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Winter Holidays Museum Exhibitions

Looking for family-friendly winter break activities? The Fowler Museum on the UCLA campus and the Hammer Museum in Westwood Village are both hosting exhibitions with strong connections to Los Angeles's past, present and future. Northern California alumni can also enjoy art exhibits from various UC art programs coming to the Sausalito Center for the Arts this spring.

Fowler Museum

The exhibit “Fire Kinship: Southern California Native Ecology and Art” at the Fowler Museum is an immersive experience which explores the fire stewardship practices of four Southern California Indigenous communities — Tongva, Cahuilla, Luiseño and Kumeyaay — through objects, stories and art.

The exhibit is a timely invitation to consider the first inhabitants of Southern California and their relationship with natural elements. For centuries, these communities have chosen to view fire as a regenerative and vital tool for land stewardship.

The exhibit begins with a section called “Our Fire Relative,” with everyday objects made from natural materials and an exploration of how the objects are connected to fire practices. Visitors can explore the intricate structure of a woven basket, a practice central to indigenous history. “Basket weavers are experts on the plant materials that need fire. We use that conversation as an entrypoint to get to know not only the ecosystem, but also the challenges of gathering plant material today.”

There are also artworks that have been specially commissioned to explore the fire theme, including Weshoyot Alvitre’s Dormidera portrait series honoring Indigenous women; a multimedia work by Gerald Clarke Jr. with birdsong, video and natural materials; and Leah Mata Fragua’s installation featuring poppy-dyed paper sculptures. Fragua says about her piece, “My mission is to create ephemeral works that honor my community's values around sustainability practices, while shedding light on pressing environmental issues.”

The next section, “Fire Scars,” walks the viewer through the history of fire suppression through archival materials, including a diary entry from a Spanish explorer and the National Parks fire suppression materials. The final section, “Begging to Burn,” explores the revitalization of fire practices and how younger generations are joining the conversation.

The exhibit is curated by Daisy Ocampo Diaz (Caxcan), assistant professor of history at Cal State San Bernardino; Lina Tejeda (Pomo), a graduate student research assistant at Cal State San Bernardino; and Michael Chavez (Tongva), a former Fowler archaeological collections manager and NAGPRA project manager.

As part of their process, the curators gathered a committee of community leaders from the four tribes. They say, “At every gathering and workshop meeting, our partners expanded our scope, connected us across tribal networks, and ensured that we were well on our way.”

“Fire Kinship: Southern California Native Ecology and Art” runs through April 12, 2026. The museum is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, though holiday hours may vary. Admission is free.

Hammer Museum

In Westwood Village, the Hammer Museum is hosting Made in L.A. 2025, the seventh iteration of the biennial series. Curators Essence Harden and Paulina Pobocha spent more than a year immersing themselves in Los Angeles’s art scene to develop the exhibition which features the work of 27 local artists and gives the viewer insight into the ideas emerging from Los Angeles’s art world.

The curators have created a mix of new installations, videos, sculptures and paintings commissioned for the show as well as significant archival work. The catalogue for the show states, “Neither myth nor monolith, Los Angeles is many things to many people, and its dissonance is perhaps its most distinguishing feature.”

Six of the artists included in the show are UCLA alumni:

Pat O’Neill ’62, M.A. ’64, the first American to receive a master’s degree in moving image art from UCLA in the predigital era
Na Mira, M.F.A. ’13, an experimental artist who creates video and sound installations
Hanna Hur, M.F.A. ’19, who develops work through time, sight and touch
Beaux Mendes, M.F.A. ’19, who creates abstract works “animated by latent apparitional figures”
Carl Cheng ’63, M.A. ’67, whose early sculptures were inspired by aerospace, industrial design and consumer electronics
Nicole-Antonia Spagnola, M.A. ’18, a multimedia artist whose short film “1-2-3: Apartment Gallery” can be viewed in three locations at the Hammer, including the Billy Wilder Theater box office windows

In the main gallery, a giant green pickle leans against a mustard-yellow cylinder and a smear of ketchup-hued red - this is O’Neill’s 1964 piece “Safer Than Springtime.” His sculptural forms are “objects born of science fiction and the very real innovations of the aerospace industry that flourished in Southern California during the second half of the 20th century.”

In stark contrast to O’Neill’s playful sculpture, Hanna Hur’s five- canvases artwork “Suspension” (2025) stands alone in the Vault Gallery. According to the audio guide, “The overwhelming size and visual effect of these vastly scaled fields of white prompt an intense physical response in the viewer, rooted in visual phenomena and enigmatic imagery.”

Don’t forget to bring headphones if you choose to listen to the audio guide, accessible by scanning the QR code on your phone. The guide not only expands on your understanding of the artwork but also poses questions for deepening your engagement with the art. Parts of the guide were written by Julia Park ’25, a UCLA alum and former student educator at the Hammer Museum.

The exhibit at the Hammer runs through March 1, 2026. Admission is free.

Sausalito Center for the Arts

For alumni in Northern California, “Open Inquiry: UC Arts” will open at the Sausalito Center for the Arts this spring. The exhibition brings together artists from the renowned University of California art programs. “Open Inquiry” is a celebration of public arts education and highlights the interconnectedness of research and artistic practice.

The exhibit features 60 works in a variety of mediums by current students and young alumni from UCLA, UC Berkeley and UC Davis. Curator Jennifer Bailey Wechsler, who sits on the UCLA Arts board and is a parent of two recent UCLA graduates says, “Through the practice of art in our daily lives, minds can be changed, stories can be told and personal experiences can be transformed into work that can impact the world.”

The exhibition runs from March 14 through April 16, 2026. Bruins are invited to attend the opening reception on Saturday, March 21, from 3 to 6 p.m. The Sausalito Center for the Arts (SCA) is a cultural community center that revitalized the formerly unoccupied Bank of America building in downtown Sausalito.

Bruin-Owned Restaurants Part 4

he holidays are the perfect time to dine out with family and friends and rekindle bonds over a shared meal. In this fourth edition of our Bruin restaurants series, feast your eyes on the delicious selections offered by these alumni-owned establishments. Warning: Scrolling further will trigger your appetite.

Little Fatty

Owner/Founder: David Kuo ʼ01

Location: 3809-3813 Grandview Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90066

Phone: 310-853-5417

Email: info@littlefattyla.com

Website: littlefattyla.com

Social: @littlefattyla

Yelp Rating: 4.0 stars

About:

Little Fatty is a lively neighborhood restaurant in Mar Vista, California, renowned for its modern interpretation of Taiwanese comfort food. Founded by chef-owner David Kuo, the spot blends nostalgic flavors with a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The menu features favorites like three-cup chicken, beef noodle soup and mapo tofu, all inspired by Kuoʼs Taiwanese-American upbringing. With its casual vibe, creative cocktails and adjacent bar, Big Bar, Little Fatty has become a go-to destination for locals seeking bold, flavorful dishes and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Review:

“I was looking for a place to eat during lunch time, and I came across this place. It opens at 5 p.m., and I was really excited to try it. I did not have a reservation, but they do tend to get very busy at night, so Iʼd recommend making one. I ordered the 3-cup chicken, beef chow fun and fried rice. I absolutely loved my food. It was so tasty. The service was super fast as well. The place is so nice as well, dark, pretty lights, wonderful atmosphere. I look forward to coming here again on my next trip to L.A.” - Nav C.

AttaGirl

Co-Owner: Alice Hua Mai ʼ09

Location: 1238 Hermosa Ave., Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Phone: 424-600-2882

Email: info@attagirlla.com

Website: attagirlla.com

Social: @attagirl.la

Yelp Rating: 4.6 stars

About:

AttaGirl is a Coastal Mediterranean restaurant that balances the fun and excitement of a lively atmosphere with the finesse of engaging and thoughtful service. Featuring a live wood fire, our menu includes grilled meats and seafood, market vegetable-driven mezze, spreads and light pastas. The wine list reflects our passion for renowned Californian winemakers and Mediterranean climate varietals. A vibrant, warm-weather cocktail list honors Southern European archetypes that refresh after a salty day at the beach.

Review:

“I have nothing but outstanding things to say about AttaGirl. The food was phenomenal. I highly recommend getting the chefʼs plate to start. It comes with (4) different types of spreads. They were all good! As for entrees, you canʼt go wrong with the skewers. The beef tenderloin was my personal favorite. The crispy fried prawns were also a great choice. The spinach rigatoni was also good, although not a fan favorite.” - Noesh H.

Chris N Eddyʼs

Co-Founder: Chris Karimian ʼ14

Location: 5539 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028

Phone: 323-544-3600

Email: chriskarimian@yahoo.com

Website: chrisneddys.com

Social: @chrisneddys

Yelp Rating: 4.4 stars

About:

Chris N Eddyʼs is a Hollywood-born burger joint founded by two childhood friends, Chris Karimian and Eddy Poghosyan. What started as a small pop-up in a parking lot quickly grew into a popular brick-and-mortar spot on Sunset Boulevard. Known for its signature smash style sliders served on Martinʼs potato rolls, the menu keeps things simple and satisfying with juicy cheeseburgers, grilled or raw onions, pickles, tater tots and crispy waffle fries. The restaurantʼs laid-back, neon-accented vibe and late-night hours have made it a local favorite for quick, affordable comfort food. With its mix of nostalgic style, friendly energy and crave-worthy burgers, Chris N Eddyʼs has earned a loyal following across Los Angeles.

Review:

“Oh my lanta, the best burger experience we have had in a longggg time :). We have found our new late-night/anytime burger spot! So amazing. First of all, great customer service. Friendly and welcoming as soon as we walked in the door. Major plus. The food was a 20/10. I got the sliders with the inside-out bun. My BF and his friend got the original slider with all the fixings. The fries were fire. Cooked perfectly with the perfect amount of seasonings. Their sauce was insane, kind of like In-N-Out but better! We will definitely be regulars and be happy to spread the word. It is also super cute and clean. Please do yourself a favor and try this place! You will not be disappointed!” - Star S.

Enzoʼs Italian Restaurant

Co-Owner: Tom Jennett ʼ87

Location: 134 N. Mill St., Glen Tavern Inn, Santa Paula, CA 93060

Phone: 805-933-3444

Email: kenneth@glentavern.com

Website: officialglentavern.com

Social: @enzos_italian_restaurant

Yelp Rating: 4.2 stars

About:

Enzoʼs Italian Restaurant, located inside the historic Glen Tavern Inn in Santa Paula, California, offers an authentic Italian dining experience, serving classic dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a variety of traditional pastas, pizzas and entrees, all prepared with care to highlight the flavors of Italy. Enzoʼs is known for its cozy, elegant setting, making it a favorite spot for both casual dinners and special occasions. Open Tuesday through Sunday, the restaurant combines excellent cuisine with attentive service, providing a memorable experience for all who visit.

Review:

“Honestly, one of the best meals Iʼve had in a long time. We started with the fig and pig pizza to share as a group, and I ordered a modified chicken parm with charred broccolini!!! Wow, it was amazing! Our server was so kind! Thank you for an incredible meal! Ask to sit with your group in the lobby by the fireplace! So fun!” - Brianna D.

Delicious at the Dunbar

Co-Owner: Adriana Cortes

Location: 4229 S. Central Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90011

Phone: 323-918-2087

Website: deliciousatthedunbar.com

Social: @deliciousatthedunbar

Yelp Rating: 4.0 stars

About:

Established in 2018, Delicious at the Dunbar Cuisine is inside of the historic Dunbar Hotel in Los Angeles, which was once considered America's finest Black hotel and a hub for L.A.'s Central Avenue jazz scene. The 3,000-square-foot venue has now revived the old music club that has been decorated to reflect the cultural history of the landmark, which once hosted legends such as Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Ray Charles and Duke Ellington. We serve our food fresh daily so come out and discover our new location, a larger sit-down version with upscale table service. Put our service to the test and come taste the best soul food and Mexican cuisine you'll ever experience!

Review:

Had the pleasure of visiting Delicious at the Dunbar Hotel during a business meeting with a group of eight, and we were all thoroughly impressed. Our waitress was super nice and incredibly attentive, making sure we were well taken care of from start to finish. I ordered the French toast, and it did not disappoint — buttery, light and generously portioned. The scrambled eggs were fresh and fluffy, and the sausage was packed with flavor. A couple of folks at the table tried the chicken sandwich, which looked amazing and the oxtails plate is a definite must-try — tender and flavorful, served with perfectly roasted sweet potatoes. Great service, great food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!

Chez Foushee

Owner: Whitney Cardozo ʼ87

Location: 2 E. Grace St., Richmond, VA 23219

Phone: 804-648-3225

Email: info@chezfoushee.com

Website: chezfoushee.com

Social: @chezfoushee

Yelp Rating: 4 stars

About:

Chez Foushee is a beloved restaurant located in the heart of downtown Richmond, Virginia, known for its inviting atmosphere and refined approach to contemporary American cuisine with French influences. Originally opened in 1989, the restaurant has been a local favorite for decades, continuing to deliver exceptional dining experiences that blend classic dishes with creative flair and seasonal ingredients. The elegant yet comfortable setting makes it a popular choice for both casual lunches and special occasions, reflecting the charm and culinary spirit that have defined Chez Foushee for more than 30 years.

Review:

“Ended up here completely by accident on a nice Sunday morning. It was meant to be just a nearby, safe choice, that seemed ok and had decent reviews. However, after coming here, it is probably now my favorite spot in Richmond! This is an extremely fine establishment with exceptional customer service (just the way it should be in a French-style restaurant), high-quality meals and great decor. Additionally, the restaurant staff has a great selection of French music playing, which completes the whole experience. A totally great place that must be visited, whether you are looking for a fine dining experience or just a quick brunch. I wish I could give 10 stars.” - Alex I.

La Fogata Mexican Restuarant

Co-Owner: Vram Alian ʼ05

Location: 5142 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

Phone: 818-501-9065

Email: info@vivalafogata.com

Website: vivalafogata.com

Social: @vivalafogata

Yelp Rating: 3.8 stars

About:

La Fogata Mexican Restaurant in Van Nuys brings authentic Mexican flavors to the heart of the San Fernando Valley. Known for its vibrant, colorful atmosphere and warm hospitality, the restaurant offers a diverse range of traditional dishes, including flavorful tacos and enchiladas, sizzling fajitas and fresh seafood. Guests appreciate the bold, rich flavors, generous portions and family-friendly environment, making it a popular spot for both casual dining and special gatherings. With a commitment to quality ingredients and authentic recipes, La Fogata provides a true taste of Mexico right in Van Nuys.

Review:

“I have seen La Fogata many times driving up and down Van Nuys Boulevard, and finally decided to stop and try it out. Before walking in, I was under the assumption that this was a restaurant with waiters and all that. I was pleasantly surprised at the setup; you walk up and order the way you do at most fast-food joints. But let me tell you, La Fogata is no fast food joint! The food is fantastic! I had the carne asada plate, and it was tasty! I believe I found a hidden gem! Awesome! Will definitely be back!” - Sergio P.

Moo Creamery

Owner/Founder: Jessica Pounds ʼ03

Location: 4885 Truxtun Ave., Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Phone: 661-861-1130

Email: info@moocreamery.com

Website: moocreamery.com

Social: @moocreamery

Yelp Rating: 4.1 stars

About:

Moo Creamery is a popular local diner in Bakersfield, California, founded by Jessica Pounds in 2008. Known for its gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries and homemade ice cream, the restaurant features creative menu items like the PB & B Burger, which combines peanut butter and bacon, and unique ice cream flavors such as bacon ice cream. Moo Creamery emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local producers, ensuring flavorful dishes for its patrons. In 2025, the restaurant announced plans to relocate from its original Truxtun Avenue location to downtown Bakersfield, aiming to revitalize the East Chester neighborhood and provide easier access for customers.

Review:

“This is my third time at Moo Creamery and every time it has been what I expected or more! Iʼve been there for breakfast and lunch. This time it was for breakfast, so my husband got the chilaquiles with brisket. I ordered the protein sweet potato waffles and couldnʼt finish it. I got a caramel latte too! Usually itʼs pretty quiet inside, and I love that they have outside seating in case I were to take my kids. The service is perfect; they check on you just enough to make sure you have everything you need, but not too often that you feel rushed out.” - Jillian G.

Christakis Greek Cuisine

Co-Owners: Michael O’Hare Wallace ʼ94 and Sarah Wallace Rasmussen ʼ02

Location: 13011 Newport Ave., Tustin, CA 92780

Phone: 714-731-6600

Website: christakisgreekcuisine.com

Social: @christakisgreekcuisine

Yelp Rating: 4.5 stars

About:

Christakis was opened by William and Joanne Christakis Wallace on April 1, 1996. A native of Agios Dimitrios, Greece, it was always Joanne's dream to create a little piece of home in California. With her family, and the two Greek Tzoytzorakos brothers, Joanne saw her dream come to life. Although Joanne lost her battle to cancer only three years after creating Christakis, her spirit lives strong. The recipes are based on home meals, and have been expanded by the family at Christakis. We are blessed with regular customers that have been our cornerstone, and delighted by visitors we hope become family.

Review:

“Came here on a spontaneous date night late in the summer. I believe my partner was easily able to grab a reservation. We were immediately charmed by the live music playing in the patio and the decor indoors. My partner had the chance to travel to Greece last year and has been looking for a Greek restaurant to capture the flavors he had there, and according to him, Christakis was exactly it. The pastitsio was what he was seeking, and I really appreciated the meaty, herby flavors. The lamb chops were the most tender lamb chops I've ever had, and I thought it was a nice touch adding both our entrees on one plate to eat with all the sides to eat family style. I've tried recreating the potatoes since coming here but have to come back soon to have the real deal! I would recommend everything we ate. The trio of dips were delicious and the pita tasted fresh. The villager's salad was refreshing. If they have the tomato soup, it's a must try (spoken as a tomato soup lover!). The baklava was a delicious way to end our meal.” - Kim C.

Stationæry

Co-Owner: Alissa Bell Carnazzo ʼ06

Location: 3 San Carlos St., Carmel, CA 93921

Phone: 831-250-7183

Email: info@thestationaery.com

Website: thestationaery.com

Social: @thestationaery

Yelp Rating: 4.0 stars

About:

Stationæry is a neighborhood restaurant in Carmel, California, operated by Anthony & Alissa Carnazzo. Tucked between San Carlos and Mission Streets in the San Carlos Square, this intimate space is a haven for locals. Offering brunch, dinner, specialty coffee and natural wines, they celebrate comforting flavors with elegant presentation. Led by Chef Amalia Scatena, they primarily source from Monterey and Santa Cruz County farms and ranches, according to what is fresh and in season.

Review:

“Great spot for brunch - there was a nice variety of seating (outdoor, greenhouse or indoor) and the service was attentive. The farmerʼs salad was delicious - nice variety of fresh vegetables (broccolini, green beans, radish, carrots) and paired well with an apple cider vinaigrette that had perfect zing. The steak and eggs were perfectly cooked and seasoned! The tenderloin was tender and the potatoes creamy. The chimichurri and sweet onion complemented the dish very well!” - Caly T.

Mariaʼs Italian Kitchen - West Los Angeles

Owner: Madelyn Alfano ʼ80

Location: 10761 Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064

Phone: 310-441-3663

Email: maria@mariasitaliankitchen.com

Website: mariasitaliankitchen.com

Social: @mariasitaliankitchen

Yelp Rating: 3.7 stars

About:

Mariaʼs Italian Kitchen in West Los Angeles is a family-owned restaurant founded by Madelyn “Maddy” Alfano, whose passion for food was inspired by her mother, Maria Alfano. What began as Maria selling homemade Italian dishes from her garage grew into a beloved neighborhood restaurant known for its warm hospitality and classic Italian comfort food. Under Maddyʼs leadership, Mariaʼs Italian Kitchen has expanded across Los Angeles, keeping the same homemade recipes and family spirit that started it all. Itʼs a local favorite for hearty pastas, pizzas and traditional dishes served with a personal touch.

Review:

“I cannot recommend this place enough for anyone who is gluten-free. The kitchen was very accommodating and made sure everything was not only safe but delicious, too! Iʼm newly gluten-free, so I remember the taste of bread very clearly and Iʼve yet to find any place that has such delicious food I can eat. They have gluten-free bread, pasta and pizza. Seriously, come eat here; it was delicious.” - Kailyn K.

Smoke Queen Barbecue

Owner/Founder: Winne Yee ʼ03

Location: 12941 9th St., Garden Grove, CA 92840

Phone: 714-583-8251

Email: winnie@smokequeenbbq.com

Website: smokequeenbbq.com

Social: @smokequeenbbq

Yelp Rating: 4.4 stars

About:

Smoke Queen Barbecue in Garden Grove, California, is owned and founded by Winnie Yee-Lakhani, a pitmaster known for blending classic Texas-style barbecue with Asian-inspired flavors. What started as a pop-up has grown into a popular restaurant celebrated for its smoky brisket, tender ribs and creative sides that reflect Yee-Lakhaniʼs multicultural background. Her approach to barbecue honors traditional slow-smoking techniques while adding bold twists, making Smoke Queen a standout in Orange Countyʼs food scene and a rising name in modern American barbecue.

Review:

“I literally flew in from Texas to California just to try Smoke Queen Barbecue after hearing so much about it, and it was absolutely worth the trip! The food was phenomenal: the brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender with a perfect smoke ring, the ribs had just the right pull, and the sides (especially the mac & cheese and cornbread) tasted like comfort on a plate. The service staff was top-notch, friendly, attentive and clearly passionate about what they do. Even with a busy line, the staff took time to explain the menu and make sure I got exactly what I wanted. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with that true barbecue joint feel but elevated with a clean, modern touch. You can tell this is a place built on craft and community. If youʼre anywhere near California (or even if youʼre not), Smoke Queen Barbecue is a destination spot. Iʼd happily fly back again just for another plate!” - Quinton T.

BKLYN Wild

Owner: Ivy Stark ʼ93

Location: 55 Water St., New York, NY 10038

Email: ivy@bklynwild.com

Website: bklynwild.com

Social: @bklynwild

Yelp Rating: 3.4 stars

About:

BKLYN Wild is a plant-forward, vegan restaurant located at 55 Water Street in New York City. The concept, associated with Chef Ivy Stark, focuses on creative, flavorful dishes that highlight vegetables, grains and plant-based proteins. The restaurant emphasizes sustainability and healthy eating while delivering bold, inventive flavors that appeal to both vegans and omnivores alike. With its modern, casual atmosphere, BKLYN Wild has become a go-to spot for those seeking satisfying, eco-conscious meals in the heart of the Financial District.

Review:

“Let me preface by saying Iʼm not a vegan and do not particularly enjoy vegan food. However, I came here with my mom, who is very healthy, and we decided to give it a try. We ordered the Diablo and Feliz bowl, and wow, was it delicious. It was served fresh, and the levels of flavor depth were impressive (it may be the sauce or dressing they added?!). Overall, the service was prompt and fresh and the ambiance was fairly calm but keep in mind we were there when they opened. Iʼd recommend arriving before the lunch rush, so you can have plenty of seating options in the food hall. Pro-tip: bring your food to the rooftop for epic views.” - Mary D.

Chilte

Co-Owner/Founder: Aseret Arroyo ʼ03

Location: 765 Grand Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phone: 602-807-5226

Email: reservations@chiltephx.com

Website: www.chiltephx.com

Social: @chilte_phx

Yelp Rating: 4.4 stars

About:

Chilte is short for Chiltepan, which means strong but mighty. Starting in a 10x10 pop-up tent, we have always aimed to disrupt the industry at every level, whether cooking on the street or in a five-star restaurant. As we lay the groundwork for our first brick and mortar, we are determined to stay focused on the vision of where we are headed, yet never forgetting where we come from. Food is an intimate universal connection to our past, present and future. It allows us to immerse ourselves and experience palatable and multicultural art. We aim to bring our unique and inspired expression to the table while allowing the dishes to tell the stories untold. Join us as we strive to inspire a new culture in the culinary industry by sourcing locally, cooking from the heart, mentoring one another and building our community through food.

Review:

“Loved the vibe when we walked in. It's eclectic and cozy. The music was not too loud. We ordered the pablanito and ponche margaritas. My second round I ordered the white/rose sangria. We started with the plantain and refried beans with crema starter. Then we decided to try the fried yucca. We ended up with the MSG chicken. They had two choices of meat tonight for that dish. The other choice was the pork chop. For dessert hubs ordered a shot of espresso and we tried the elote cheesecake. It was ALL ridiculously good! Our server was attentive and helpful. The menu is pretty vague and you kind of need to ask to see what really comes with the dish. Overall, it was a great date night and I would like to come back.” - Kelly C.

***

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

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UCLA AAP Alumni Spotlight - Lena Hines '99 , J.D. '02

Q&A WITH LENA HINES

Class: What year did you graduate, and what degree did you earn?

1999 (B.A.); 2002 (J.D.)

Major / Minor: What was your major (and minor, if applicable)?

English Literature Major

Current role, company, industry: Can you tell us about your current professional role, the company you're with, and the industry you're part of?

I’m a tax attorney; currently a Principal in the National Tax Department of a Big 4 Accounting Firm (Ernst & Young)

What does AAP mean to you? How has AAP supported you and/or its significance to your Bruin journey?

AAP has continued to help me find a community where I can thrive, support others, and work toward becoming the best version of myself—just as it did when I was a student at UCLA. Through AAP, I’ve found friends who sustained me through the 2020 pandemic and beyond, and I’ve been able to reflect on my career, appreciate past wins, and redefine my future goals.

How has AAP impacted your personal and professional development and success? Any specific ways you’ve seen AAP’s influence in your career or personal growth?

Staying connected with AAP has opened doors both personally and professionally. I’ve had opportunities to meet and mentor students through events hosted by groups like UCLA Black Alumni Association (UBAA) and the UCLA Latino Alumni Association (ULAA), and I’ve formed meaningful connections with other professional organizations. I’ve even been able to recruit students to my firm, which has been incredibly rewarding.

How have you stayed connected to AAP? Do you participate in events, mentorship, or any other initiatives that keep you engaged with the AAP community?

Since relocating back to Los Angeles in 2016, I’ve remained deeply engaged with AAP. Shortly after arriving, a fellow AAP alum invited me to a discussion where I met Dr. A, leading to my invitation to join the AAP Advisory Board in 2018. I’ve been connected with AAP and the broader Bruin community ever since—participating in events, mentoring students, and serving on the inaugural board of the AAP Alumni Network. Through these networks, I’ve built lasting relationships and stayed rooted in the Bruin community.

Faculty on Tour: Amy Mainzer - From Space Telescopes to Global Adventures

Tours to Watch For

Antarctica – November 2026: A dramatic, remote-continent expedition aboard a purpose-built expedition ship. An opportunity to explore icebergs, penguins, marine wildlife, and polar landscapes with expert narration and scientific context from Professor Mainzer herself.
Total Solar Eclipse in Tunisia – July 2027: A rare celestial event coupled with guided travel across North Africa, paired with Amy Mainzer’s expertise on cosmic phenomena.

Amy Mainzer is a planetary scientist at UCLA's Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences and one of the world’s foremost experts on asteroids, comets, and near-Earth objects. With a career that spans major space missions, including her role as principal investigator for NEOWISE, the Earth-orbiting infrared telescope that scanned the skies for Earth-approaching objects, Mainzer has built a reputation for scientific excellence. She is also widely recognized for her commitment to public outreach and real-world scientific impact. Today, she’s leading the development of the next generation space telescope, Near-Earth Object Surveyor, aimed at discovering the large asteroids that pose a regional impact risk to Earth.

Mainzer’s influence reaches beyond telescopes. She’s received multiple honors including NASA awards and being named a Fellow of the American Astronomical Society. She has also served as a science advisor for children’s programming and major films, helping make complex space science accessible to the public.

Now, she’s bringing her passion for exploration and discovery to travel. Through UCLA Alumni Travel, Amy Mainzer will host special tours that combine her deep scientific insight with unforgettable global destinations, offering alumni and science-curious travelers alike a chance to journey the world with a top planetary scientist leading the way.

Whether you’re drawn by the wonders of Earth’s most remote places or the mysteries of space, traveling with Amy Mainzer promises a rare combination of adventure, education, and inspiration.

How DemocraShe Builds Civic Engagement for All

Sarah Jakle, M.P.P. ’04 (she/her) has always believed that leadership must support the whole human being. Her commitment to women’s civic empowerment began long before she founded her organization DemocraShe, but the seeds were planted in the classrooms and mentorship circles she experienced as a graduate student at UCLA.

Jakle studied literature as an undergraduate before beginning her early career working with unhoused communities and individuals living with mental illness. This included an internship at U.S. VETS in Long Beach, where she worked directly with veterans experiencing homelessness, trauma and complex behavioral health needs. The work highlighted the barriers that individuals face when navigating unstable housing, mental health challenges and limited resources.

“I was working with unhoused veterans who had survived extraordinary adversity,” Jakle said. “Trauma was everywhere. It became clear that understanding trauma was essential to understanding how to really help people.”

Although she was making an impact one person at a time, Jakle saw how structural policies often determined whether meaningful change was possible. That realization brought her to graduate school, where she sought to understand the systems that shape people’s lives.

She earned a master’s in public policy from the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs and later completed a master’s in social work at USC with a concentration in military social work. The dual training created what she describes as a “Venn diagram” of her interests. The public policy curriculum equipped her with analytical and quantitative tools, while her social work training gave her trauma-informed frameworks for understanding the emotional experiences of people navigating public systems.

At UCLA, Jakle took several courses that fundamentally shifted her perspective, including the statistics and evaluation courses that she initially found intimidating as a non-STEM student.

“I was a literature major, so taking calculus-based economics and statistics was a shock,” she said. “But those classes transformed me. They taught me that you cannot assume you have impact. You have to measure it.”

Another defining experience came from her mentorship with former Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis, one of her professors at UCLA Luskin. Dukakis invited her to his home, where she met his wife, Kitty Dukakis. Learning about Kitty’s treatment in the press during the 1988 presidential election had a lasting influence on Jakle.

“Kitty was brilliant and compassionate, but she had been deeply mistreated during the campaign,” Jakle said. “It was the first time I truly understood that the emotional experience of being in politics could be as consequential as any policy outcome.”

The experience opened Jakle’s eyes to how women experience public scrutiny, and how often their emotional well-being is overlooked in discussions about civic leadership. This realization stayed with her as she continued her work after graduate school.

From Theory to Practice

Jakle’s graduate training and early career experiences directly shaped the creation of DemocraShe, a nonpartisan leadership program for young women. The organization serves a diverse group of students, with the majority identifying as girls of color and many as first-generation Americans.

DemocraShe teaches students foundational civic knowledge, leadership skills and what Jakle calls “amygdala skills,” which are basic neuroscience tools that help young women regulate fear, discomfort and internalized barriers when stepping into unfamiliar or high-pressure spaces.

“Women are socialized to be perfect, and stepping out of your comfort zone can trigger the amygdala,” Jakle said. “That discomfort often shows up as hesitation or self-doubt, which people call imposter syndrome. We teach girls how to regulate those feelings so they can pursue opportunities that match their ambition.”

Grounding and resourcing are two of the trauma-informed techniques that students learn. Grounding involves returning to the present moment through sensory awareness. Resourcing involves cultivating an inner supportive voice to counteract internalized criticism. Both practices are drawn from trauma research and help to calm the amygdala, allowing the prefrontal cortex to re-engage.

“We teach girls that the brain is constantly scanning for threat and safety,” she said. “If they can regulate the amygdala, they can make choices from a place of confidence and clarity.”

DemocraShe integrates rigorous evaluation into its programming, a discipline Jakle attributes to her training at UCLA Luskin. Students complete anonymous pre-program and post-program surveys so the team can track changes over time. For the full 2025 cohort, 37% of students reported understanding how to move forward as active participants in American democracy before the 10-week flagship program. After completing the program, that figure rose to 99%.

Another key metric asks whether DemocraShe helped students do something they were previously afraid to try; 92% say yes. Examples range from delivering public remarks in religious spaces, to running for school leadership positions, to asserting themselves in instances of workplace conflict.

“These findings tell us that our work is shifting both leadership skills and resilience skills,” Jakle said. “We are helping young women navigate adversity while stepping into the roles they deserve.”

Mentorship and Civic Leadership

Although UCLA shaped her academic foundation, one of Jakle’s most influential mentors came through her political organizing work. She credits Ada Briceño, labor leader and former chair of the Democratic Party of Orange County, as someone who demonstrated what courageous leadership looks like.

“Watching Ada, I saw firsthand how women, especially women of color, experience systemic pushback in civic spaces,” Jakle said. “It made me passionate not only about strengthening our democracy but also about protecting the emotional lives of the women who lead.”

Jakle has also worked as the Get Out the Vote director for the California National Organization for Women. During that time, she heard many women receive vague warnings that political life would be difficult, without being offered any tangible tools to manage the challenges ahead.

“For me, that felt like a missed opportunity,” she said. “We have decades of research on how people can self-regulate during stress. We should not send women into public life without these tools.”

Navigating the Present and Looking Ahead

Jakle believes that civic engagement extends far beyond voting. She encourages students from all academic backgrounds to understand how policy affects their educational pathways, professional fields and daily lives. She also believes that higher education institutions can play a significant role in preparing the next generation of civic leaders.

One of her priorities is advocating for paid opportunities for students to participate in policy work. She notes that many early political pipeline programs are unpaid, which often prevents students who need to work from participating.

“There are meetings happening right now about the future of the UC system,” she said. “Students should be in those rooms, and they should be paid for their time. Otherwise, only students with financial flexibility will get access to those spaces.”

As part of that commitment, DemocraShe pays all participants who take part in its 10-week program or its one-day summer intensives held live on Zoom.

Jakle also recognizes that many young people feel overwhelmed by political uncertainty and social change. She emphasizes the importance of joy as a protective factor for the brain. She teaches a practice called “savoring,” in which individuals spend a few moments each morning noticing two joyful or beautiful things to counter the brain’s negativity bias.

“When there is so much suffering, it can feel like experiencing joy is a betrayal,” she said. “But joy protects the brain. It helps people stay engaged instead of burning out.”

Her advice for those seeking to remain informed and active is simple. She encourages people to find community, participate in local action, and take small, consistent steps that contribute to positive change. She also recommends looking at diverse sources of information and listening to students and young organizers who are at the center of campus activism.

“Democracy is woven through everyday life,” she said. “Small actions matter. Community matters. And every person has a role in shaping the world around them.”

Jakle’s journey from social work to public policy and civic empowerment illustrates how trauma-informed leadership can strengthen democracy. Through DemocraShe, she continues to uplift young women and equip them with tools that support both their public leadership and their inner resilience.

Diversity Digest

These alumni feature articles are developed by the Alumni Diversity Programs and Initiatives team to amplify the impact and reach of incredible Bruins across generations. They are published as part of the quarterly Diversity Digest newsletter, which highlights opportunities to engage with UCLA and the alumni community through a social justice lens.

Know a Bruin whose story should be told? We'd love to hear from you.

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Questions? Reach us at diversity@alumni.ucla.edu

From Russia With Love for L.A.

(Editor’s note: due to the topics and opinions expressed in this article, we are concealing the identity of the person being interviewed and will refer to her only as Natasha.)

One sunny afternoon during a San Fernando Valley alumni networking event, I struck up a conversation with a woman in her late 30s, who was born and raised in Moscow, and now happily lives and studies in Los Angeles.

Natasha was well educated, having obtained two degrees in Moscow: the first in economics from the Russian Academy of Foreign Trade; the second from the Institute of International Business. A lover of learning, she was always taking classes and gained over 20 years of work experience, including in IT where she implemented software for big Russian companies, and working for the audit firm Grant Thornton. She says, “I tried to get as much knowledge as I could, but I’m still learning, still studying, because the world is changing constantly, so I need to upgrade my knowledge of everything.”

In 2019, Natasha came to Los Angeles with the hope of getting into a master’s program at a “great university.” She chose California for the great weather and for its many reputable universities. She ended up completing three certificate programs at UCLA Extension from 2019 to 2024 in accounting, finance and general business studies.

Unfortunately, during her first year at Extension, the pandemic shut down in-person instruction and her classes were all taught online, limiting her interaction with classmates. By the time she took her last certificate program, society and the classrooms had completely opened up, campus activities had resumed and she was living the American life she had always dreamed of.

She said, “In Russia, we have a perception that education in Britain and the United States is the best education you can get. I actually agree, because the books that I have for my courses are so much better than Russian books. You can get all the knowledge from the book, plus when you have a great professor, there’s a great synergy there.”

Our conversation veered into comparisons of culture and politics between our two countries. She says, “I’ve traveled throughout Europe and Asia and now the States. From my viewpoint, people are people everywhere you go. There are some cultural differences, and each person has their pros and cons, but in every corner of the world, people have similar problems.”

In Russian propaganda, she says, America is a demonic country that’s trying to conquer Russia and its resources. They’re taught that American people are evil. But after living in Los Angeles, she completely disagrees. She says, “Here in Los Angeles, people are a little bit different, because there’s so many cultures mixed together, but still all these people are Americans who value their freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of expression, etc. and this kind of mentality makes it different.” She goes on to describe how Angelenos are free to dress however they like to express themselves and people are respectful of one another for these differences.

Not so in Russia, she says, where people have a mental block. She explains, “When I was growing up in Russia in the late '80s, early '90s, it was a period of time during the collapse of the Soviet Union, and it felt kind of like the United States where freedom was absolute and you can do whatever you want. But it was also not civilized and nice because people did very bad things and there were no police to stop them. You would see the Russian mafia shooting each other in the center of Moscow even though it was not legal to own guns. The police were controlled by the mafia and corruption was everywhere.”

Nonetheless, she described Russia during this time as a free society, which enjoyed freedom of speech, an independent press and citizens could say whatever they wanted against the government without repercussions. Slowly this began to change. “This frog has been boiling for a very long time. Little by little, piece by piece,” she alluded to how their democracy began eroding, “and now we actually don’t have any opposition (to Putin’s government).”

“That’s why I’m grateful that I’m here now, where I can express my position and not go to jail immediately.”

Many figures who oppose this current regime have left the country or stayed silent at the risk of being jailed or killed at the hands of the government. This included Putin’s rival, opposition-leader Alexei Navalny, who died in 2024 in a Russian prison.

She says, “In the U.S. Congress, the representatives fight for every vote. In Russia, there is no fight because it’s 100% in favor of Putin every time. Sometimes even dead representatives cast their vote for him.”

Natasha says Russian people live in fear. “People are afraid to say anything and try to avoid sensitive topics when talking to each other or family.” Mainly because they never know who is listening and who might report them. She describes Moscow as having one of the best surveillance systems where cameras are everywhere with facial recognition. People fear that the police are listening for anything inappropriate being said so they can arrest them. It’s become common knowledge that police have an arrest quota they need to meet.

She says, “Since 2022, we got very strict legislation about what can be considered a punishable act. If you say anything bad about the current administration, about Putin, about the war, about anyone in power, you can go to prison for eight years. It’s absolutely crazy.”

Natasha says the independent press has been shuttered in Russia, where the state controls all media. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are blocked in Russia and Meta is labeled an extremist organization. Ironically, WhatsApp continues to thrive as one of the most popular messaging platforms in Russia, despite it being run by Meta. The largest social media platform is VKontakte (VK), which is the Russian version of Facebook. But, she says, because everything is controlled or monitored by the government, posting a critique can land you in jail.

Since coming to Los Angeles, Natasha has been active with her newfound freedom to express herself in social media. Yet, she acknowledges this puts her at risk, especially upon her return to Moscow. She says, “That’s why I’m grateful that I’m here now, where I can express my position and not go to jail immediately.”

We switched topics to discuss the Russian perspectives regarding the war in Ukraine. When the war began, Natasha says people were shocked. Even Putin’s closes allies were shocked, but they had to pledge allegiance to him no matter what. There was a small group of hawkish Russians who were prone to violence and were eager to go to war, but she says, “The majority of Russians are just common people who don’t want to die, don’t want to kill anyone; they just want to live their lives and get through the day.”

There were protests that erupted in Moscow when the war started that were quickly put down by the police and protesters were jailed to discourage future antiwar activity. She says at first the Kremlin justified the war by claiming that Ukranian leadership were Nazis, despite President Zelenskyy being Jewish. Later, the narrative switched to Russians living in the Donbas and Lugansk region were being persecuted by Ukraine.

While the larger war began in 2022, the conflict really started with Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. This was presented in Russia like it was a referendum voted on by the people in that region. Natasha was conflicted with this narrative because, while there is a large population of Russians in Crimea, she has always viewed it as Ukranian territory. Yet from the government’s perspective, it was the majority Russian population in Crimea who voted to return to Russia.

After the Russian invasion, Western countries mobilized to exert heavy sanctions. Western companies also began moving their businesses out of Russia, including Visa and Mastercard. The hope was to collapse the Russian economy and bring them to the negotiating table for peace. But Natasha claims the sanctions actually did a good thing for the Russian economy. That’s because oligarchs who were traveling all over the world were forced to return to Russia with all their money and spend it there. When their accounts and assets were frozen by the European Union, these very wealthy Russians retreated home where they were able to access their other wealth stashed away in untouched accounts.

Like these oligarchs, Russian people were also able to skirt sanctions on products. Natasha says, “Russian people are creative, and they found ways to get all the sanctioned products from different countries.” Trade agreements with places like Iran, China and Hong Kong kept the grocery shelves stocked and buying goods off the black market became commonplace. Coca-Cola was among the U.S. companies who vacated their plant, but what Russia did was convert their factory into a Russian cola factory, creating a similar product to Coke.

Living in Los Angeles during the Trump Administration, Natasha says she’s starting to see some similarities to Russia. In Russia, she says, it took a couple of years to dismantle independent media so there is just one state-controlled media. Whereas in the U.S., political polarization has led to a distrust of the media, dividing people into two camps: consumers of either right-leaning media or left-leaning media. Unlike in Russia, she says, “There is only Fox News (Russian edition).”

Natasha says the terror she’s seeing happening in the streets of American cities from ICE operations has reminded her of tactics used back home. Deportations have always taken place in every administration; however, “it was never like a terror thing. You could at least count on due process. You wouldn’t see this level of violence towards regular people who aren’t criminals.”

She thinks that sort of violence may be effective in Russia but she’s not sure it will work in the U.S. “People in the United States are more fearless. They’re not used to this. They still believe in freedom and they will fight back. Plus, there are a lot of guns here. In Russia, we don’t have guns.”

Despite the changing times in America, Natasha is still very grateful to be here. The freedoms, the weather, the educational excellence ꟷ it still can’t be beat. However, she wants Americans to know what Russians are really like. “Russia has all forms of coldness. The climate, the politics, even the gloomy personalities, because people are oppressed. However, we are like coconuts. After you crack open that hard shell, it’s very nice inside. We are very nice, soft and warm inside.”

Earliest Known Pilipino Bruins at UCLA

Cosmopolitan Club 1922-23

(Note: Pilipino and Filipino are used interchangeably in this article and mean the same thing. Philippine locals use Pilipino because there is no phonetic equivalent to the letter "F" in the Philippine Islands’ indigenous languages.)

n honor of Filipino American History Month, we’re following up on an article published in the October 2023 issue of UCLA Alumni Connect documenting the history and impact of UCLA’s Pilipino community. Our story began with the “Filipino Students Association” in the 1927 UCLA yearbook (then called the University of California, Southern Branch). At that time, the Philippines were an American colony and many of these students were part of the pensionado program, a scholarship program for Pilipinos to attend college in the United States.

After our story was published, we heard from Joshua Dean Abad Valerio, MBA candidate at UCLA Anderson and marketing committee chair for the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association Board of Directors. He had discovered proof of Pilipino students at UCLA as early as 1921.

As part of the pensionado program, the Bureau of Insular Affairs War Department published a “Directory of Filipino Students in the United States.” The 1922 edition lists three students at the University of California, Southern Branch: Eugene C. Alonzo, Emil (Emilian) D. Menzen and Cesario Cabatingan. Because not all records of the school’s graduates have survived, this list may be incomplete.

Directory of Filipino Students in the United States lists three students attending the Southern Branch. — *Directory of Filipino Students in the United States lists three students attending the Southern Branch*.

Their stories encapsulate the experience of many young men and women who left their homeland and traveled on a nearly month-long journey by ship across the ocean to attend college in America.

Eugene C. Alonzo is listed as part of the Federal Class, a program that provided vocational training and education for injured WWI veterans. According to military records, Alonzo received the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism in action while serving with Machine-Gun Company, 364th Infantry Regiment, 91st Division, A.E.F., near Eclisfontaine, France, Sept. 27 - Oct. 4, 1918. The 91st was known as the "Wild West" division, since most of the young men came from the western United States.

While attending the Southern Branch, Alonzo lived at 120 North Broadway in downtown L.A. The area was known as "Little Manila," a precursor to today’s Historic Filipinotown, and home to Pilipino-run barber shops, pool halls and restaurants.

Emil (Emilian) D. Menzen is listed in the 1922, 1923, 1924 and 1925 yearbooks as the Sergeant-at-arms for the Agora Club, a political society club dedicated to service and siblinghood; a member of Club Espanol; and, in his senior year, the Pre-Legal Association. He was also a member of the Cosmopolitan Club, founded at the Southern Branch in 1922.

Justo Leano is mentioned in the 1923, ’24, ’25 and ’26 yearbooks as a member of the Cosmopolitan Club as well as the Filipino Club. He can also be found in the San Pedro News Pilot as a graduate of the San Pedro High School class of 1920. During the 1920s, the Los Angeles Harbor area had a large Pilipino community. Many Pilipinos who had served in WWI settled near Navy ports and worked in the shipyards. It appears that after leaving UCLA, Leano may have returned to the Philippines where he was killed during the Japanese occupation of WWII.

The Cosmopolitan Club at the time had a number of Pilipino members and other foreign students. The UCLA chapter of the club hosted social events and was part of a larger international movement known as Cosmopolitan International. Its president at the time, Chinese American Daisy L. Law, invited students to join in the Daily Bruin, "Loyal Californians, come and show your American spirit by supporting the Cosmopolitan Club. Foreign students, come and show your fellow students how proud you are of your own nationalities. Tell us by your words and actions.” Dr. Ernest Moore, director of the Southern Branch, wrote in the same article, “I shall be delighted to have you organize a Cosmopolitan Club. It is most necessary. I hope you will call upon me for any assistance which I can give you."

Cesario Cabatingan also appears in the 1922 directory of Filipinos in the U.S., but he does not appear in the Southern Branch yearbook. However, there is a record of him as the president of the Bogo Redeemers in 1922-23, a group based in Cebu province in the Philippines that works to help local youth overcome the burden of poverty.

Jesus Zafra Valenzuela is in the 1922 directory as a journalism student at USC, yet he appears in the 1923 UCLA yearbook as the Cosmopolitan Club recording secretary. Valenzuela went on to become editor of the Stockton, California, newspaper The Philippine Informer. He became an instructor in English and journalism at the University of the Philippines and wrote the “History of Journalism in the Philippine Islands” in 1933.

By 1924, there were enough Pilipino students to form the Filipino Club, which became the Filipino Student Association. The yearbook lists nine students, though there may have been more, each with their own background and story, and each an integral part of building the history of UCLA.

From UCLA to CEO: Shirley Torres '03 on Healing, Kinship and Leading Homeboy Industries

In August 2025, the UCLA Alumni Affairs Diversity Programs and Initiatives team interviewed Shirley Torres ’03 for the Diversity Digest in connection with the sold-out event Changemakers 2025: Radical Kinship in Action - A Day at Homeboy Industries .

Additionally, a Bruin story video highlighting Torres’ story of kinship was produced by the Digital Engagement team. Watch the video here.

Shirley Torres '03 was 23 years old when she first walked through the doors of Homeboy Industries. A newly minted UCLA graduate with a background in counseling and a heart rooted in her South Central, Los Angeles upbringing, she thought she was stepping into just another job. Twenty-two years later, Torres is now the co-CEO of the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and reentry program — and she calls the work her life’s purpose.

Torres grew up in a large, tightly knit family where survival often meant relying on neighbors, faith, and kinship. Her grandmother’s home, at the corner of 29th and Central Avenue, was the anchor of that community. She describes it as “the house where the invitation was always, ‘come as you are.’” That open-door welcome, even when her grandmother had little to give, shaped the way Torres now leads Homeboy — with a commitment to radical kinship, unconditional love, and the belief that healing is possible for everyone.

“Our success, our healing, and our survival — it’s all connected” Torres said.

From Campus to Community

Torres began her higher education journey at Mt. San Antonio College before transferring to UCLA, where she studied education and sociology. At UCLA, she found a home in the Academic Advancement Program (AAP) and developed life-long friendships. Later she became a mentor for other transfer students, many of whom were also the first in their families to attend college. Torres credits the rigor and excellence demanded at UCLA, through professors and mentors like Drs. Kris Gutiérrez and Eric Avila, for nurturing her innate curiosity to imagine that another world is possible, and for cultivating her courage to disrupt the status quo.

But even as she pursued academia — once envisioning a Ph.D. and a career as a professor — Torres felt drawn back to the kind of community-based work that had shaped her childhood. She realized that success could not only be defined by degrees or titles, but by living in alignment with her values. That realization eventually led her to Homeboy.

A Movement Rooted in Love

Founded by Father Gregory Boyle in 1988, Homeboy Industries provides job training, mental health support, education, and a second chance to thousands each year. For Torres, its mission is clear: healing must come before everything else.

“The most important job here is an inside job,” she explained. “We want to help people to heal from trauma before anything else. Historically, healing hasn’t been afforded to the poor and marginalized.”

Torres credits the many years of walking alongside Father Greg and former gang members, learning from their courage and being shaped by their resiliency, for the leader she is today.

Under her leadership, Homeboy has expanded to include a continuum of care, from transitional housing to a forthcoming behavioral health campus in Hollywood. Projects like Hope Village are designed to meet people at the crossroads of incarceration and opportunity, offering sanctuary alongside skills.

Torres often reminds her team that their most important job is to “pay attention to the swing of the door.” Their role is to check the pulse rather than the box. “In 22 years, I’ve interviewed thousands of gang members. Most of them joined between the ages of 9 and 12,” she said. “Hopeful kids don’t join gangs.” That belief fuels her mission to disrupt cycles of trauma and incarceration, and to replace them with systems of care and opportunity.

Leading with Kinship

Today, Torres co-leads Homeboy Industries alongside co-CEO Steve Delgado. Together, they lead a team of over 300 staff who are responsible for receiving 10,000 clients each year and they employ 500 trainees in 13 social enterprises as part of their innovative 18-month work training program. They are proud to say that 70% of Homeboy’s staff were once clients. For Torres, these are not just statistics — they’re proof of Homeboy’s transformative model.

“People here didn’t always believe in themselves,” she said. “Now they’re leading this place. It’s a full-circle moment.”

That full-circle impact begins with the trainee program — the first entry point for those who walk through Homeboy’s doors. Torres often reminds Homeboy trainees that everything they need to succeed, they were already born with. Over the course of their training that first leap of faith become fact. She frequently receives messages from program alumni who are now taking their kids to college, becoming homeowners or launching businesses — they are living their wildest dreams. Earlier this year, Homeboy celebrated their largest graduating class with more than 100 graduates who completed vocational programs, high school, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. This class includes two newly minted UCLA alumni.

A Global Mission

As Homeboy grows from a local nonprofit into a global movement, Torres remains grounded in the lessons of her grandmother’s porch and Father Greg: everyone deserves to be seen, welcomed, and loved.

“We belong to each other,” she said. “And we’re going to keep going forward — puro pa’lante.”

With projects like Hope Village, a transitional housing initiative for formerly incarcerated individuals, along with a growing global network of partner organizations, Torres sees Homeboy as a model for how communities can heal together. “Hope has an address,” she said. “And there is no ‘us and them’ — just us.”

Diversity Digest

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Bruin Family Connect

Dear Bruin Parents and Families,

My name is Steve Lurie, and I am the inaugural Associate Vice Chancellor, leading UCLA’s new office of Campus and Community Safety. The Bruin Family Connect Newsletter has offered me the opportunity to introduce myself and my teams, share our philosophy on a holistic approach to safety on campus, and discuss our goals for the future.

I am, in my heart, a Bruin for life. I graduated from UCLA with a BA in cultural anthropology in 1994, and went on to a 28-year career with the Los Angeles Police Department. During those years, I attended Loyola Law School and was admitted to the California Bar in 2002. My police career took me to all corners of Los Angeles, from South Los Angeles to Bel Air, from the San Fernando Valley to San Pedro. I was fortunate to have a broad, varied, and enriching leadership journey, culminating at the rank of Commander, where I led police service delivery on the west side of Los Angeles. I was in this role when the conflict in the Middle East led to nationwide protests and demonstrations, including on our UCLA campus, and was called upon to lead the law enforcement response to address the tremendous campus safety issues these presented

As I drove away from campus after coordinating the removal of the Royce quad encampment, I told myself that if there was ever a possibility – any chance – that I could help enhance public safety at my beloved UCLA, I would jump at the opportunity. And then I returned to Los Angeles and continued my LAPD journey.

As UCLA recovered from the fallout from the encampment and related activities, it became clear that an improved, streamlined public safety apparatus was urgently needed. The Office of Campus and Community Safety was created in late 2024. I was humbled and honored when, in February 2025, Chancellor Julio Frenk offered me the leadership of this entrepreneurial, first-in-the-nation effort. I report directly to Chancellor Frenk, and the teams that keep UCLA safe report directly to me. This streamlined decision making has already yielded benefits to our community.

Chancellor Frenk has described campus safety as his meta-priority. Bruins cannot excel in the classroom, the operating room, the laboratory, on the field of sport if they are not safe. It is my charge to coordinate the many teams that work to provide this blanket of safety. At UCLA, this means so much more than the absence of crime. In fact, we have a campus that is historically – and remains - extremely safe in the traditional sense. The Office of Campus and Community Safety seeks to move well beyond the basics. We aim to have all in our Bruin community feel safe, and have the intellectual and emotional freedom to do their critical work.

To keep our community safe, we rely on two exemplary organizations. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) works to prevent and prepare for major events and crises on campus. Our campus has faced floods, wildfires, and earthquakes. We regularly welcome tens of thousands of fans to Pauley Pavilion, and will soon host the world’s athletes for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic games. Emergency managers in our office provide training and planning expertise to every community member so UCLA can be ready. When the inevitable does occur, OEM activates and manages our Emergency Operations Center, where UCLA coordinates response activities in order to return to status quo as soon as possible.

The UCLA Police Department is a state-certified full-service police agency providing 24/7 patrol and emergency response to Bruins throughout Southern California. When a community member dials 9-1-1 from campus or from a UCLA property near campus, our own team of professional communications operators answers their call and dispatches our UCLA officers to help. This system ensures that the officers can quickly respond to our community’s call for help and are specially trained and have a deep understanding of the unique UCLA culture. The UCLA Police Department also manages several other safety programs, often dispatching Public Safety Aides or student Community Service Officers to handle non-emergency calls for service.

The synergy between these entities consistently leads to UCLA being better prepared to respond to a variety of emergencies, having more rapid response times, and higher community satisfaction with public safety than in the broader LA community.

In closing, I would like to share some important campus safety resources with each of you:

Bruin Alerts:

To receive emergency updates identical to those your student or family member does while on campus, please join our Bruin Alert system by texting “Bruinalert” to 888-777. These alerts, while rare, offer emergency notifications and instructions to community members.

Bruin Safe Online:

The Bruin Safe Online website, at bso.ucla.edu, offers as 24/7 safety information portal. When a major event potentially effects UCLA, the world is watching. This can often lead to rumors, incorrect social media posts, and other inaccurate news. Please use Bruin Safe Online as a place to access facts about safety on campus.

Bruin Safe App:

The Bruin Safe App, available for iOS and Android, is an information resource intended for all Bruins to learn more about services available to them. It also has a location sharing feature and the ability to summon emergency responders in real time. All Bruins should have this app available on their mobile devices.

UCPD Instragram:

Our community consumes so much of its important information from social media, and we aim to be present in that space as well. Please follow UCPD on social media to stay in touch with campus safety events, emergencies, and other critical information.

I am thankful and full of optimism as I return home to UCLA. I, and the OCCS family, will continue to work 24/7 as we innovate and improve. We are dedicated to a safe UCLA, where Bruins live, work and play in an environment that supports excellence and provides a campus, and a broader community, where they are safe, they feel safe, and they can continue to thrive.

Best regards and Go Bruins!

story of impact: how one alum is helping Bruins find peace - Sharon Chen ’06

In the middle of UCLA’s bustling campus, where solitude is scarce and silence even more so, Sharon Chen ’06 is offering students a rare commodity: the freedom to pause. Her solution is simple: a private, sound-dampended pod where students can step away from noise and simply be alone.

Chen, a Business Economics alumna, didn’t come to this work from a boardroom brainstorm. As a teenager, she watched a younger sister struggle with depression—pain that was easy to hide and hard to name. “She hid it so well,” Chen says. That missed chance to help became the backbone of her work.

After UCLA, Chen dove into investment banking, chasing what she calls the “expected track.” She eventually took a leap into entrepreneurship, launching a reality television show designed to help startup founders pitch their ideas. The project never made it past development. It failed…and it failed publicly. “It hit me hard,” she said. “I couldn’t even talk about it for years.”

Still, this experience shifted something within her. After what she candidly refers to as a “massive flop,” Chen left Los Angeles and relocated to Shanghai, China where she rebuilt a career in private equity focused on cross-border real estate.

Along the way, her definition of success shifted. “I’m a really good number two,” she says with the type of humility that comes from years of experience. In her view, success is about facilitating others' realization of their vision. That mindset eventually guided her toward reimagining how campuses make space for mental well-being.

“Emotional pain isn’t always visible,” Chen notes. “If you break your arm, people can see it. With mental health, it’s easy to hide.” For students, the constant hum of activity and performance leaves little room to breathe, let alone ask for privacy. Peace Pods create a refuge to think, reflect, meditate – or simply be – without the world encroaching.

How Peace Pods Work

App booking + smart access: Students reserve a pod in the mobile app; a smart lock grants entry at the reservation time.
Sound-dampened privacy: Designed to reduce external noise for quiet reflection or confidential conversations.
Real-time availability: The app shows open times and helps minimize wait.

UCLA has launched six Peace Pods on the main campus, with early placements including the UCLA Career Center. Additional campus locations are being coordinated with student-facing services. Chen’s vision extends beyond Westwood: Peace is exploring pods in coworking spaces, corporate offices, and public venues. The team is also evaluating AI-assisted features to make reservations faster and more accessible, with a long-term goal of on-demand privacy that doesn’t require membership or friction.

For Chen, Peace Pods are more than hardware. They’re a way to notice the struggles we don’t always see—and to offer practical dignity in response. “Once a Bruin, always a Bruin.” With Peace Pods, Chen is making sure every Bruin has space to simply be.

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Learn more or support the initiative at peacepod.com. Inquiries about campus partners and sponsorships can be directed through the site’s contact page, or directly to Sharon Chen at sharon@peacepod.com.

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