Gold Shield Alumnae
Gold Shield is an honorary organization of distinguished UCLA alumnae who are committed to advancing the university through philanthropy, mentorship, and service. Since 1936, our members have played a pivotal role in supporting students, recognizing faculty excellence, and preserving UCLA’s rich academic legacy.
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Connect with us
For more information about Gold Shield and its programs, please reach out.
Volunteer with us
Gold Shield is a selective, honorary organization composed of approximately 150 distinguished UCLA alumnae. Our members are accomplished leaders and volunteers; women who bring passion, initiative, and a deep commitment to supporting UCLA.
Support us
Since 1936, Gold Shield’s members have played a vital role in advancing the university’s mission and uplifting the people who make it great. We invest in people—with a belief that lasting impact begins with individual opportunity, support, and recognition.
our story
Gold Shield is an honorary organization of UCLA alumnae who are distinguished leaders, dedicated to making meaningful contributions to the university. While membership begins as a commitment to UCLA, it quickly becomes something more — a connection to a dynamic network of accomplished women who inspire and support one another.
Our work reflects values that guide both our internal culture and our external impact:
Innovation – Striving for excellence and relevance through collaboration and forward-thinking service
Inclusion – Building a welcoming, diverse, and respectful community
Optimism – Approaching challenges with positivity and purpose
Integrity – Acting with honor, transparency, and trust
Friendship – Nurturing connections that span generations
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contact us
For General Inquiries
Anne-Marie Sparatu
President, Gold Shield
amspataru@gmail.com
faculty prize
Michelle DeBonis
Faculty Prize Chair
facultyprize@gmail.com
giving/support
scholarship and support
Our Impact and Why It Matters
Since 1936, Gold Shield’s members have played a vital role in advancing the university’s mission and uplifting the people who make it great. We invest in people—with a belief that lasting impact begins with individual opportunity, support, and recognition.
Investing in the Next Generation
Gold Shield provides meaningful financial and personal support to UCLA students, helping to ease the burdens of higher education and create pathways to success. Our programs include:
- Undergraduate Scholarships – Supporting students across disciplines with financial awards that make a real difference
- Stipends for Ethnic Studies Summer Internships – Enabling students to gain real-world experience while advancing equity and cultural understanding
- Graduate Fellowships in Ethnic Studies – Encouraging academic leadership in areas that deepen UCLA’s inclusive excellence
- Personalized Mentorship – Connecting students with accomplished alumnae for guidance, support, and inspiration
Together, these initiatives help Bruins thrive — academically, professionally, and personally.
Recognizing Faculty Excellence
The Gold Shield Faculty Prize honors exceptional mid-career faculty members who shape the UCLA experience through inspired teaching and academic leadership. This $30,000 award is one of the most prestigious campus-wide recognitions, alternating annually between North and South Campus to ensure a wide-ranging impact across fields of study.
A Tradition of Generosity, A Commitment to the Future
Our impact is not only measured in dollars, it’s reflected in the lives we help shape, the communities we strengthen, and the university we continue to champion. With your help, Gold Shield can continue to help scholars achieve their dream… and invest in our future.
Gold Shield Tribute Program
Gold Shield welcomes donations at any time to honor friends, colleagues, and family for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, “just because,” to say “Congratulations” or “Thank you,” or as a memorial. Your donation will help us fund future scholarships.