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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.

Bruin Promise Interviews - DeShaun Foster

eShaun Foster '13 is one of the most prolific running backs in UCLA Football history. He now serves as associate head coach, running backs for the Bruins. Hear his story and how the Bruin Promise looks to help other UCLA alumni for years to come.

The Bruin Promise is an affirmation that UCLA will provide alumni an accessible, campus-driven gateway to lifelong learning in an ever-changing and evolving world.

Explore The Bruin Promise

Alumnae Conference - Dare to Soar

ruins are invited to turn dreams into action at the UCLA Alumnae Conference: Dare to Soar, a place to bring more purpose into your work, develop your goals and build success. The one-day event taking place on Sunday, March 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PDT, will create an empowered network of women supporting each other and giving back to their communities. This year, we are excited to return to campus to experience the unrivaled discovery, networking, professional development and personal growth that can only happen at UCLA. The hybrid format will bring alumnae together from around the world via an interactive webinar.

Alumnae will be warmly welcomed back to the James West Alumni Center by Julie Sina, Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs and COO of The UCLA Foundation.

Inspiring strategist, impact maker and entrepreneur Christine Simmons ’98 will be our keynote speaker. Christine will share her vision for embracing an individual’s unique energy to meet their potential. A former UCLA Alumni Association president and regent, she is a sought-after speaker who has worked with Fortune 500 corporations and multi-million dollar companies. She leads the strategic consulting firm Alis Volat Propriis, she who flies with her own wings, and has started a clothing and merchandise line, Unapologetically (TM) Christine.

“Living unapologetically. Being bold, attacking life’s challenges in extraordinary fashion and loving oneself - flaws and all!”
Christine Simmons ’98

The day’s engaging panels — Women in Politics, Women in Business and Women in Health & Wellness — will feature conversations among women actively sharing their journeys with all the twists and turns. Learn from business owners, entrepreneurs and leaders as they discuss the issues that matter most to women, including leadership, work/life balance and career growth.

Attendees can take part in a tasting of exceptional wines made by Black women from South Africa and hosted by Roots & Vines Wine founder and CEO Jennifer White ’97, M.P.P. ’06. Throughout the day, explore or participate in the Entrepreneur Marketplace, featuring Bruin-owned businesses ready to serve your needs. Alumnae are also invited to contribute to our Alumni Affairs professional clothing drive. The Career Closet is open to all UCLA community members, including students and alumni. Even if you aren’t able to attend, we welcome all forms of professional clothing and are happy to receive a shipment.

Shipments can be sent to:

c/o Sandy Nguyen, UCLA Alumni
James West Alumni Center
325 Westwood Plaza
Los Angeles, CA 90095

The day’s closing speaker, UCLA Women’s Head Basketball Coach Cori Close, M.Ed. ʼ95, will leave us uplifted and inspired. Coach Close is in her 12th season at the head of the No. 16-ranked Bruin team. She gives players a transformational experience through basketball that equips them for the rest of their lives.

“The only two things that will truly be with you for the rest of your life from this experience are who you become and whom you impact.”
– Coach Cori Close, M.Ed. ʼ95

We look forward to welcoming you in person or online for a fulfilling and motivational day of community at the UCLA Alumnae Conference: Dare to Soar. Come back to UCLA’s beautiful campus and join with other alumnae to empower possibilities as you develop your purpose while creating positive change.

Cost: $45 In Person, $10 Virtual

UCLA Alumnae Conference Info

UCLA Alumni Affairs celebrates women, non-binary and transgender people of all ages and backgrounds and welcomes everyone and anyone interested in sharing and learning from one another.

Introducing the Bruin Promise

iat lux — let there be light — the motto of the University of California symbolizing its role in lighting the way in the pursuit of knowledge, creativity and truth. To this end, UCLA is shining a light on its enduring presence in the lives of alumni, enlightening Bruins through every stage of life. A new portal has been created that provides you with unlimited access to UCLA’s vast resources and offerings. Introducing the Bruin Promise.

The Bruin Promise is…

A Philosophy

The idea was conceived by UCLA Chancellor Gene Block years ago, inspired by a colleague who told him about a newly formed automobile company that offered a lifetime warranty. He thought, “Why don’t we offer alumni a lifetime warranty? Even after you graduate, we’ll be with you forever.”

The old adage “Once a Bruin, Always a Bruin” is taken a step further, promising that educational opportunities available to students will also be made available to alumni.

For Ann Wang ʼ13, president of the UCLA Alumni Association, it means that “learning both in the classroom and out of the classroom doesn't stop when you graduate, but rather continues in every stage of your life. That's the Bruin Promise, that we as UCLA and as the Alumni Association are here for you.”

A Hub for Experiences

The Bruin Promise website serves as repository for hundreds of UCLA experiences: events, lectures, research, media, publications, etc. It holds a varied and dynamic trove of content from UCLA departments, centers and institutes, which then serve as pathways to take deeper dives into specific subject matters ranging from climate science to cancer research to music innovation and much more.

The site allows you to choose your own adventure beginning with four overarching categories: Arts & Culture, Career & Professional Development, Health & Wellness and Lifelong Learning. Search filters also allow you to sort through colleges and organizations, content types or use a keyword search. The dynamic functionality of the site means that each visit features a different slate of experiences, exposing you to more of UCLA’s diverse offerings.

A Bridge

Every worthwhile partnership is mutually beneficial. This two-way bridge extends educational access to alumni, while strengthening the connection and involvement of alumni to the UCLA community. When alumni are engaged with UCLA, they bring unique advantages, including recruiting students, serving on volunteer boards, connecting academia with industry or becoming mentors to younger Bruins. The contributions of alumni are innumerable.

Likewise, lifelong access to UCLA’s educational resources and opportunities is a tremendous benefit for those wishing to take advantage. Acquire more education and training to advance your career interests. Build on your professional network and generate business leads. Learn the latest research in child psychology or the aging process as you navigate caring for young or elderly dependents. The possibilities are endless when a strong bond is built between alumni and its alma mater.

A Starting Point

This is phase I, a prototype, an unfinished product. The purpose of launching it now is to give Bruins a chance to explore it, test it, and contribute ideas and feedback towards improving it. Like any new initiative, the idea of the Bruin Promise has been set into motion with a framework, a platform, a content base and search functionality; however, it is still a ways from the ideal – an ideal that is still being defined.

As you navigate the site, consider the following:

Did you find the content relevant to your needs or interests? What’s missing?
Is it easy to find what you were searching for? Is the navigation intuitive?
Does the layout appeal to you? Do you prefer a curated presentation of limited content or a large breadth of content laid out that can be sorted and filtered?

Any and all feedback is welcome and will be considered. You are a stakeholder in the Bruin Promise and the next steps in its evolution will be determined by your user experience. Submit your thoughts to UCLAbruinpromise@alumni.ucla.edu.

A Game-Changer

“We’re on the cutting edge of discovery every day at UCLA,” says President Ann Wang. “In our commitment to lifelong learning, alumni will now have access to tap into the University’s knowledge from the certificate level to exciting faculty research. Not a lot of universities are cracking that code.”

While the Bruin Promise is in its infancy, imagine the possibilities when it matures into full adulthood. As knowledge builds upon previous knowledge, the platform will continue to grow and evolve and strive for its ideal: a one-stop shop to feed your curiosity and lead you to greater heights personally and professionally. But its success requires your active engagement, your willingness to explore and respond. Poet William Butler Yeats said, “Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire.” So with this new promise, let there be light.

Enter The Bruin Promise

Tell Us What You Think

Best of Connect 2022

February Edition

Save up to $25,000 on residency at The Watermark at Westwood Village, an award-winning senior living community steps from campus. Also covered is your Alumni Association Sustaining Donor contribution!

March Edition

Which has better food - North Campus or South Campus? In this second helping of the Campus Eats series, we highlighted the dining options at LuValle, Anderson, Court of Sciences, Medical Centers and more. See what's good, what's changed and what's no longer open for business.

December Edition

UCLA has a rich history of producing professional athletes who work for a variety of sports teams. In this issue, we’re featured nine recent graduates who are currently performing for professional cheerleading and dance teams in both the NFL and NBA. Be sure to cheer for these Bruins when you spot them at the game!

March Edition

Amy Rueda is a 25-year veteran of executive search and has placed CEOs and C-suite executives across multiple industries. In this new series she offered her expert career advice to those seeking to level up. In this issue, she described the DNA of the ideal candidate.

September Edition

Our Bruin-Owned Businesses series continued with a feature on art galleries and collectives which showcased the classic and contemporary works of both Bruins and non-Bruins alike, as well as that of their founders. Support the arts and Bruin entrepreneurship by planning a visit or following them on social media to see their current and upcoming exhibitions.

July/August Edition

The slider overlays an aerial view of South Campus in 1950 to the same area today. Test your knowledge on what sits in the locations where the Greek amphitheater, the orchards and the reservoir used to be. Then check Show Labels to reveal the answers.

November Edition

From the U.S. House of Representatives to local school boards, scores of Bruin candidates ran in various national, state and municipal races in the general election on Nov. 8. See the diverse pool of UCLA alumni (including one current student) who were on the ballot. While this was not an endorsement of any candidates or political parties, it was a call for all Bruins to make their voices heard and VOTE!

June Edition

As the world opens up, the once distant dream of traveling is closer to becoming a reality. Fortunately, UCLA Alumni Travel has expert tour professionals who can aid you with worry-free travel from beginning to end. On most tours you’ll be guided by a UCLA professor, stay in 4- to 5-star accommodations and, best of all, see the world with like-minded, friendly Bruins, where your shared experience lends itself to creating new memories and lasting friendships. Explore our 2022 tours!

July/August Edition

(Tied for No. 1) Now is a great time to come out and enjoy a delicious meal with good company, while helping a Bruin business. In a sequel to the restaurants installment of the popular Bruin-Owned Businesses series, we’re once again tantalizing you with the mouth-watering dishes being served up by fellow alumni. Bon appétit!

January Edition

(Tied for No. 1) Are you cool enough to know what block party, birding and UZLA all mean? Check out this growing glossary of campus slang and see what the young Bruins are saying these days. Perhaps you'll recognize some throwback lingo from your time in Westwood.

Bruin-Owned Businesses: Gift Ideas 2

hat better way to fulfill your holiday shopping needs than with unique gifts from these Bruin-owned businesses? Explore what they have to offer, whether online or in-store, and find those perfect Bruin-inspired presents for family and friends.

Rabbit Air

Vice President of Business Development: Edwin Cheung ʼ94

Location: 125 N Raymond Ave., Suite 308, Pasadena, CA 911031

Phone: 888-866-8862

Website: https://rabbitair.com/ucla

Social: @rabbitair

About:

Founded in 2004, our Los Angeles-based company has dedicated its time, energy and resources to perfecting a product that improves quality of life: the air purifier. Our dedication to air purification has led us to become one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S.; we have been ranked as such from 2009 to 2022 by Inc. magazine.

Review:

“My husband is allergic to EVERYTHING! He takes 10-12 allergy pills daily, has been to several doctors, the whole nine yards. So, last resort, I purchased this air purifier, put it in our family room...and within hours he could really tell the difference…so I purchased another one for our bedroom. The first night was the first time in many years that he slept without pills and could breathe through his nose now; he takes no more than 2 allergy pills daily. I wish we got this years ago.” - Kathy B.

Eliqs

Co-Founders: Max Berg, MBA ʼ19, and Dave Goldman

Location: Gardena, California

Phone: 904-414-3643

Website: https://www.eliqs.com

Email: hello@eliqs.com

Social: @shopEliqs

About:

Eliqs enables the creation of personalized, custom-branded beverages for any and all occasions! Select from our pre-set templates that you can personalize or create a custom design by partnering with our in-house professional design team. Select a beverage from our curated list of craft offerings (beer, wine, hard seltzer, water). Then sit back and relax as we deliver your custom cans directly to you!

Review:

“Such an awesome gift! I've ordered a couple of times from Eliqs, both for birthday gifts. Both of the recipients loved it and I got so many compliments from others! These are such a unique and thoughtful gift for a beer lover in your life. Love that they also send you previews and updates about your order and the shipping is pretty fast as well. Will definitely order again!” – Chanel R.

The Honest Company

Co-Founders: Brian Sung Lee, J.D. ʼ96, and Christopher Gavigan, M.A. ʼ04

Website: https://www.honest.com/

Phone: 888-862-8818

Email: support@thehonestcompany.com

Social: @honest

About:

We’re a wellness brand empowering people to live happy, healthy lives. And we’re also people, just like you. When our founder, Jessica Alba, couldn’t find one brand to trust for all her everyday needs, she had to create it. And she knew that there had to be others out there looking for safe products, simple solutions and clear information about their choices, just like her. If you want trusted, effective products that work for your family, your home and yourself, you’re Honest, too.

Review:

“I have sensitive skin that gets oily easily. I’m always hesitant to order online. Due to COVID I’ve received several emails about how they are behind, which I wasn’t in a huge hurry anyways. But I still received my package in a timely manner. The products ordered and used were Prime + Perfect Mask, hydra gel and magic gel to milk. I already had the vitamin C serum and Everyday Radiance. My skin hasn’t felt this smooth and glowy in a long time. Love, love, love these products.” - Tori S.

Lollaland

Founders: Mark Lim, MBA ʼ08, and Hanna Lim, M.Ed. ʼ05

Location: 1825 Peck Road, Monrovia, CA 91016

Phone: 310-776-5655

Website: https://lollaland.com/

Email: hello@lollaland.com

Social: @lollalandusa

About:

Lollaland products were created by parents dedicated to providing safe, stylish and smart products for children and their families. Our award-winning products are premium quality, beautifully packaged and ready to gift. Lollaland is proudly funded by Mark Cuban and Robert Herjavec through ABC's hit show, “Shark Tank!”

Review:

“These cups are great. 1. The straw is hidden; I don’t understand the ones where the straw stays up, especially during a pandemic. 2. Easy to disassemble and throw in the dishwasher—I’ve washed mine dozens of times and no fading or issues. 3. Durable—my tot has literally thrown one down a flight of stairs and no cracking. 4. Sure it is not leak proof but it also doesn’t take a ton of pressure to suck up liquid. It doesn’t just pour out either; my tot will literally hold the bottle upside down and shake it and several drops may come out. 5. Fun colors. 6. Great customer service. I can’t rave about these cups enough. I have one in every color.” - Mr. P.

Mana Life Energy

Founder: Dylan Price ʼ14

Website: https://manalifeenergy.com

Social: @manalifeenergy

About:

Our herbal proprietary blend replenishes your energy, mental clarity and focus without the crash or jittery feeling. Mana contains no artificial ingredients, and was specifically designed for you, whether you are an athlete, parent, student or a person who simply needs a boost of energy throughout the day.

Review:

“MANA is great! I have used it for a while now and I have found it to be better than coffee or energy drinks. It has all-natural ingredients that you can look up and are not just consuming random lab-engineered ingredients. If you are looking for a pre-workout intense supplement this is not it. It’s a subtle energy you likely won’t really notice but you no longer feel tired or like falling asleep. I often get tired driving while commuting after a long day and about 10 minutes after taking MANA you likely won’t even realize it but you just won’t be tired anymore. I have also taken it before the gym and it gives you a pump once you get going, without the jitters from a pre-workout.” - Alex L.

Rosen Skincare

Founder and CEO: Jamika Martin ʼ18

Locations: Various

Website: https://www.rosenskincare.com

Email: hi@rosenskincare.com

Social: @rosenskincare

About:

We're creating the next generation of breakout care. Traditional breakout solutions have often left diverse skin types and concerns out of the conversation, but we're here to change that. Our routines use clean-ical ingredients to focus on the prevention and repair of hyperpigmentation and breakouts in the acne aisle. All of our products and routines are developed through the lens of women of color, to ensure the diverse concerns we deal with are addressed in the acne aisle.

Review:

“I love the scent of the Super Smoothie Cleanser. It wasn’t too strong but did have a slightly sweet citrusy scent. It’s made with strawberry powder which helped to gently exfoliate my skin and provided a nice gentle cleanse. My skin was left feeling smooth after using it. The best part is that it didn’t dry out my skin. This is the only product that I finished during the 30 days and I was quite sad when I ran out. I can definitely see myself purchasing this product in the future.” – LaTayia B. (SoDazzlingBlog.com)

Caffé Luxxe

Co-Founder: Gary Chau ʼ90

Locations: Various in Southern California

Phone: 310-394-2222

Website: https://www.caffeluxxe.com

Email: hello@caffeeluxxe.com

Social: @caffeluxxe

About:

Established in 2006, Caffe Luxxe was the first cafe in Los Angeles to champion a move towards hand-crafted artisanal espresso and brewed coffee. Our dedication to serving the best individually crafted beverages has helped LA drinkers discover what fine coffees can taste like, earning us numerous accolades by customers and journalists alike. Hand crafting every single drink is our daily passion, and we strive to make each drink better than the last.

Reviews:

“Being Italian, coffee, lattes and expresso are my primary beverage and a variety of comfort food. Finding myself on Sunset Boulevard in the Pacific Palisades I noticed up ahead a new coffee shop, Caffe Luxe. They claim their coffee is "an artisanal expression". Well, I went for an expression and ordered an Americano. It was delicious! Great aroma, body, fragrance, smooth and not bitter. There was no sharp burnt after taste that so many expresso roasters produce. For a moment, I was transported to my favorite cafe in Rome. If you are a real coffee lover, you’ve got to try this brand. They are hitting home runs. I can't wait until my next fix!” – Vincent G.

MATTEO PARFUMS

Founder: Matthew Sánchez ʼ17

Website: https://www.matteoparfums.com

Email: help@matteoparfums.com

Social: @matteoparfums

About:

Nicknamed “Matteo,” I’m a Southern California native motivated to create products with purpose and establish a legacy. Self-taught in perfumery then a perfumer's apprentice, in October 2017, I became America's youngest Black male perfumer and youngest Latino perfumer. In my last year at UCLA, I knew I wanted to find ways to connect with others while fulfilling my entrepreneurial desires. I made full use of the fact that of all five senses, our sense of smell has the strongest connection to our memories and emotions. Therefore, I knew I could access peoples' lives through the power of scent and storytelling. This is my vision and desire for MATTEO PARFUMS: to influence the scent culture and multiple industries, inspire confidence and fellow visionaries, and immerse people into the global and imaginative world we live in.

Review:

“The visuals tricked my mind into thinking I was going to dive into relaxing light green waters. Quite the contrary, I am submerged in orange light and swirled around in a circle of spicy fire. A bright orange sun turns into a blood-red orange, spiked with cinnamon rays, making it even hotter as minutes pass. The juiciness of the orange is short-lived and it rapidly dries to a clove-spiked orange peel warmed on a radiator. Not long after, the leathery saffron comes into play, the spices bloom with sharp peppery edges and all slowly melt into a sweet, ambery, rich, wooden texture. Then hours pass and in the scent lingering on my skin, a deep, enveloping cinnamon is still the main character. Reasonably priced [at] $95, it’s the debut fragrance of MATTEO PARFUMS. If you want a cool–but–warm “urban lumberjack”, to embrace you in a thick cinnamon hug, give Celadawn a try.” – Nicoleta Tomsa (Senior Editor for ÇaFleureBon)

Tequila Cabal

Partner and CFO: Benjamin Gordon, MBA ʼ19

Locations: Various

Website: https://www.tequilacabal.com

Email: framers@mac.com

Social: @tequilacabal

About:

Tequila Cabal is a multi-award-winning tequila headquartered in Los Angeles, with roots tracing back to 1911. The word Cabal is rooted in the Spanish word for gentleman, caballero, which compels the idea that one must aspire to their full potential. The inspiration behind the horsehead bottle design is derived from the Charreria and horse culture in Jalisco. This ties into the very essence of Jalicense culture. We raise our horses and agave much like we raise ourselves, nurturing from a young age with passionate resolve to become both a noble steed and noble in spirit. It is our belief that the spirit in your glass should only be matched by the spirit of your company.

Review:

“Tequila Cabal is a perfect example of excellence expressed in liquid form. I judge any tequila by its blanco, the purest manifestation of this spirit. Only if the blanco offers a superior experience do I explore the reposado and añejo. I did indeed explore the aged Cabal offerings because the blanco was extraordinary, easily one of the finest tequilas I have ever tasted. And then things only got better from that very high standard, because the reposado, añejo and extra-añejo were pure pleasure. This is an extraordinary tequila.” Jeff S.

Gem Surprise Box

Co-Founders: Steve Ibbotson ʼ15 and Christine Lopez ʼ15

Location: Fallbrook, California

Phone: 661-236-7706

Website: https://www.gemsurprise.com

Email: Hello@GemSurprise.com

Social: @gemsurprisebox

About:

Gem Surprise Box is a gemstone and mineral subscription service, founded by Gemological Institute of America and UCLA alumni, that has a strong focus on STEM education for both adults and children with the goal of introducing the world to the science of mineralogy, sparking interest in the geosciences and sharing the wonders of our natural world one box at a time. We offer monthly memberships, specialty boxes and unique gifts for everyone. Every Gem Surprise Box is packaged with care in our signature black sustainably sourced gift box and tied with a black satin bow. All of our gemstones and minerals include mineral graphic cards with information on each new item with fun facts about how it formed, identifying characteristics, gemological notes of interest, and information on how people interact with that material.

Review:

“It’s like Christmas every month.” – Doug H.

Shef

Founder: Joey Grassia ʼ09

Website: https://shef.com/

Phone: 415-825-7433

Email: support@shef.com

Social: @ordershef

About:

At Shef, we’re rebuilding the food system from scratch, redefining who can participate in the food economy, and returning personal connection to the making, eating and sharing of food. We are an online marketplace for local, food safety-certified cooks to connect with customers in their community and earn a meaningful income selling homemade dishes. Homemade is the aroma of your childhood kitchen, the laughter around a family table, the taste of locally sourced produce; it is memories, nostalgia and tradition. It is building bridges between cultures and people that make us whole. More than anything, the power of homemade food comes from the love and care of those who make it, all opening up their hearts to provide the gift of a homemade meal to you.

Review:

“I just ate this a few minutes ago and it changed my life. It's as good as going to your Pakistani aunty's house for dinner. Super traditional dumplings that remind me of my grandma's.

I am really picky about my food and any purchase. I am 200% satisfied with Shef. Food was awesome. Quantity was really good.” - Cynthia C.

The Framer's Workshop

Co-Founder: Kirstie Bennett ʼ69

Location: 2439 Channing Way, Berkeley, CA 94704

Phone: 510-849-4444

Website: https://www.framersworkshop.com/

Email: framers@mac.com

Social: @the_framers_workshop

About:

The Framer's Workshop is a family-run custom and do-it-yourself picture framing shop located in Berkeley, California, serving the San Francisco Bay Area since 1977. We specialize in fine custom framing, do-it-yourself framing, photo restoration and large format printing. We offer commercial onsite design, delivery and installation for businesses, designers and volume residential clients. We welcome wholesale accounts for art consultation and framing services. We also offer ready-made frames with free DIY fitting at The Framer's Outlet, a ready made frame shop directly connected to our main store.

Review:

“I've been a customer of The Framer's Workshop for over 15 years now and only have high, high praise for them. The work is excellent quality and they will take great care of your art. You can leave precious items with them without worry. There’s no upselling. They'll work with your budget and provide options without any guff or shaming. They have a wide variety of frames, mats, materials. You want something cool? They've got it. Premade frames at discount prices, cute greeting cards, pre-framed art for sale and DIY assembly options. They'll even teach you how to use the machines, so it's really like a free education. Communication has been excellent over the years with different staff, which means training is consistently solid.” - Sarah W.

***

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

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A Bruin’s Fight for Human Rights in Iran

CLA alumna Orly Hakimi ’03 wants people to know about the beauty of Iran. "I want people to get to know my country. The scenery is beautiful, the culture is amazing, the food is delicious. It has some of the best music, architecture, dancing, poetry, but the world doesn’t see it because of the human rights abuses.”

Hakimi has been outspoken in her support for the protests that followed the death of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian, who was detained by Iran’s so-called morality police for improperly wearing her government-mandated headscarf. When Amini died in custody, Iranians took to the streets in one of the country’s largest movements for human rights since the 1979 Iranian Revolution, when the religious Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran took power.

Iranian women have been at the forefront of civil rights protests, and Amini’s death sparked an uprising that soon spread worldwide, led by the chant “Woman, Life, Freedom” — “Jin, Jiyan, Azadi” in Kurdish; “Zan, Zendegia, Azadi” in Farsi.

Hakimi shared the discrimination and lack of human rights women face in Iran, “They can’t ask for a divorce, can’t wear what they want, can’t travel abroad without a male guardian’s approval, can’t check into a hotel. Basic things that we take for granted are outlawed.”

Iran is one of the world's oldest civilizations, and Hakimi draws a contrast between current events and the country’s legacy as the “Cradle of Civilization.” She says, “2500 years ago Cyrus the Great wrote the first document on human rights. It’s so sad that the country that was the birthplace of human rights is now fighting for what a person wears.”

When Hakimi was 10 years old, her family left Iran and emigrated to the United States after the murder of her grandmother went unpunished because she was a woman murdered by a man. Today, as an avid runner, she has been raising awareness in any way she can. She runs while carrying an Iranian flag and wearing the message, “Running for a Free Iran.” She says, “I have gotten so much positive feedback, our message has been heard.” She has joined fellow activists to paint murals, marched through Los Angeles and formed a human chain with thousands of people. She has attended rallies, concerts and a protest where people chained themselves to LACMA’s streetlights installation.

"They can’t ask for a divorce, can’t wear what they want, can’t travel abroad without a male guardian’s approval, can’t check into a hotel. Basic things that we take for granted are outlawed."

Young people are the driving force behind calls for change in Iran. Brave women have removed their hijab and cut their hair in acts of resistance. Many protests are taking place at universities and schools, and the government has responded with force, beating and imprisoning thousands. It is estimated that Iranian security forces have killed more than 300 people and detained nearly 15,000, mostly teens, young adults, students, lawyers, journalists and activists.

Protesters shared their acts of defiance on social media, until the Iranian government blocked or slowed access to digital communication. Tech-savvy young people are finding ways to avoid the blockade, and get messages and video to a waiting audience.

Los Angeles has the largest population of Iranians outside of Iran, and the UCLA community is home to Iranian students, alumni, staff and faculty. Following the Iranian Revolution, an estimated two million people left Iran. UCLA scholars are helping to make sense of the news, hosting panel discussions and meetings.

When Hakimi was a UCLA student, she was president of UCLA’s Iranian Student Group (ISG). Recently, she has returned to campus to attend events organized by ISG and the Iranian Graduate and Professional Association, including a candlelight vigil and a march across campus. She says, “I feel so much pride; the students are doing an amazing job.” Members of the student group appeared on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" to spread awareness of the events in Iran. They also sent an open letter to Chancellor Block saying, “It is imperative our community be properly recognized, heard, and seen by acknowledging and addressing the dire circumstances in Iran.”

Chancellor Block shared his concern in his Fall 2022 Update, “UCLA stands firm in its commitment to women’s rights, to justice and equality, and to democratic norms of free, open and safe expression of dissent. We stand unequivocally against violence and repression.”

"This is a revolution now and has surpassed mere protests."

In Iran, the protests continue, as does the government’s violent response. The fate of protestors in Iran remains unclear, as courts have begun issuing protest-linked death sentences. In response, the United Nations Human Rights Council called its first-ever special session on Iran on Nov. 24 to address the country’s “deteriorating human rights situation.”

As the demonstrations in Iran enter their third month, they have intensified in size and determination. Hakimi says, “This is a revolution now and has surpassed mere protests.” For her part, Hakimi will continue to march, run, create and speak out in support of the people of Iran. “I’m hoping future generations think of these stories as history that won’t ever be repeated.”

BRUINS IN THE PROS: CHEER AND DANCE EDITION

CLA has enjoyed a rich history of producing professional athletes in a wide variety of sports teams. In this issue of Bruins in the Pros, we’re featuring eight recent graduates who are currently performing for professional cheerleading and dance teams in both the NFL and NBA. Next time you’re at a game, don’t forget to cheer for these Bruins when you spot them on the field or the court!

Alicia Beebe ʼ21

UCLA Degree: Physiological Sciences

Professional Team: Second season with Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders

UCLA Activities: UCLA Dance Team

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“Beating 'SC at the Rose Bowl in 2018!”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“My time at UCLA taught me countless valuable skills and provided me with many resources both in and out of the classroom. These have enabled me to pursue my dreams outside of Westwood with confidence, professionalism, mentorship and experience.”

Claudia Borton ʼ21

UCLA Degree: Dance major, Spanish minor

Professional Teams: Los Angeles Charger Girl 2019-2020, Las Vegas Raiderettes 2022- present

UCLA Activities: Icarus Dance Company 2017, UCLA Dance Team 2018-2019, Junior Spirit Squad Coordinator 2018-2019, Student Representative at JWAC 2018-2021, WACSmash 2020, Spring Sing 2021 (Outspoken), UCLA Snow Team 2020-2021, Chi Omega Sorority 2017-2021 (recruitment chair 2021)

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“During spring quarter of my senior year, we held many Ski Team traditions, some of which honored and recognized the seniors on the team. We spent almost every weekend at Mammoth Mountain, laughing, sharing stories and, most importantly, shredding. My younger sister Sarah, who originally recruited me for the team, is now the president of the Ski Team for her senior year.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“UCLA gave me the tools to think critically about how I approach my goals rather than being narrow-minded on how to achieve a certain outcome. The people I met over my four years taught me that the process of growth is much more rewarding than reaching a desired outcome. UCLA continues to help me as I have relationships with my professors and peers that will last a lifetime.”

Chloe Quast ʼ22

UCLA Degrees: Political Science and Sociology

Professional Team: First season with Las Vegas Raiderettes

UCLA Activities: UCLA Dance Team for three seasons

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“During my senior year, I had the opportunity to travel with the Men’s Basketball Team to Las Vegas, Portland and Philadelphia. The memories I made while cheering for the Bruins, spending time with teammates, and interacting with fans and alumni on these trips are invaluable to me.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“The guidance and experience I received on the UCLA Dance Team were critical to accomplishing my goal of cheering at the professional level. I will always be grateful for the connections I made at UCLA and the people who have supported me as I live out this lifelong dream.”

Emily Lin ʼ20

UCLA Degree: Communication Studies major, Environment Systems and Societies minor

Professional Team: First season with Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders

UCLA Activities: UCLA Dance Team for four years, John Wooden Recreation Center supervisor, member of the Alpha Phi Sorority and Fraternity, Beta Delta chapter

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“I think it is hard to narrow all of my incredible experiences at UCLA down to one favorite memory, though I will say my first football game at the Rose Bowl in the fall of 2016, traveling to Shanghai, China, in 2017 to represent our school and athletic department internationally, and meeting my best friends through my many involvements at UCLA are a few of my favorites.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“Every time I stepped onto the field at the Rose Bowl, I was training for my professional career at SoFi Stadium. I owe it to my coach, Tiphanie McNiff, my teammates and the Bruin community for providing me with the skills and opportunities to train, learn and work with the best at the most prestigious collegiate level.”

Maddie Mapes ʼ20

UCLA Degree: Dance major, Food Studies minor

Professional Team: Three seasons with Las Vegas Raiderettes

UCLA Activities: UCLA Dance Team

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“Taking the field for the first time at the Rose Bowl while on the UCLA Dance Team. I always dreamed about cheering for the Bruins and it was such an honor to represent UCLA.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals? “Being on the UCLA Dance Team challenged me to become a stronger dancer and overall shaped me into the person and athlete that I am today. I am grateful for my coaches who helped me pursue my goal of dancing and cheering at the professional level. I am so proud to be a Bruin and will always cherish my memories from UCLA. Go Bruins!”

Mia Robertson ʼ22

UCLA Degree: Dance major, Film, TV, and Digital Media minor

Professional Team: First season with Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders

UCLA Activities: Kappa Kappa Gamma

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“Finally being able to take classes in person because I transferred here during the pandemic.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“UCLA helped me achieve my goals because the dance major introduced me to a great community of people with similar goals and aspirations.”

Abbigail Roque ʼ21

UCLA Degree: Nursing

Professional Team: First season with Los Angeles Laker Girls

UCLA Activities: UCLA Dance Team

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“The UCLA vs. SDSU game in 2019 was the very first football game [at which] I danced with the Spirit Squad. The Bruin pride that fuels the energy at the Rose Bowl Stadium is unmatched! There is nothing like a first game experience on the field and court.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“As the first nursing student on the UCLA Dance Team, I was able to continue chasing my love for dance while studying at one of the most prestigious nursing schools in the country. I have continued pursuing both of my passions, now practicing as an ICU nurse and professional NBA dancer.”

Aria Terango ʼ22

UCLA Degree: Dance and Neuroscience

Professional Team: First season with Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders

UCLA Activities: WACSmash, Expressive Movement Initiative, MYUCLA Health Ambassadors, Mortar Board, Medicine and Art, and Premed Undergraduate Society

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“At graduation, I spent the whole day going to my favorite spots on campus, from Ackerman to Royce, with my family and best friends! It was the perfect culmination of all my hard work and allowed me to truly appreciate everything UCLA has offered me.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“I’m so grateful to UCLA for offering me such a high-quality education and encouraging me to stay curious and pursue my passions. For these reasons, I had the confidence to audition for this life-changing role.”

Lilah Haye ʼ22

UCLA Degrees: Public Affairs and Dance majors, African American Studies minor

Professional Team: First season with the Las Vegas Raiderettes

UCLA Activities: Regents Scholars Society, Alumni Scholars Club, WACsmash

Favorite UCLA Memory:

“Choreographing a dance for the WAC/D undergraduate show, WACsmash. I loved using all the tools I gained in the department to create work that I am both passionate about and proud of.”

How has UCLA helped you in pursuing your goals?

“UCLA has provided me with the connections and resources to achieve my goals. Without my mentors from the UCLA community, I would not be where I am today.”

***

If we missed any Bruins who are currently cheering or dancing with a professional sports team, please email us at connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

A Return to Rieber and the Good Ol’ Days

n a warm summer morning in August, an enthusiastic group of Bruins returned to UCLA. Fifty-five alumni, family and friends came back to campus from 14 different states. A shared bond on their journey to adulthood brought them together and more than 45 years later, the bond not only remains strong, but it continues to grow.

The weekend held laughter and love, with old friendships renewed and new ones formed. As students, the group had all lived, partied and studied together on the fourth floor, North wing of UCLA’s Rieber Hall between the years 1975 and 1978. But what mattered is that they supported and looked out for each other. Among the attendees, there were 16 with master's degrees, six Ph.D.s, three M.D.s and four J.D.s. They also collectively had 61 children and 31 grandchildren.

When Steve Heifetz ʼ79 arrived at UCLA in 1975, Captain & Tennille were on the radio singing "Love Will Keep Us Together," Tommy Lasorda played for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and UCLA’s annual tuition was $630 for California residents; $2,130 for non-residents.

As the first in his immediate family to attend college, Steve had planned to work for his father. Accepted to UCLA, he was assigned a room on Rieber Hall 4 North (R4N). There, he found the community that gave him the determination to thrive in life. Steve’s bonds to R4N are strong — the dorm was where he met his future wife, Andrea (Halter) Heifetz ’80.

Steve Heifetz (Now) and Lorna De La Cruz

His floormates graduated in the years before cell phones or email, and many only stayed in touch with one or two friends. About 10 years ago, Steve began thinking about his UCLA days, “I miss my old friends, and I hardly ever see them.” The next time he was in Los Angeles for work, he arranged dinner with a small group. The evening ran late into the night, as the friends reminisced about their time at UCLA and how their shared experience during those formative years helped mold their lives.

Back in Minnesota, Steve dug out an old address list and started calling his R4N floormates. He set up a private Facebook group, which grew to 130 members, where the alumni post updates, share old photos and reconnect with friends — as well as rekindle romances. With the help of former UCLA Alumni Board member, John Gong ’80, Steve and Andrea began to plan and organize an in-person event.

"There was this moment in time that we all came together all those years ago. It was really terrific to be back with friends."

Miriam Loui ʼ80 traveled across the Pacific Ocean from Hawaii for the reunion. She is grateful to Steve, Andrea and John for getting the ball rolling, and describes the day as a gift. She says, “The best part of the reunion was that it even happened at all.” She felt happy and lucky to be there, and says, “There was this moment in time that we all came together all those years ago. It was really terrific to be back with friends.”

The excitement was infectious as the day started with a tour of the campus, including a stop at Rieber Hall. The group hired current UCLA students to lead the tours. Soon, alumni and students were sharing stories and swapping memories about Bruin life.

On The Hill, alumni marveled at how the dorm has evolved, with former doubles now sleeping three. When they were at UCLA, historic social changes were taking place across America. In keeping with new attitudes, UCLA began offering coed floors on the fourth and fifth floors of Hedrick, Rieber and Sproul Halls in 1973. Previously, a wall in the lounge between the two towers had separated men from women. Each floor had a bathroom at either end of the long hallway, one designated for men and the other for women.

The floormates voted to take these changes one step further and make their bathrooms coed after midnight, eliminating the need to take a long walk down the hallway late at night. And that’s where Steve met Andrea, brushing their teeth together after midnight. Several years later Steve and Andrea married, one of several marriages between R4N floor-mates.

Adding to the nostalgia of the day, UCLA Housing catered a delicious lunch. The meal was so wonderful that the alumni could not believe they were eating dorm food. The room also held two tables filled with memorabilia saved from their college days, including copies of the dorm newsletter “What’s Bru-in at Rieber.”

Steve shared a presentation he titled “How Did I Get Here?” He traced life from kindergarten to his career as a cardiologist, emphasizing how UCLA and R4N were central to his life’s pathway. He says, “Hold on to the things that are the most important part of your life … family and friends. They helped create who you are today.”

UCLA Alumni Director of Engagement Operations Sandy Nguyen ʼ10 delivered a talk on Chancellor Block’s Bruin Promise, followed by UCLA student and Alumni Scholar Jack Pearce exp. ʼ24, who gave an engaging presentation on his cancer research. Jack then shared another talent as the party DJ, spinning hit songs from the '70s.

"Looking back in the fullness of time, it’s part of me, and I’m really grateful to UCLA."

Elisa Lopez Stevens, Alfred Nunez and Marilyn Luzano Martin

Marilyn Luzano Martin ʼ78 was excited to reconnect with her long lost friends. She recalls that it felt like a family, “What resonates with me was the amazing group of people on the floor. Not everybody got along, but they were good, nice people with a sense of community and camaraderie.” The reunion brought back a flood of memories. “It was like no time has passed.”

Marilyn remembers dorm dinners in the cafeteria as a social event. From time to time, the group would get dressed up for a formal dinner at a nearby restaurant. She loved spending time with old friends. At the reunion, she reconnected with her roommate, Marla Walters. They have been talking and texting, and are planning a visit. She says, “I’m just hoping the next generation has the same experience.”

The day held one more special surprise. Steve created a one-hour video of photos that told the story of the floormates titled, “Return to Rieber.” Miriam says, “You could hear a pin drop. It was so wonderful to revisit college.” She remembers being a student, walking up Janss Steps thinking, “I’m here for a little while, make the best of it.” Now, she says, “Looking back in the fullness of time, it’s part of me, and I’m really grateful to UCLA.”

No reunion would be complete without a rousing 8-clap. When the party ended at 4 p.m., no one was ready to say goodbye. Half of the group moved to a private room at the Luskin Center's Plateia restaurant where they reminisced until 11 p.m.

The floormates agree that the day was a joyful and emotional success. They returned home grateful for the friends they made at a pivotal time in their lives, friendships that helped to determine their future plans. Seeing each other again was a reminder of how important these years had been, and that the bonds they made as Bruins are strong enough to last a lifetime.

Share with us your stories and the ways that you continue to connect with UCLA classmates, for a chance to get featured in a future article or social media post. Email it to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

Meet the Prez - Ann Wang

When Ann Wang ʼ13 won the UCLA Award for Recent Graduate Achievement in 2015, her future had limitless possibilities. At the time, she was co-founder and CEO of the socially conscious startup Enrou, an online marketplace that aims to create a positive social, financial and sustainable impact on global communities through the power of consumerism. The year prior, she had represented Enrou at the Forbes Under 30 Summit and won the "$400,000 Pressure Cooker" pitch competition. Notably, she was named a Forbes “30 Under 30” social entrepreneur in 2016, and she went on to build her own agency and creative studio that intersects entertainment, media, tech and nonprofits to generate lasting social and cultural change. That same year she joined the UCLA Alumni Association Board of Directors, and this past July, she became the first Asian American female and millennial to serve as the UCLA Alumni President.

Wang takes us through her journey from her early days as an uninvolved student to becoming the top officer charged with representing and engaging more than half a million UCLA alumni.

I chose UCLA because I wanted to focus on international development studies as well as have a city that had access to every industry and every opportunity. I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, but I wanted to be in a university that had vibrancy of opportunity, and for me that meant access to a lot of different industries.

I didn’t really know how to fit in. I grew up in Rancho Cucamonga, which is an hour east of L.A. but culturally, it was a different universe. UCLA was very intimidating, because it’s a massive school and I had never lived away from home before. The first couple of years was a transition from a mental health perspective and in learning how to live independently.

As a student, I honestly wasn’t very engaged. I wasn’t part of many organizations, maybe a couple of clubs, but my main priority were my studies and being a student worker. My freshman year I started working for the UCLA Volunteer Center which was brand new at the time. It was built by these amazing, innovative women, who taught me the importance of how to create and innovate within the UCLA ecosystem, which can be pretty bureaucratic at times. After a couple of years of learning and growing, I became a UCLA External Affairs intern under Rhea Turteltaub (Vice Chancellor for External Affairs), which was where I really honed my professional skills — by watching these powerful women move people forward towards impact. This set me up to be an entrepreneur.

By the time I was a senior, we accidentally built this company that was later called Enrou. I grabbed my best girlfriend (co-founder Jessica Wilson ʼ13) and gathered a group of passionate and talented Bruins to build within our own space in the UCLA ecosystem. The idea was to source these amazing products from developing countries that had a story behind them, and then create an online marketplace where socially conscious people can invest in artisans and makers through microfinance, supporting education and providing scholarships. Ideally, these financial investments would have a social and cultural impact in those regions.

Obviously, we had no idea what we were doing. We didn’t know how to find investors. We didn’t know how to put a business plan together. We didn’t know how to pitch anything. We eventually got into StartUp UCLA and started learning about pitching, how to raise money and how to think about our product. On a whim, we applied off Twitter for this pitch competition at Forbes Under 30 Summit in Philadelphia. The top prize was $400,000. We found out we got the opportunity to compete only 48 hours before the conference, so I slept very little trying to prepare. We pitched in front of a thousand people — and we won.

UCLA, Startup UCLA and our community of Bruins prepared us every step of the way without us even knowing it. Without the knowledge and support we gained from UCLA, we could not have told that story on stage. I credit this accidental catalyst that happens at UCLA when you are passionate, optimistic, impact-driven and you can bring people together.

After Enrou experienced rapid growth, capital raise and our fair share of challenges, we decided to slow down our build. And in a few years I knew it was time for me to step away. Once again, I was in a period of transition much like my entry into collegiate life. It was that first transition where I learned to prioritize a deeper level of self-awareness and my mental health, which is an important life lesson that I carry with me to this day.

I am now a creative consultant in a lot of ways. I built an agency and creative studio called Mindful Ambition where I work with artists, corporations, organizations to think about both their social impact and their tech investing strategy. I love trying to move the needle on really big social or cultural issues like mental health, API discrimination (Stop Asian Hate), recidivism and incarceration. I try to build bridges among different industries — entertainment, tech startups, nonprofits or corporations — so they can all work together towards those particular goals.

I wasn’t a rah-rah Bruin, but my connections to UCLA ran deep. My first job out of college was assistant director with Alumni Scholarships. After I left to work full-time with Enrou, we continuously hired many Bruin interns. We had customers and investors, venture capitalists who were alumni. My mentors Rhea (Turteltaub) and Julie (Sina, Associate Vice Chancellor of Alumni Affairs) were very big supporters, and it was then that I was nominated to join the Alumni Board. UCLA had given me so much and was critical to the position where I found myself — how could I say no? I was only 23 years old when I sat on my first board.

I felt like an impostor on this board of incredible, but slightly wiser, slightly older individuals. It took some time to get my footing and understanding of where my value was and how my voice and skill sets could be impactful. When I first joined there was no one on it who had graduated within 10 years, so I was the lone millennial voice. I was tasked with working with the Careers Committee where we established an Entertainment Industry Cabinet that connected top tier entertainment professionals with alumni and students. Later, as more young alumni joined the board, we moved towards new forms of innovation and engagement with alumni in the post-COVID era, where I was able to utilize my knowledge of tech. I didn’t want a ton of leadership roles, I just wanted to find a place that I felt I can make the most impact.

After six consecutive years, I was about to term off the board, when I felt this deep feeling that my work was not yet done. We are in this unprecedented post-COVID era with unique alumni and student needs. Our University, our amazing Association staff and the collaborations happening across campus have never been this strong and innovative, so pairing that with this season of need will redefine how alumni engagement works for the next generation. Focusing on meeting their needs was the catalyst for me to want to lead the board in the next couple of years. We’re about to embark into a period of innovation, building and resources, driven by technology, driven by data and driven for alumni across their lifespan. So that’s why I raised my hand (to run for president).

As the first Asian American woman to serve as president, I have a platform. Sure, outside of those labels I am who I am and my mentality has always been how can I be valuable; how can I be impactful? But I have also been on this journey of embracing, understanding and elevating my voice as an Asian American woman. That was not the case for me growing up. I never wanted my Asian identity to be this source of loud amplification of who I was. But I came to realize that I now have this ability to serve the University and our alumni, while representing the young, female Asian American voice who is not afraid to show up and fight for the amplification of our multi-cultural community and for the challenges we face, whether it’s discrimination, access, equity or whatever the needs may be. I accept this responsibility with great joy, and hope to make an impact through the Association Board and as a future UC Regent.

What impresses me most about alumni is how diverse and humble we are as a group. We are passionate and optimistic. We showed up for each other during the pandemic. We’re committed to solving some of the world’s biggest challenges and contribute in ways that are impactful, driving culture and society towards progress and evolution. But given all that, there’s not a lot of verbal shouting of all that we do. There’s an opportunity for us to share our stories more broadly and with pride. It’s a consistent theme that I’ve seen with alumni whom I’ve met who are change-makers and impact-drivers, and yet who are still pretty humble about it.

The next two years will be driven by our board’s commitment to the strategic plan. The environment we’re in right now is the needs of alumni have changed the last couple of years and continue to change. Our goal is to identify and address those needs across their lifespan. With the Chancellor’s Bruin Promise, we’re offering opportunities for lifelong learning and open access to UCLA’s resources. The two main priorities are: 1) Align and amplify the Alumni Association identity, and 2) Reimagine alumni engagement. We’ll be utilizing research data and technology to achieve these goals. We aim to elevate alumni relationships with each other, with UCLA, with the community and have a bigger presence globally.

At the end of my term, I want my legacy to be a noticeable change in how alumni perceives UCLA and the Alumni Association. I want alumni to feel a clear difference in how the University and the Association are showing up to support them. Secondly, I want alumni to feel seen and empowered by the UCLA story; for UCLA to not be perceived as just a bubble, but as one that reaches out to different industries, makes new partnerships, engages new alumni communities, so that their identity and their story is also the UCLA story.

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Alicia Beebe ʼ21

Claudia Borton ʼ21

Chloe Quast ʼ22

Emily Lin ʼ20

Maddie Mapes ʼ20

Mia Robertson ʼ22

Abbigail Roque ʼ21

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