Bridging the Worlds of Tech, Politics and Advocacy

Regina Wallace-Jones MPP ’99 shared her unique mix of experiences as a leader in the tech, political and nonprofit spheres with a UCLA audience gathered to mark the 25^th anniversary of Public Policy at the Luskin School. Wallace-Jones is CEO and president of ActBlue, the tech nonprofit that facilitates online donations to progressive organizations and candidates. Pairing a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Stanford University with a master’s in public policy from UCLA left her well-prepared for a pioneering career that bridged different sectors. Wallace-Jones previously served in executive positions at tech companies including eBay, Facebook and Yahoo, and she has a strong track record as an election organizer — including her own successful campaign for office, as a city councilwoman, vice mayor and mayor in East Palo Alto. In 2023, she was named UCLA Luskin MPP Alumna of the Year. Wallace-Jones’ Nov. 6 talk at the UCLA James West Alumni Center was the first of a series of events commemorating Public Policy’s silver anniversary. In conversation with Public Policy chair Robert Fairlie, she described career obstacles she has overcome as well as the challenges of maintaining balance in her work and family life. During her appearance, Wallace-Jones was also presented with the Bruin Excellence in Civic Engagement Award, which is bestowed by UCLA Alumni Affairs on individuals who are finding solutions to today’s civic issues and improving the quality of life in our communities.