CEO/Founder: Angelica Singh ʼ98

Phone: 773-769-7217

Location: 4050 N.E. Broadway St., Portland, OR 97232

Email: info@embodyingyourcurriculum.com

Website: https://www.embodyingyourcurriculum.com

Social: @theembodimentprocess

About:

Embodying Your Curriculum is an online course that equips faculty and students with pedagogies to address overwhelm during a time of unprecedented change in education. Amidst political demonstrations, racial injustice and an international pandemic that has hit the U.S. hard, our students and faculty are experiencing more anxiety, mental health challenges and feelings of overwhelm than ever before. Embodying Your Curriculum is a modern, innovative approach to increasing faculty productivity and boosting student retention. It combines trauma-informed pedagogies and mental health neuroscience to teach practical solutions that will retain faculty, retain students, increase the value of your classroom and create a lasting relationship with students who will feel deeply connected to the university, even as alumni.

Review:

“Professor Chari’s unique and genuine style of teaching is unlike that of any professor I have had the opportunity of learning from before. I continue to be amazed at her ability to lead us in connecting with the creative and intellectual parts of ourselves and combining rather than separating these parts. I also greatly admire her commitment to encouraging us to engage with the political, through our stories and writing, and those of others. It has been an incredible honor and such a wonderful opportunity to be able to take this class with Professor Chari, and I do believe every student should have the opportunity to take a class from her – thank you.” - Namratha S.

Mastery Fitness

Co-Founder: Kevin Chu, MBA ʼ19

Phone: 800-899-3450

Location: 375 W. Victoria St., Gardena, CA 90248

Website: https://masteryfitness.com

Social: @mastery_fitness

About:

Mastery Fitness is an innovative facilities services provider, delivering full-lifecycle gym builds and consulting services for residential and commercial gym design. In this changing industry, we are contributing to the disruption of the "traditional" equipment lease model. So whether you're a large spin studio, boutique hotel or a fitness-minded individual, Mastery Fitness has you covered.

Review:

“I have had such a wonderful experience dealing with the folks at Mastery Fitness. I purchased a refurbished Precor Elliptical machine and I absolutely love it! Kevin was so attentive and took the time to help me find the right machine, and then spent time going over all the features with me. He also delivered the machine to my house and I live very remotely. I can tell that he does quality work and really cares about his customers' satisfaction. I highly recommend this business to anyone who wants a high-end quality workout machine, doesn't want to pay "new" prices, and wants to have an excellent customer service experience!” - Jessica S.

Piper + Enza

CEO/Founder: Rita Ho-Bezzola, MBA ʼ07

Location: Online

Email: hello@piperandenza.com

Website: https://piperandenza.com

Social: @piperandenza

About:

Our mission at Piper + Enza, a health and happiness company, is to support children and their families with the inevitable bumps and bruises of growing up, shifting the narrative from a place of fear to one of healing, knowledge and celebration. Using books, tools, toys and resources developed in collaboration with early childhood educators, child life experts, pediatricians and child psychologists, we want to give families strategies to navigate through the fears and unknowns of growing up and instead, support them in embracing the journey.

Review:

“A must-have in your children's books collection! What a playful way of explaining why the body reacts a certain way to protect itself! By making it fun and reassuring. Also, a good book to keep handy for parents who need to answer all the questions of their child: "Why is my nose running?" "Why do we get sick?"...Clearly informative for both grown-ups and children” - Lucie

The Symptom Sleuth

Founders: Michelle Wong ʼ08 and Edward Hynson ʼ10

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Email: thesymptomsleuth@gmail.com

Website: https://thesymptomsleuth.com

Social: @thesymptomsleuth

About:

When an eczema flare-up painfully appeared on the sweet little girl's face, first I had a flashback of my cousin being bullied for growing up with a skin condition; then I had an idea stemming from my own experience controlling my eczema today. I designed The Trigger Tracker so that the little girl could use stickers to collect and visualize data while practicing the scientific method to uncover what triggers her flare-ups. (Spoiler alert: it was milk!) With help from my husband (a nurse with joint pain), my cousin with multiple sclerosis and my sister with lupus, we designed The Symptoms Log to help people track all kinds of symptoms. Collectively, The Symptom Sleuth aims to empower you to take charge of your own health with detailed records to share with your doctor with information your doctor would want to know.

Review:

“I've had psoriasis all my life, and only in the last 10 years discovered that food was the major contributing factor to my terrible skin. I started a program to help people heal their psoriasis but struggled to find an elegant way to track what we eat. I was introduced to Symptom Sleuth's Trigger Tracker, and it was exactly what I was looking for. It's beautifully made with stitched binding, and nicely laid out pages. It even helped me figure out why I had a flare-up recently. I love the book and my clients are using it to log their foods to figure out what their trigger foods are too. Highly recommended.” - Thomas P.

Prospera Mental Health & Wellness

CEO/Founder: Andrea Niles ʼ07, M.A. ʼ11, Ph.D. ʼ16

Phone: ‪415-289-9114

Email: support@prosperamhw.com

Website: https://prosperamhw.com

Social: @prosperamhw

About:

Prospera is a mental health platform that provides exceptional mental health care specifically for moms. Our mental health coaches are certified in maternal mental health and use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the world’s most effective approach to improving symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Review:

“The phrase ‘therapy’ can be intimidating, and occasionally we lose sight of the fact that everyone in today's society has anxiety on some level. I realized that I couldn't control my anxiety on my own because it was now negatively affecting my mental health. I resorted to Prospera at that point and am I glad I did! A good therapist is not someone you talk to for an hour and then ask for advice from. A skilled therapist guides you through the process, identifies patterns in your life and equips you with coping mechanisms. Having Sara as my therapist made my experience completely positive. Even though I still experience anxiety, I am certain that I can manage it with the help of Sara. I highly recommend Prospera for anyone dealing with anxiety or depression.” - Karina R.

***

To submit a Bruin-owned business for future consideration, please send a note to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

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