Story Of Categories: Purpose

Sam didn’t just study at UCLA. He showed up and took advantage of every connection possible. UCLA gave Sam the space to explore, take risks, and find out what he was actually built for. Learn more about Sam and other Bruin stories at alumni.ucla.edu/storyof/

You’ve seen him on The Pitt. You’ve heard him on stage with Rooney. But did you know he’s actually a practicing nurse? UCLA alum Ned Brower’s career has never followed one path. And that’s exactly the point. A special thank you to the UCLA Joe C. Wen School of Nursing for helping create this story…

Leslie Gilbert-Lurie’s story may have started at UCLA, but that was only the catalyst. As an accomplished attorney, author, and advocate, her dynamic career has reshaped education, challenged legal boundaries, and driven social progress. As a daughter of a Holocaust survivor, Leslie’s deep understanding of life’s fragility has fueled her unwavering commitment to creating meaningful…

From UCLA to leading national efforts in education, Peter Taylor (Bruin story since ’80) has dedicated his career to expanding opportunity, fostering equity, and driving meaningful change. As the former President of ECMC Foundation, he led over $130 million in investments to improve college success and career readiness for underserved students. His purpose-driven leadership continues…

Charlie Woo (Bruin story since B.A. ’72, M.S. ’75) is a changemaker whose journey from an immigrant student to a business leader has transformed communities. Woo emigrated from Hong Kong to study physics, overcoming challenges as a student with a disability. In 1989, Charlie and his brother Peter founded Megatoys, a global toy manufacturing company…

For Mary Osako (Bruin story since ’96), UCLA was more than just a school; it was her dream. She became a first-generation college student determined to make the most of this opportunity. When her family faced a crisis during her junior year, UCLA’s supportive community stepped in to help her stay on track—an experience she…

Charlie Kratus, a second-year Business Economics major and student leader, is a digital storyteller who has journeyed from creating high school announcements to building one of the most engaging UCLA-inspired social media platforms. His work is centered around connection, creativity, and giving back. As the creator of Good Morning UCLA, Charlie highlights student organizations, campus…

Genesis Gutierrez is an entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and proud UCLA alum committed to creating safe and empowering spaces for women. Originally from Venezuela, she immigrated to the U.S. at the age of seven and became undocumented at thirteen. This journey shaped her deep understanding of resilience, self-worth, and community. While pursuing a degree in…

Dana Ware (Bruin story since ’07), a renowned Chicana creative director and pioneer in immersive media, believes that storytelling can be a powerful force for healing and connection. Her beliefs and life-changing experiences have shaped her commitment to creating spaces where people can reflect, feel seen, and share their truths. This commitment to shared storytelling…

Alum Dean Florez Has Always Asked the Hard Questions—Even When No One Else Would As a transfer student from the Central Valley, Dean Florez (Bruin story since ’87) found his political voice at UCLA—one built on truth-telling, discomfort, and a lifelong commitment to speaking up for the overlooked. Senator Dean Florez’s story begins in the…