Celebrating UCLA Luskin Latinx Alumni
Join us for an inspiring evening as we highlight the remarkable contributions of UCLA Luskin Latinx alumni who are making a difference in Latino communities across various fields. This event is a testament to their dedication, impact, and the powerful role they play in fostering positive change.
This event is open to all Luskin undergraduate and graduate students.
Panelists:
Alejandra Garcia MPP’23, Government Affairs Manager at Comcast
Alejandra is a first-generation Latina with a professional background in public policy. Having worked in all three levels of government, she recognizes the pivotal role that policy plays in shaping our daily lives. Garcia is currently a Government Affairs Manager for Comcast. In her role, she assists Santa Cruz County and Monterey County in expanding their broadband initiatives.
Diana Benitez MURP ‘16, Senior Manager of Advocacy and Engagement at Canal Alliance.
In her role at Canal Alliance, Diana works alongside low-income communities and those of color to create healthy, safe, affordable communities. She has also worked on general plans, racial equity, early care and education, and greenhouse gas reduction analyses in the academic, non-profit, and private sectors. She’s a member of the Steering Committee of the American Planning Association (APA) California Planners4Health Initiative.
Antonio Sandoval Ayala, MURP ‘07, Director & Chair @ UCLA // Academic Success, Student Engagement & Inclusive Environment
As the Department Director for the Community Programs Office (CPO) at UCLA, Tony oversees various programs and services to support the academic success of low-income, minoritized students. His role involves managing a large team, cultivating partnerships, and developing innovative strategies to enhance student engagement and well-being.
He is also the Founding Chairperson of the UCLA Basic Needs Committee, where he leads campus-wide efforts to address food and housing insecurity among students, staff, faculty, and retirees.
Norma Garcia, MSW ‘13, LCSW, CEO and Founder at Norma Garcia
NORMA GARCIA LLC is a coaching and consulting business focused on supporting Latinx/BIPOC communities by raising mental health awareness, providing holistic and trauma-informed healing spaces, mentorship, coaching, and building community through workshops and speaking engagements.