Upcoming Events

UCLA Pow Wow Princess Pageant supported by American Indian Alumni of UCLA

Time Fri 5/1 • 3PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

The Pow Wow Pageant invites young Native women to compete for the title of Pow Wow Princess, which awards them with a scholarship toward their education and a platform to become a role model for other young Native women looking to pursue higher education while staying connected to culture.

Alumni

New York Tri-State Network: Spring Brunch Mixer With UCLA Health Operation Mend

Time Sat 5/2 • 8:30AM PDT

P.J. Clarke's On The Hudson • New York NY

Operation Mend is having a special brunch mixer with the UCLA Alumni New York Tri-State Network. Connect with local Bruins, expand your network and learn more about the life-changing work of Operation Mend — all while enjoying delicious brunch fare and festive brunch cocktails.

Alumni

San Diego: Hike with Bruins in South Bay San Diego

Time Sat 5/2 • 9:30AM PDT

Rice Canyon Open Space Preserve • Chula Vista CA

Join local San Diego Bruins for a relaxed South Bay hike and hangout. We will meet at the Kumeyaay Park Statue and walk together through Rice Canyon Open Preserve, enjoying fresh air, good conversation, and easy trails. As this gathering falls on the weekend before Cinco de Mayo, we invite you to walk with us and learn about the history and meaning of the day with Jessica Huerta, UCLA Sociology PhD Candidate. After the hike, anyone who wants to keep the day going can head over to 3rd Ave in Chula Vista for lunch together. All paces welcome. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and your Bruin spirit! **Meeting point:** Kumeyaary Park Statue 700 Buena Vista Way, Chula Vista, CA 91910 **Cost:** This event is free to attend. If you would like to contribute to the UCLA Network of San Diego Scholarship Fund, you may do so **[here](https://giving.ucla.edu/Campaign/Donate.aspx?SiteNum=1&fund=82041E&AutoFN=Y&Code=OL866)**.

Alumni

Bruin Family Socials – Westlake Village, CA

Time Sat 5/2 • 10AM PDT

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf - Westlake Village • Westlake Village CA

Bruin Family Socials are events that bring UCLA to neighborhoods around the world. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, Bruin Family Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. Historically, Bruin Family Socials have taken place over the course of one weekend each year. During spring 2023, these events transitioned to a year-round model that accommodates a variety of activities and locations, ultimately allowing for added flexibility and more opportunities to build community than ever before. We hope you will join us at an event near you!

Alumni

EmPower Hour - Disability Inclusion in the Workplace

Time Sat 5/2 • 11AM PDT

UCLA Labor Center • Los Angeles CA

**Disability Inclusion in the Workplace** Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m. [UCLA Labor Center](https://labor.ucla.edu/) | 675 S. Park View St., Los Angeles, Calif. 90057 Whether you're navigating your own workplace experience or working to build a more inclusive environment for others, this conversation is for you. Join the [UCLA Disability Alumni Network](https://alumni.ucla.edu/alumni-networks/udan/), [UCLA Alumni Career Engagement](https://alumni.ucla.edu/alumni-career-engagement/) and [UCLA Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives](https://alumni.ucla.edu/diversity-programs-and-initiatives/) at the UCLA Labor Center for an EmPower Hour panel discussion featuring Bruin employers and employees. Through firsthand accounts and facilitated dialogue, this event explores what disability inclusion looks like in practice — from disclosure and accommodation to advocacy and allyship. Through open conversation and community building, attendees will: * Build community with Bruins through honest dialogue about disability in the workplace * Gain insight into the lived realities of people with disabilities in professional settings * Learn best practices for disability inclusion as an employee, employer or ally * Hear about opportunities to further engage with the [UCLA Disability Alumni Network](https://alumni.ucla.edu/alumni-networks/udan/) Stick around after the panel for facilitated tabletop discussions over small bites, and leave empowered with disability-advocacy strategies for your workplace and beyond. Light refreshments provided. **About the Speakers** [Rolondo Talbott '00](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rolondotalbott/), CSM, PMP, CDE Talbott is a diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) strategist and U.S. Air Force veteran with 20 years of experience leading neuroinclusive initiatives at companies including Disney, Amazon and NBCUniversal. [Taneen Jafarkhani '08](https://www.linkedin.com/in/taneen/), J.D. Jafarkhani is an employment attorney at Folger Levin LLP specializing in discrimination and wage-and-hour matters. She earned her J.D. from UC Berkeley School of Law. [Jennifer Miyaki '25](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-miyaki/), M.A. '25 Miyaki earned her concurrent B.A. and M.A. in linguistics with research focused on American Sign Language, and brings a firsthand student perspective on disability and neurodiversity advocacy through her work with UCLA's Disabled Student Union and Bruin Neurodiversity Collective. **About the Venue** The [UCLA Labor Center](https://labor.ucla.edu/) brings together workers, students, faculty and policymakers to address the most critical issues facing working people today. For 60 years, its research, education and policy work has lifted industry standards, created good jobs for communities and strengthened immigrant rights. The center is housed at the UCLA James Lawson Jr. Worker Justice Center in the heart of working-class Los Angeles.

Alumni

American Indian Alumni of UCLA Annual General Meeting

Time Sat 5/2 • 2PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

Join American Indian Alumni of UCLA during the 41st Annual UCLA Pow Wow for our annual general meeting. Nominate a Bruin by April 27 to be considered for a role on our board. Elections will take place at our general meeting.

Alumni

UCLA Pow Wow Head Staff Dinner supported by American Indian Alumni of UCLA

Time Sat 5/2 • 5:30PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

The 41st Annual UCLA Pow will take place May 2nd & 3rd across campus. Join other Head Staff at a dinner supported by American Indian Alumni of UCLA at the James West Alumni Center.

Alumni

Westside Network: UCLA Alumni May Hike

Time Sun 5/3 • 8:45AM PDT

Ray Miller Trail •

Join us for a hike on the Ray Miller Trail with stunning ocean views in the Santa Monica Mountains! We will meet at the picnic benches in the parking lot at 8:45 a.m. Parking is available in the lot for a fee, or you can park on PCH. Here is the hike information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/ray-miller-backbone-trail Hikers will have the option to do a round trip of 5.4 miles for those who want a shorter hike and those who want a longer hike will have the option of an extension for a total of 8/9 miles. Please make sure that you are prepared with appropriate footwear, sunscreen and/or a hat, and plenty of water.

Alumni

Orange County Network: "The Devil Wears Prada 2" Movie Watch

Time Sun 5/3 • 2PM PDT

Cinemark Century Orange and XD • Orange CA

OC Bruins Present: The Devil Wears Prada 2 — An Exclusive Watch Party. Some evenings simply matter — and this is one of them. OC Bruins has reserved the entire theater at Cinemark Century Orange for Sunday, May 3. The movie starts promptly at 2:30 pm, and the dress code is exactly what the moment calls for: all black, with a touch of Bruin blue. Think of it as your personal editorial — because as any true Runway reader knows, a cerulean sweater is never just a cerulean sweater. It's a statement. It's a legacy. It's the whole point. A million people would love to be in this theater tonight. You already have the invitation. Register and pay, then forward your confirmation to Eden Tsai at east.of.eden@alumni.ucla.edu and let her know which seat you'd like. You can find the chart of available seating [**here**](https://www.canva.com/design/DAHCiAhhztc/AnEqTOy65e4xnSGwm98O7w/view?utm_content=DAHCiAhhztc&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=he979db84aa).

Alumni

Bay Area Bruins: Planning Meeting

Time Mon 5/4 • 7PM PDT

Zoom

Join us for our bi-monthly Bay Area Bruins Board planning meeting. Meet new Bruins over Zoom. Learn about our past, present and future events in Northern California. We aim to coordinate activities to bring Bruins together across geographies, from Los Gatos to Oakland to Marin to San Mateo. Get connected with UCLA and your local alums. RSVP to get the Zoom link. We look forward to meeting you!

Alumni

Bay Area Bruins: May Guided Meditation

Time Wed 5/6 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

Take 20 minutes in your day to enjoy much-needed relaxation and calm. When registering, please enter "UCLA" under "organization." Monthly meditation is led by Michal Rinkevich (MBA '14) who has been practicing healing arts and meditation since 1995 and teaching since 2006.

Alumni

New York Tri-State: Book Club: "One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This," Omar El Akkad

Time Wed 5/6 • 4:30PM PDT

Zoom

Join with fellow Bruin book lovers (and a few Cal Bears too) as we discuss "One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This"— a compelling work by Omar El Akkad that won the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 2025. This is sure to challenge our assumptions and push us out of our comfort zone as we assess America's role in the world through the eyes of this award-winning novelist and journalist. Newcomers are always welcome!

Alumni

Sacramento Network: UoBruin Trivia Night!

Time Wed 5/6 • 6:30PM PDT

University of Beer - East Sacramento • Sacramento CA

Put your knowledge to the test (with other Bruins) at Trivia Night, hosted every Wednesday at UOB (there are multiple locations). Prizes are given to winning teams!

Alumni

2nd Act: Insight Into Estate Planning

Time Thu 5/7 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

Join us for an informative and empowering session designed specifically for alumni 50+, featuring Elizabeth Bawden J.D. ’00, partner at Withers Bergman LLP and faculty member at UCLA Law. She will guide you through the essentials of wills and trusts, estate and gift taxation, and thoughtful estate planning. Whether you're just beginning to consider your legacy or looking to update existing plans, this event will provide practical insights to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t miss this opportunity to ask questions, gain clarity, and take proactive steps toward securing your future.

Alumni

Orange County Bruins: OC Bruins Hiking at Caspers Wilderness Park

Time Sat 5/9 • 8AM PDT

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park • San Juan Capistrano

Join your fellow Bruins for a morning hike at Caspers Wilderness Park in San Juan Capistrano. We will be hiking the East Ridge/Cougar Pass/Bell Canyon loop. Total mileage is 5.4 miles with 721ft elevation gain. This trail is rated as Moderate. Total time is estimated 2-3 hours.

Alumni

Locks of Love

Time Tue 5/12 • 10AM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

Join ASC for a good cause. Get a free haircut by donating your hair to women and children that have suffered from medical hair loss

Alumni

Alumni Mentor Program: Dinner in the Dorms

Time Tue 5/12 • 5:30PM PDT

De Neve Commons Residential Restaurant •

Join us for a celebration of Bruin community and successful mentorship, and enjoy a shared meal with other members of the 2025-26 Alumni Mentor Program cohort. Following the meal, we encourage mentors and students to attend the My Last Lecture event together at 7 p.m. in De Neve Auditorium.

Alumni

The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: What Is Leadership?

Time Tue 5/12 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT

Zoom

The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.

Alumni

My Last Lecture

Time Tue 5/12 • 7PM PDT

De Neve Plaza Room • Los Angeles CA

On Tuesday, May 12, the Alumni Scholars Club and UCLA Residential Life will host a ceremony to award her the honor and she will present a lecture that will answer the question: "What would you tell your audience if this was your last lecture on Earth?"

Alumni

Thriving in the Gap: How to Make the Most of a Survival Job Without Getting Stuck Featuring Markell Morris

Time Wed 5/13 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

Many professionals take “bridge” jobs out of necessity, after a layoff, career disruption or while re-tooling for more meaningful work. While these roles can provide stability, they can also quietly stall long-term career progress. In this practical, experience-based webinar, career counselor Markell R. Morris, MA, NCC, DCC shares real-world strategies drawn directly from job seekers who successfully used survival jobs as stepping stones, rather than dead ends. Participants will learn how to reframe their mindset, leverage everyday work experiences and strengthen their network to intentionally plan their next move and avoid burning out or losing momentum. This session is ideal for mid-career and late-career professionals navigating transition, as well as recent graduates balancing financial realities with long-term career goals.

Alumni

Sacramento Network: UoBruin Trivia Night!

Time Wed 5/13 • 6:30PM PDT

University of Beer - Roseville • Roseville CA

Put your knowledge to the test (with other Bruins) at Trivia Night, hosted every Wednesday at UOB (there are multiple locations). Prizes are given to winning teams!

Alumni

Orange County Network: UC Alumni: Trivia Night

Time Thu 5/14 • 8AM - 5PM PDT

6 Executive Circle • Irvine CA

Come join us for UC Alumni Trivia Night and see how much of that lecture hall knowledge, late-night cramming, and exam-season survival instinct is still tucked away in your brain. Alumni from UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, UCLA, and UC San Diego are coming together for a fun night of trivia, teamwork, and UC pride. Whether you were a front-row note taker, a study-group regular, or someone who somehow always pulled it together by finals week, this is your chance to put that college knowledge to use. Grab some friends, form a team, and compete for prizes, bragging rights, and the satisfaction of knowing those tuition dollars taught you something. We’ll have light food and drinks to keep everyone fueled between rounds. Come ready to think fast, laugh a lot, and represent the best of the University of California alumni community.

Alumni

South Bay Book Club - May

Time Thu 5/14 • 7PM PDT

Hybrid: In-person or via Zoom •

Come join Bruin Alumni and Friends for a fun and relaxing discussion of books. We try to curate a wide variety of genres (all recommended by our own members) to accommodate all tastes and to encourage each other to read something we wouldn't on our own. We would love to have you join us. All are welcome! May: A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah. Please email bkronbeck@social.rr.com to be added to the waitlist for the South Bay Book Club.

Alumni

Orange County Bruins: Volunteering with Second Harvest Food Bank

Time Sat 5/16 • 9AM PDT

Second Harvest Food Bank - Distribution Center • Irvine CA

Come spend a morning volunteering with your fellow Bruins at Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County. Participants will help process and sort nutritious food to be distributed to the OC community. Volunteers assist in a variety of food processing projects, including sorting and inspecting produce, packaged foods, crates and boxes at our Distribution Center in Irvine. This is an indoor opportunity.

Alumni

Bruin Family Socials – Soquel, CA

Time Sat 5/16 • 3PM PDT

Beer Thirty Bottle Shop and Pour House • Soquel CA

Bruin Family Socials are events that bring UCLA to neighborhoods around the world. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, Bruin Family Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. Historically, Bruin Family Socials have taken place over the course of one weekend each year. During spring 2023, these events transitioned to a year-round model that accommodates a variety of activities and locations, ultimately allowing for added flexibility and more opportunities to build community than ever before. We hope you will join us at an event near you!

Alumni

Seattle Network: Seattle Bruins at Lumen Field - Sounders vs. LA Galaxy

Time Sat 5/16 • 6PM PDT

Lumen Field • Seattle WA

Join the UCLA Seattle Alumni Network for an exciting night of soccer as the Seattle Sounders take on the LA Galaxy at Lumen Field! This is a great opportunity to connect with local Bruins in the Seattle area while enjoying one of Major League Soccer’s most exciting rivalries. Whether you're a passionate soccer fan or just looking for a fun community event, this Bruins outing is the perfect way to build connections and represent UCLA together. Why Attend? Connect with UCLA alumni living in Seattle Sit in the dedicated UCLA group section Experience the Seattle vs. LA rivalry live Enjoy a fun and casual community event Bring your friends, family, or other Bruins! Saturday, May 16 6 p.m. Lumen Field 800 Occidental Ave S Seattle, WA 98134 Cost: $39+ (pricing varies by seating) Link to purchase tickets provided upon RSVP. Purchasing through this link ensures you will be seated in the UCLA Alumni group section so you can enjoy the game alongside other Bruins.

Alumni

Spring Sing 2026

Time Sat 5/16 • 7:30PM PDT

Royce Hall • Los Angeles United States

Since 1945, Spring Sing has been one of UCLA’s most defining traditions — a celebration of the incredible talent, creativity and spirit of our student body. What started as a barbershop quartet competition has grown into a full-scale showcase of music, dance and comedy. This year, we’re taking the stage at Royce Hall for an unforgettable night. Expect show-stopping performances from student artists, hilarious skits from Company and special appearances from celebrity judges. Tickets are on sale now — be a part of the magic!

Alumni

New York Tri-State Network: Bruins KBBQ Night in Fort Lee

Time Sun 5/17 • 2PM PDT

365 BBQ • Fort Lee

Join with fellow Bruin book lovers (and a few Cal Bears too) as we discuss this compelling work by Omar El Akkad that won the National Book Award for non-fiction in 2025. This is sure to challenge our assumptions and push us out of our comfort zone as we assess America's role in the world through the eyes of this award-winning novelist and journalist. Newcomers are always welcome!

Alumni

Bruin Family Socials – Sacramento, CA

Time Sun 5/17 • 4PM PDT

Urban Roots Brewery & Smokehouse • Sacramento CA

Bruin Family Socials are events that bring UCLA to neighborhoods around the world. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, Bruin Family Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. Historically, Bruin Family Socials have taken place over the course of one weekend each year. During spring 2023, these events transitioned to a year-round model that accommodates a variety of activities and locations, ultimately allowing for added flexibility and more opportunities to build community than ever before. We hope you will join us at an event near you!

Alumni

The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: Managing Teams

Time Tue 5/19 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT

Zoom

The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.

Alumni

Orange County Network: What’s Next for California’s Economy in 2026? Risks, Opportunities, and the Road Ahead

Time Tue 5/19 • 6PM PDT

Zoom

California’s economy is navigating a period of heightened uncertainty shaped by geopolitical conflict, energy market volatility, shifting trade conditions, evolving labor market dynamics, and continued investment in artificial intelligence and related technologies. This program will provide a timely overview of the key forces influencing the state’s economic outlook and the implications for California’s industries, institutions, and workforce. Dr. Somjita Mitra ’00, Chief Economist for the California Department of Finance, will discuss several of the major developments affecting the economic environment in 2026. These may include the effects of global instability on inflation and energy prices, California’s exposure to trade and supply chain disruption, the relationship between business investment in AI and labor market adjustment, and the outlook for employment and growth across the state. Particular attention will be given to how these developments may affect sectors that are central to California’s economy, including technology, logistics, higher education, public finance, and innovation-driven industries. The discussion will place recent events in broader economic context and consider how national and international shifts may translate into state-level impacts. The program will conclude with an open question-and-answer session, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage directly on the economic issues most relevant to their work, studies, and communities. About the Speaker: Dr. Somjita Mitra serves as Chief Economist at the California Department of Finance, where she oversees the Economic Research Unit responsible for preparing the state’s economic forecasts and advising on policy developments. She also guides the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisors and provides analysis to the Director of Finance, the Governor’s administration, and other state and local agencies. Before joining the Department of Finance, she was Director of the Institute for Applied Economics at the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, where she led regional and industry studies across California. Earlier in her career, she worked as an economist and consultant specializing in market analysis, economic damages, and strategic research for public and private clients. She is also a member of the Public Policy Institute of California’s Economic Policy Center Advisory Council. Open to alumni, students, faculty, staff, and guests across the UC community.

Alumni

Board Game Bar Social with UCLA Mixed Alumni Association

Time Sat 5/23 • 5PM PDT

Guildhall - Burbank • Burbank

Join us! The UCLA Mixed Alumni Association is organizing a social event at Guildhall in Burbank, where alums can meet and chat with other Mixed Alumni in the area.

Alumni

San Fernando Valley: Wellness Walk

Time Sun 5/24 • 9AM PDT

Greenbriar Trailhead • Los Angeles CA

Please join our third wellness walk of the year! We will be walking the Greenbriar Trail in Topanga Canyon. It is a 3 mile out and back trail which means you can walk as much or as little as you want. Wear your Bruin gear and don't forget your water. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/greenbriar-trail ![](https://assets.alumni.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Screenshot-2026-04-30-114817.png)

Alumni

Bruin Family Socials – Petaluma, CA

Time Sun 5/24 • 12PM PDT

Lombardi's | Gourmet Deli & BBQ • Petaluma CA

Bruin Family Socials are events that bring UCLA to neighborhoods around the world. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, Bruin Family Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. Historically, Bruin Family Socials have taken place over the course of one weekend each year. During spring 2023, these events transitioned to a year-round model that accommodates a variety of activities and locations, ultimately allowing for added flexibility and more opportunities to build community than ever before. We hope you will join us at an event near you!

Alumni

The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: Communication

Time Tue 5/26 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT

Zoom

The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.

Alumni

Your Next Degree: Graduate School

Time Wed 5/27 • 5PM PDT

Zoom

Careers and academic interests often evolve over time, and many people choose to pursue graduate education after gaining experience in the workforce or further exploring their fields. Whether you are considering a master’s or PhD, in an academic or professional program, graduate school can be a powerful step toward advancing your goals, shifting career paths, or deepening your expertise. This UCLA Alumni webinar will explore what it takes to apply to graduate school across a range of disciplines. The application process can differ significantly from other advanced degrees and depends on your individual goals and motivations. You will gain an overview of the process and timeline, hear from a representative from the UCLA Division of Graduate Education, and learn how to evaluate programs such as those offered through the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. A UCLA Career Center representative will also share insights on how graduate education can help unlock future career opportunities. Whether you are actively preparing an application or just beginning to consider graduate school, this session will help clarify the process and available pathways. ### **The panel of speakers includes:** * * * ![](https://assets.alumni.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Johanna-Arias.jpg) ****Johanna Arias, M.Ed.**** _**Student Affairs Officer for the Executive Master of Public Health (EMPH) Program,** **Executive Programs, Department of Health Policy & Management,** **UCLA Fielding School of Public Health**_ A higher education professional, Johanna Arias is passionate about empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders. Johanna holds a Master of Education in Educational Counseling from the USC Rossier School of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy from the University of California, Riverside. Working closely with EMPH Program Director Dr. Isomi Miake-Lye, Johanna offers guidance to EMPH applicants and is the first point of contact for anyone with inquiries about the program or the admissions process. She works closely with EMPH faculty and students and is currently taking 1:1 meetings with prospective applicants to discuss their academic and career goals. UCLA's Executive Master of Public Health is a two-year graduate program in Health Policy and Management designed to equip working professionals with the essential knowledge, skills, and resources to navigate the complexities of the modern healthcare environment. This in-person, cohort-based program features a full-time curriculum that meets on the UCLA campus every other weekend, allowing students to balance rigorous academic training with their professional careers. With one start per year in the Fall, the program emphasizes leadership in health policy and management and provides students the opportunity to develop a practical business plan through their coursework. For the capstone project, all students conduct an applied consulting project beginning in the summer following their first academic year; working in two-person teams, students address policy development issues, management consultations, or mentored problem resolutions in coordination with sponsoring organizations or other health-related entities. Upon graduation, students earn an MPH degree and gain access to a robust and active alumni network, ensuring continued professional support and collaborative opportunities. For more information, please visit:https://www.exechpm.ucla.edu/ * * * ![](https://assets.alumni.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/MJ-Hidalgo-Flores.jpg) ****Maria José (MJ) Hidalgo Flores, M.S. (she/her/ella)**** _**Assistant Director, Undergraduate Career Education and Development**_ Maria José (MJ) is a two-time alumna of Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, where she earned her M.S. in Counseling Psychology and B.A. in Psychology. As a first-generation Latina, her experiences shaped her passion for guiding others in finding their path. She is currently the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Career Education and Development at the UCLA Career Center, where she supports Humanities and Social Science students and collaborates with the First To Go and Transfer Student Center offices. MJ is dedicated to helping students build confidence and navigate their careers, grounded in her belief that self-awareness is key to fulfillment. * * * ![](https://assets.alumni.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Jenna-Mendoza.jpg) ****Jenna Mendoza, MA**** _**Student Affairs Officer for the Online Master of Healthcare Administration Program,** **Executive Programs, Department of Health Policy & Management,** **UCLA Fielding School of Public Health**_ Jenna Mendoza holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University. Jenna began working in student affairs at UCLA in 2020, where she utilized the counseling skills she developed during her graduate studies and the experiences she gained while working with first-year students at LMU. Jenna has been working with the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health online MHA program since 2021 and is committed to assisting MHA students from around the globe in achieving their academic and professional goals. UCLA's online MHA program is designed to equip working professionals with the leadership skills to implement effective, value-based care strategies guided by both data and compassion. The program offers a fully online curriculum with asynchronous learning accessible from anywhere, supplemented by two intensive on-campus immersions. To accommodate diverse professional schedules, the program provides four start dates per year—Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer—with both full-time and part-time tracks available. With a core emphasis on healthcare management, the degree requirements include a comprehensive capstone project that allows students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. Graduates earn an MHA degree and gain entry into a robust and active alumni network, ensuring long-term professional connectivity and support. For more information, please visit:https://www.exechpm.ucla.edu/ * * * ![](https://assets.alumni.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Tiara-Wair-Headshot-scaled.jpg) ****Tiara Wair**** _**Assistant Dean, Recruitment, Outreach & Admissions, UCLA Division of Graduate Education**_ With more than 18 years of experience in higher education, Tiara is committed to expanding educational access and advancing student success. She holds a B.A. in Communication and an M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from Saint Louis University. In her current role as Assistant Dean for Recruitment, Outreach, and Admissions at the University of California, Los Angeles, she leads campus-wide strategies to recruit, admit, and enroll exceptional graduate students across more than 130 master’s and doctoral programs. A proud first-generation college graduate, Tiara has guided countless students and families through the complexities of the college search and admissions process. * * *

Alumni

Orange County: OC UCLA Book Club

Time Wed 5/27 • 6:30PM PDT

Come to discuss this month's free read, a book you choose to read and share with us to formulate our next booklist.

Alumni

Daily Bruin Alumni Network: L.A. Mixer at Boomtown Brewery

Time Thu 5/28 • 8AM - 5PM PDT

Boomtown Brewery • Los Angeles CA

Joing the Daily Bruin Alumni Network for a casual mixer at the Boomtown Brewery in Los Angeles. In addition to their taproom offerings, the brewery hosts different food trucks daily. This is a great opportunity for local Daily Bruin alumni to make new friends and expand their network!

Alumni

UCLA Social Enterprise Academy Venture Showcase

Time Thu 5/28 • 4PM PDT

Zoom

UCLA Alumni Affairs, the UCLA Department of Economics, and the Academies for Social Entrepreneurship invite you to the UCLA Social Enterprise Academy Venture Showcase. Three student teams representing local community organizations will pitch business ventures to a panel of industry experts, angel investors, and prominent members of the UCLA community.

Alumni

Graduate Student and Alumni Networking Night

Time Thu 5/28 • 5PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

UCLA Graduate Career Services and the UCLA Alumni Association is excited to invite you to the Graduate Student and Alumni Networking Night. This event consists of an opportunity for alumni to network amongst themselves from 5PM-6PM, and then with current graduate students from 6PM onward. Appetizers and drinks will be served! Date: May 28th, 2026 Time: 5PM-8PM Location: James West Alumni Center, UCLA Campus

Alumni

Bay Area Bruins and Asian Pacific Alumni of UCLA - Golden State Valkyries vs. Indiana Fever WNBA Basketball

Time Thu 5/28 • 7PM PDT

Chase Center, San Francisco, CA • San Francisco CA

Join the UCLA Bay Area Bruins for an unforgettable night of WNBA action as the Golden State Valkyries take on the Indiana Fever! After an incredible inaugural season that ended with a historic playoff appearance, Asian Pacific Alumni (APA) of UCLA, in partnership with the UCLA Bay Area Bruins, are excited to host an even bigger UCLA group night this year.  Why This Game? \* EXCLUSIVE POST-GAME CHALK TALK WITH COACH NATALIE NAKASE, UCLA Class of 2003! Golden State Valkyries Head Coach Natalie Nakase is known for her rise from a walk-on to a three-year starter and three-time team captain. After UCLA, she built an impressive coaching career, first overseas and then in assistant coaching roles with the NBA Los Angeles Clippers and the WNBA Las Vegas Aces, and is now the first Asian American head coach in WNBA history. \* EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTED GROUP PRICING: Tickets are $98 each, approximately 50% below public pricing, with no additional taxes, surcharges, or fees through our UCLA group link \* STAR POWER ON THE COURT: This matchup features the Indiana Fever and rising phenom Caitlin Clark, known for her deep three-point range and electrifying performances. The Fever also features UCLA alum Monique Billings (UCLA Class of 2018), whom we cheered on last season as a member of the Valkyries \* ELECTRIC, HIGH-ENERGY ATMOSPHERE: Chase Center, dubbed “Ballhalla” by fans during Golden State Valkyries games, sold out nearly every home game last season. The vibe has been compared to the legendary “Roaracle” era of Golden State Warriors basketball Additional details about the meetup and other logistics will be shared with registered attendees a few days prior to the event.

Alumni

Pilipino Alumni Association Sing-a-thon

Time Sun 5/31 • 10AM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

UCLA's Pilipino Alumni Association is hosting Sing-A-Thon to celebrate and share Filipino culture through musical expression. We welcome UCLA students, alumni, and the friends and family of UCLA's Filipino Community.

Alumni

Bruin Professionals Annual Golf Tournament

Time Mon 6/1 • 8AM PDT

Mulholland Hills Country Club •

The Bruin Professionals Annual Golf Tournament brings together business leaders, alumni, and community members for a day of golf, networking, and philanthropy - all in support of the BP Kyra Goldfarb Legacy Scholarship Fund. This scholarship was established to honor Kyra Goldfarb’s legacy by helping deserving students pursue higher education and achieve their academic and professional goals. Every sponsorship, registration, and donation directly contributes to expanding educational opportunities for students who might not otherwise have access to them. Held on June 1, 2026, at Mulholland Hills Country Club in Tarzana, the tournament offers a fun day of golf, community connection, and celebration of the Bruin Professionals network. Participants enjoy a premier golf experience alongside breakfast, lunch, and a cocktail reception, while sponsors gain meaningful visibility and the opportunity to support a cause that invests in the next generation of leaders. Most importantly, the event channels the strength of the Bruin community into something lasting - scholarships that help students build brighter futures. Click the link below to learn more about Kyra Goldfarb and the Kyra Goldfarb Legacy Scholarship Fund! https://www.bruinprofessionals.com/kyra-goldfarb-scholarship-fund

Alumni

True Bruin Tradition Keeper Reception & Program

Time Tue 6/2 • 5PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

Reception for Senior students that have completed the requirements of the True Bruin Tradition Keeper

Alumni

The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: Leading Through Uncertainty

Time Tue 6/2 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT

Zoom

The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.

Alumni

Bay Area Bruins - June Guided Meditation

Time Wed 6/3 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

Take 20 minutes in your day to enjoy much-needed relaxation and calm. When registering, please enter "UCLA" under "organization." Monthly meditation is led by Michal Rinkevich (MBA '14) who has been practicing healing arts and meditation since 1995 and teaching since 2006.

Alumni

ASC Spring Cookies & Cramming

Time Wed 6/3 • 7PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

Join the Alumni Scholars Club as we turn the James West Alumni Center into a study space for all students.

Alumni

New York Tri-State Network: UCLA/Cal Alumni Book Club - May 2026

Time Wed 6/3 • 7:30PM PDT

Zoom

In June, our book group turns to a work of award-winning fiction. We will discuss "James," by Percival Everett, which won the 2024 National Book Award for Fiction. A brilliant reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn—both harrowing and satirical—told from the enslaved Jim's point of view. When Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a man in New Orleans, separated from his wife and daughter forever, he runs away until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck has faked his own death to escape his violent father. As all readers of American literature know, thus begins the dangerous and transcendent journey by raft down the Mississippi River toward the elusive and unreliable promise of the Free States and beyond. Brimming with nuanced humor and lacerating observations that have made Everett a literary icon, this brilliant and tender novel radically illuminates Jim's agency, intelligence, and compassion as never before. James is destined to be a major publishing event and a cornerstone of twenty-first-century American literature. (from GoodReads) Join us for a discussion on Zoom. Newcomers are always welcome.

Alumni

Bruin Family Socials – Santa Monica, CA

Time Sat 6/6 • 12PM PDT

Private Residence - Address will be provided upon registration •

Bruin Family Socials are events that bring UCLA to neighborhoods around the world. Providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with one another on a regional level, Bruin Family Socials foster connections and relationships within the greater Bruin community. Historically, Bruin Family Socials have taken place over the course of one weekend each year. During spring 2023, these events transitioned to a year-round model that accommodates a variety of activities and locations, ultimately allowing for added flexibility and more opportunities to build community than ever before. We hope you will join us at an event near you!

Alumni

South Bay Network: South Bay Pier to Pier Walk

Time Sun 6/7 • 9AM PDT

Hermosa Beach Pier • Hermosa Beach

Grab a coffee, lace up your walking shoes, and join the UCLA South Bay Network for one of our most popular traditions, the Pier to Pier Walk! We’ll stroll along the scenic. Strand from the Hermosa Beach Pier to the Manhattan Beach Pier, then make our way back to Hermosa Beach. Along the way, connect with fellow Bruins, enjoy lively conversation, and soak in the iconic ocean views that make the South Bay so special. All are welcome—bring friends, family, strollers, and pets! Please plan on gathering in front of the Kelly Lifeguard Memorial Statue by Hermosa Beach Pier at 9:15am so we can start walking close to 9:30am. After the walk, you’re welcome to join us for a casual brunch at a local spot (location TBD).

Alumni

San Diego Network: Echoes of the Divine with the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus

Time Sun 6/7 • 1PM PDT

Mandeville Auditorium at UC San Diego • La Jolla United States

True Blue Bruins are making beautiful music in San Diego — and we're showing up to cheer them on! UCLA alumni Dr. Arian Khaefi conducts, and even more Bruins fill the ranks of the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus for their stunning season finale. This is our chance to rally around our own and experience world-class music made by people who bleed blue and gold. The program features Arvo Pärt's serene Berliner Messe, the world premiere of Akari Komura's Nee Commission, and Maurice Duruflé's transcendent Requiem — a powerful journey through reflection and renewal. Sunday, June 7 1 - 4 p.m. Schedule: 1 p.m. Pre-concert lecture by Dr. Khaefi + exclusive Bruin meet & greet 2 p.m. Concert Eight clap for our Bruins on stage — then sit back and let the music move you. Note: Parking info will be sent with your email confirmation directly from LJSC

Alumni

The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: Financial Decisions

Time Tue 6/9 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT

Zoom

The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.

Alumni

South Bay Book Club - June

Time Tue 6/9 • 7PM PDT

Hybrid: In-person or via Zoom •

Come join Bruin Alumni and Friends for a fun and relaxing discussion of books. We try to curate a wide variety of genres (all recommended by our own members) to accommodate all tastes and to encourage each other to read something we wouldn't on our own. We would love to have you join us. All are welcome! June: Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid. It is suggested that you please listen to the audio book. Please email bkronbeck@social.rr.com to be added to the waitlist for the South Bay Book Club.

Alumni

Class of 2026 Sendoff

Time Wed 6/10 • 6PM - 8PM PDT

James West Alumni Center •

Save the date for the official celebration of the Class of 2026. Gather your graduating friends and head over to the JWAC to eat, drink, dance, play games, take photos, receive your gift and relish the memories of your time at UCLA. More details to come.

Alumni

San Diego Network: Bruins Providing Stewardship to the SD Canyon Lands

Time Sat 6/13 • 8AM PDT

Ocean Discovery Institute • San Diego United States

Join fellow UCLA Alumni San Diego Regional Network for a day of service, connection, and community as we beautify local trails! Promote canyon health while enjoying fresh air and connecting with your community. Volunteers will care for native plants, remove invasive plants, and remove trash/small-debris from restoration areas. **Role:** As stewards of the City Heights Canyons, you can make a lasting impact by coming prepared! We suggest wearing long sleeves, a hat, and bringing a reusable water bottle! (we provide the refills) **Pro Tips:** The address provided is the closest point of access to the trailhead. Please street park, and be respectful of the neighbors- be mindful to not block driveways. Be sure to bring a reusable water bottle and sun protection, a water jug will be available for refills. Recommended attire: long pants and a long sleeve shirt. **Required attire:** Closed-toed shoes. Gloves and tools will be provided. Upon arrival, check in with Canyonlands staff and sign the waiver. The phone number provided is not accessible the day of events, so please contact us with any questions prior to the day of the event. Any potential updates will be posted to our Instagram page @sdcanyonlands.

Alumni

The Classroom – Millennial Leadership: Your Leadership Brand

Time Tue 6/16 • 5:30PM - 7PM PDT

Zoom

The Millennial Leadership course provides practical skills and builds confidence in key leadership areas, including effective delegation, managing former peers, conflict resolution, mitigating impostor syndrome, and navigating ambiguity.

Alumni

Arizona Network: UCLA Alumni Flagstaff Dinner

Time Sun 6/21 • 6PM PDT

Lumberyard Brewing Company • Flagstaff AZ

Join the UCLA Alumni Arizona Network for a casual networking dinner! This is a great opportunity for UCLA alumni in the Flagstaff area to meet and connect. Get to know the Arizona Bruin community! If you cannot attend this specific dinner, please reach out to Chey Tor and let him know that you would be interested in attending a future event in the Flagstaff area. Chey can be reached at chey@cheytor.com or 602.487.3975.

Alumni

Wine down at The Stonehouse

Time Tue 6/23 • 6PM PDT

The Stonehaus • Westlake Village CA

Join the Conejo Valley Bruins at the Stonehaus in Westlake Village for a relaxed evening of connection and community. Your ticket includes pizza and salad—come spend time with other Bruins.

Alumni

Grupo Folklorico de UCLA Alumni Association: Loteria Tardeada

Time Sat 6/27 • 4PM PDT

Señor Fish • Los Angeles CA

Guests will play Loteria (Mexican Bingo games) win prizes. Appetizers and drink non-alcoholic drinks will be provided free of charge by the restaurant owner.

Alumni

Westside Network: Summer Coastal Hike/Walk

Time Sun 6/28 • 5:30AM PDT

Pelican Cove Park • Rancho Palos Verdes

Join us for a coastal hike/walk in Palos Verdes with stunning ocean views! We will meet at Pelican Cove Park in the parking lot at 8:45 a.m. We will walk the coastal path north past Point Vincente and then south past Terranea. For those who are interested, the group can explore the beach at Pelican Cove and Terranea and grab a coffee or snack at Terranea on the way back. Please make sure that you are prepared with appropriate footwear, sunscreen and/or a hat, and plenty of water.

Alumni

Team UC Runs the Saucony London 10k

Time Sun 7/12 • 1AM PDT

Central London •

Since 2008, a team of University of California alumni, students and friends have participated in an annual 10K charity race through the heart of central London. Run, walk, or skip with UC Alumni UK this year to support student scholarships!

Alumni

South Bay Book Club - July

Time Tue 7/14 • 7PM PDT

Hybrid: In-person or via Zoom •

Come join Bruin Alumni and Friends for a fun and relaxing discussion of books. We try to curate a wide variety of genres (all recommended by our own members) to accommodate all tastes and to encourage each other to read something we wouldn't on our own. We would love to have you join us. All are welcome! July: The Lost Daughter by Elena Ferrante. Please email bkronbeck@social.rr.com to be added to the waitlist for the South Bay Book Club.

Alumni

Beyond the Algorithm: How to Get Noticed When Everyone Is Using AI With Armine Kulikyan

Time Wed 7/15 • 6PM PDT

Zoom

In an era where nearly every job seeker is using AI to help with job applications, many candidates worry that their applications aren’t being seen or that they sound just like everyone else. This workshop teaches UCLA alumni how to use AI strategically to stand out, not blend in. Participants will learn how employers use AI in hiring, how to avoid generic AI-generated language and how to enhance their unique professional voice through smarter prompting. We’ll walk through practical tools for tailoring applications, strengthening LinkedIn visibility and using AI to accelerate—not replace—the human elements that make a candidate memorable. Participants will leave with three actionable steps they can take in the next month to elevate their job search using AI.

Alumni

Bay Area Bruins: Bruins Night at the 2026 California Clásico - San Jose Earthquakes vs. Los Angeles Galaxy

Time Sat 7/25 • 7PM PDT

Stanford Stadium • Stanford CA

Join the Bay Area Bruins for the annual California Clásico - soccer match featuring the San Jose Earthquakes vs Los Angeles Galaxy at the Stanford Stadium, Saturday evening, July 25. The event commences with pregame ceremonies featuring fly overs and a precision team of skydivers landing on the field and delivering the "game ball". After the game all fans will be entertained with a spectacular drone show. This event sells out every year with the average Section 216 ticket face value being $40. Ticket purchasing opportunities will be announced in upcoming newsletters. Early purchases (until July 1) will offer preferred seating closer to the field, opportunities to win prizes, and discounted pricing at $34 per ticket. Tickets purchased after June 30 will be $37 each. A portion of each ticket sale will go to the Bay Area Bruins scholarship fund specifically benefiting students from the Bay Area. _Each ticket provides admission to Stanford Stadium for the Clásico match, ceremonies, and the post game drone show._

Alumni

Working Hard Isn’t Enough: The Unspoken Rules That Shape Your Career With Ricky Koo ’09

Time Thu 8/13 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

As a first-generation immigrant, career coach Ricky Koo was taught to work hard, stay humble and let results speak. Sound familiar? Here’s the thing: You can be great at your job and still be misunderstood, overlooked or underestimated. In this webinar, Ricky Koo—a first-generation immigrant who rose through the ranks to become a corporate executive before building his own professional coaching business— breaks down what actually shapes how you’re perceived at work, and how to take control of your professional narrative without being fake, loud or political in ways that feel misaligned. This isn’t about self-promotion. It’s about self-definition. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to: • Define your professional brand clearly—so others stop guessing your value or mislabeling your intent • Advocate for yourself without feeling awkward or “bragging”, even if you’ve been taught to keep your head down • Navigate workplace dynamics with confidence, instead of pretending they don’t exist (because ignoring them is a strategy—and usually a costly one) • Stay grounded in your worth during high-pressure moments, so stress, feedback or hierarchy don’t shake how you show up Regardless of your career level or what industry you work in, this session can help you develop your skills in self advocacy and intentional branding, refine your voice and create lasting impact.

Alumni

The Mindful U: Finding Calm, Clarity + Connection in a Chaotic World With Jessica Sanam Hekmat, MBA ’10

Time Wed 9/30 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

This interactive session led by career coach Jessica Sanam Hekmat invites participants to pause and reset to cultivate presence and self-awareness while navigating professional and personal demands. We’ll explore practical mindfulness tools and reflective prompts designed to foster resilience, regulate stress and re-energize focus. The conversation will balance strategy and self-inquiry, and we'll ground together in real time through guided breath work, reflection and visualization. Participants will leave with practical ways to reconnect to their values and sense of purpose, even when the external environment feels unpredictable.

Alumni

South Bay Book Club - October

Time Tue 10/13 • 7PM PDT

Hybrid: In-person or via Zoom •

Come join Bruin Alumni and Friends for a fun and relaxing discussion of books. We try to curate a wide variety of genres (all recommended by our own members) to accommodate all tastes and to encourage each other to read something we wouldn't on our own. We would love to have you join us. All are welcome! October: The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith. Please email bkronbeck@social.rr.com to be added to the waitlist for the South Bay Book Club.

Alumni

Taking Charge of Change: Five Fundamental Truths for Mastering the Chaos of Life With Jim Hjort ’94

Time Wed 10/21 • 12PM PDT

Zoom

Change is the only constant in life, and every day we are called to reckon with this. Today it may be most apparent to you in national or global tumult, a career pivot you’re contemplating or relationship dynamics you’re struggling to tweak or adapt to. However it shows up, you can count on the rug continuing to shift beneath your feet. And your brain really doesn’t like that, at least by default. In its frenzy to find stability today, it will leap to ways of thinking and behaving that will leave you feeling even more stuck, stifled, and afraid tomorrow. Yet, if you are inclined toward personal growth, you can use the tidal forces of change to propel you to ever-greater wisdom, inner stability and even growth. In this session with Jim Hjort, an executive and career coach, personal development trainer and licensed psychotherapist, you’ll learn: • Why your inner critic and pessimist is actually a key part of your team • Why you may do all the “right” things, while feeling less and less satisfied with your life • How to look beneath the surface of your life story to identify what makes you feel truly alive—so you can have more of that • Communication skills to help you show up for yourself first, so you can show up whole and healthy for anyone else you want in your life • How to not just survive chaos and uncertainty, but embrace it as the essential journey of your life

Alumni

South Bay Book Club - November

Time Tue 11/10 • 7PM PST

Hybrid: In-person or via Zoom •

Come join Bruin Alumni and Friends for a fun and relaxing discussion of books. We try to curate a wide variety of genres (all recommended by our own members) to accommodate all tastes and to encourage each other to read something we wouldn't on our own. We would love to have you join us. All are welcome! November: Poetry Night. We ask that you please bring your own poem or song lyric to share. Please email bkronbeck@social.rr.com to be added to the waitlist for the South Bay Book Club. https://youtube.com/shorts/nG3z3Q-NA5o?feature=share

Alumni