UCLA Luskin

Luskin Day at City Hall
2025-04-11 10:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Los Angeles City hall, Los Angeles City Hall, Los Angeles, CA, United States
Luskin Day at City Hall will take place April 11, 2025. This event is exclusively for Luskin graduate students. The goal of this event is to facilitate networking between Luskin graduate students and officials working in local government and to pipeline Luskin graduate students to jobs and internships in the City and County of Los Angeles.
To participant in this experience, lease apply via CareerHub February 17-March 1.
For more information visit:https://luskin.ucla.edu/student-affairs/career-services#toggle-id-15

Luskin Summit 2025
2025-04-16 07:30 - 14:30 | UCLA Meyer & Renee Luskin Conference Center, 425 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
The seventh annual UCLA Luskin Summit will focus on the rebuilding and recovery of the Los Angeles region following the devastation caused by the wildfires in January 2025. This event is intended to provide policymakers and non-profit leaders with the latest research and guidance from UCLA Luskin experts, community groups, and government agencies to guide the effort to expedite recovery equitably.
The UCLA Luskin Summit is not just about recovery; we want to share the expertise and experience of leaders in Los Angeles and researchers at UCLA so we can restore communities and make them more resilient than before.
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Time: 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Location: UCLA Luskin Conference Center
Admission: $60 general admission | $20 for UCLA students
For those experiencing financial hardship or who were directly impacted by the Los Angeles fires, please email UCLA Luskin Events Director Tammy Borrero to learn more about registration fee discounts.
REGISTER BY APRIL 13

SESSIONS
Opening Plenary: Rebuilding Together
Track 1: Strategies in Rebuilding
Track 2: Community Recovery for Vulnerable Populations
Track 3: Impacts on Mental and Physical Health
Track 4: Climate Risk and Resilience
Closing Plenary: Unified to Thrive

2025 Luskin Undergraduate Program Graduation Workshop #3
2025-04-16 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
REGISTER HERE
Are you a Public Affairs major planning to graduate this year? Attend a Luskin Undergraduate Program Graduation Workshop to learn about graduation requirements, commencement logistics, resources for graduating students, and how to prepare for your final quarter at UCLA.
The Spring 2025 Public Affairs Undergraduate Program Graduation Workshop is open only to students who are graduating Fall 2024, Winter 2025, Spring 2025, Summer 2025, and Fall 2025.
The workshops will be held on the following dates via Zoom:

Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Monday, April 7, 2025 at 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 1:00pm – 2:30pm

Register here to receive Zoom meeting information.
For detailed information about the Luskin Undergraduate Program commencement ceremony, visit the Luskin Undergraduate Program Graduation & Commencement website.
Questions?
For questions about undergraduate graduation or commencement, contact the Public Affairs Undergraduate Program via MyUCLA Message Center.

Community Organizing for Social Change
2025-04-17 17:00 - 18:00 | 2343 Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
Join James Suazo, activist in residence with the UCLA Institute for Inequality and Democracy, to learn about different approaches to social change, direct action/community organizing, and power building ecosystems. James also serves as the Executive Director of Long Beach Forward, so participants will learn about the work that LBF does and how to get involved.

Spring Career and Internship Fair
2025-04-22 16:00 - 18:30 | UCLA Ackerman Union Grand Ballroom, 308 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, United States
You are invited to participate in the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs Career & Internship Fair on Tuesday, April 22 from 4:00-6:30pm at the Ackerman Grand Ballroom. Employer and graduate student registration will open on CareerHub in March 2025. Undergraduate Seniors pursuing a BA in Public Affairs must RSVP here: LINK COMING SOON.
At the Luskin Career Fair, you will have the opportunity to speak with Public Policy, Urban and Regional Planning, and Social Welfare graduate students and undergraduate Public Affairs majors looking for job and internship opportunities. Our students are interested in a variety of fields, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, public service and private sector establishments, mental health clinics, hospitals, social service agencies.

Lunch and Learn with JCI Worldwide
2025-04-24 12:30 - 13:45
Join Ken Chawkins, Steve Crosby, and Seth Jacobson from JCI Worldwide for a lunch and panel discussion on the recent Palisades and Eaton fires from a public affairs PR perspective. Panelists will explore the backlash against the LA County administration, including how leadership (especially Mayor Karen Bass) responded and what could have been done differently on the PR side.

Ken Chawkins, Senior Advisor: Having spent almost 30 years in public affairs, serving business, labor, government, and nonprofits, Ken is an expert in identifying strategic partners, developing sharp messaging and outreach efforts. Chawkins’ works with Gemini Motors and South Coast Air Quality Management District. He is Project Lead for the City of South Pasadena in their transition to become the first city in the US with an all zero-emissions Police Force and National Demographics Corporation helping public jurisdictions in California navigate the development of electoral maps. He teaches Stakeholder Engagement at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs.
Steve Crosby, Senior Advisor: Known for his years of extensive business, educational, and political relationships on the state and federal level. Crosby has more than 30 years of experience in public affairs, strategic corporate and crisis communications, government, and community relations, as well as grassroots coalition-building. As a senior advisor at JCI he provides insight and strategy for a variety of clients ranging from telecommunications and healthcare to technology. He has extensive experience in Sacramento having worked for the California Legislature for a number of years as well as providing public affairs strategy for clients on a multitude of issues in the State.
Seth Jacobson, Principal: Seth Jacobson is one of the nation’s leading marketing and communications specialists, with more than 25 years of experience in corporate communications, coalition advocacy, and public affairs. He specializes in creating highly effective advocacy programs for companies, governmental agencies, and organizations competing in the new global marketplace. Prior to starting JCI, he spent 12 years leading the western divisions of two of the nation’s largest public relations and advertising agencies: Edelman Public Relations and Ogilvy & Mather, where he ran divisions responsible for public affairs, public relations, and new technology. Prior to this, Seth spent five years working in Washington, D.C., including several years in the Carter and Clinton administrations in positions focused on press relations, global and national presidential events, technology, economic development, and foreign policy.

Founded in 1995, JCI is a leader in communications, advocacy, and public affairs. With award-winning campaigns and successful partnerships, their agency has built a reputation for delivering results and driving success. Their team is made up of communications professionals, crisis experts, and other individuals from diverse work experiences looking to grow their careers. JCI seeks out bright, motivated people who are curious and desire a challenge. People who succeed at JCI thrive on collaboration, continuous learning, and regular feedback.
Don’t miss out if you are interested in a career in strategic communications, public affairs, and advocacy!

NASW: Social Work Licensure in CA
2025-04-25 15:00 - 16:30 | Zoom
Join NASW-CA Executive Director, Kimberly Warmsley for an information session about social work licensure in California! MSW students interested in the process and timeline of licensure will learn those logistics, along with requirements and costs.

Tribal Leadership and California Policy in Action
2025-04-28 14:00 - 16:50 | 2343 Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
President Rudy Ortega Jr. of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians will join the California Policy course at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs as a guest speaker. His visit offers students a rare opportunity to engage directly with tribal leadership and gain insight into how tribal governments intersect with California state and local policy systems. President Ortega will speak on topics such as tribal sovereignty, the governance and history of the Fernandeño Tataviam Band, and how tribal nations collaborate with public agencies on shared challenges like housing, environmental protection, and infrastructure. Students can expect a rich, thought-provoking discussion that deepens their understanding of tribal-state relations and the critical role of Indigenous voices in shaping California policy.
He will be joined by :

Citlaly Ortega, Policy Specialist
Miguel Luna, Chief Administrative Officer
Luis Cervantes, Executive Director of the Tataviam Land Conservancy.

This special session highlights the broader impact of Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia’s course and the incredible lineup of guest speakers helping students deepen their understanding of California policy and governance.

Lessons in Leading Mission-Based Innovation in Transportation: Zero Fatalities, Zero Pollution, and Zero Disparities
2025-04-28 17:00 - 19:30 | UCLA James West Alumni Center, Tom Davis Founders’ Room, 325 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, 90095
RSVP HERE
This event is part of the Luskin Lecture Series and co-hosted by the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies as part of the Martin Wachs Distinguished Lecture Series.

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Check-in and Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Program
RSVP required for admittance. Admission is free, but registration is required for each attendee.

Description
Speakers

Robert Hampshire, Associate Professor of Public Policy, University of Michigan (featured speaker)

Ann E. Carlson, Faculty Director, Emmett Institute on Climate Change & the Environment (moderator)

During this session, Robert Hampshire will share several in-depth case studies of national significance on the role of innovation in roadway safety, aviation safety, supply chain disruptions, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) drones. Based on firsthand experiences from leading the US Department of Transportation research and technology enterprise, he will highlight the role that a mission-focused approach to innovation can play in addressing some of our most important societal challenges. In order to eliminate transportation fatalities, pollution and carbon emissions, and to serve all travelers, a collaborative multi-stakeholder, multi-industry approach is required. He took this approach during his time as a political appointee and senior leader in the US Department of Transportation during the Biden-Harris administration.
About the Speaker
On January 20, 2021, Hampshire was sworn in and performed the duties of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology at the United States Department of Transportation, and served as the department’s Chief Science Officer, becoming the first to fill the role in over 40 years.
In this role he led the $2B research and technology portfolio of USDOT and agenda across all modes of transportation. His office included the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Cambridge, MA), Transportation Safety Institute (Oklahoma City, OK), Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and the Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office, the SMART grant program, University Transportation Centers grant program , Advanced Research Projects Agency for Infrastructure (ARPA-I), Climate Change Center, Office of Position Navigation and Timing (PNT) and Spectrum management, ant the Highly Automated Safe System Center of Excellence (HASS COE).
On Jan 21, 2025, Hampshire returned to his faculty position at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan. His research applies a blend of public policy, operations research, data science, and systems approaches to analyze novel transportation systems such as smart parking, connected vehicles, autonomous vehicles, ride-hailing, bike sharing, car sharing, as well as, pedestrian and bicyclist safety. His research focuses on environmental impacts, equity, and access to opportunities. His work has been cited widely, and covered by major press outlets. He has worked extensively with both public and private sector partners worldwide. He has also been a faculty member at Carnegie Mellon University and a visiting professor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Hampshire received a PhD in operations research and financial engineering from Princeton University.

Public Transportation

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)
Santa Monica Municipal Bus Lines – “Big Blue Bus”
Culver City Municipal Bus Lines
LADOT Commuter Express
Antelope Valley Transit Authority
Santa Clarita Transit
Metrolink (Commuter Trains)
LAX Transportation Services

Map, Direction & Parking
View Large Map
Direction: From the 405 freeway, exit on Wilshire Boulevard East. Turn left on Westwood. Proceed north onto the UCLA campus.
Parking: The nearest parking to the venue is LOT 7. You may purchase a parking permit through the Bruin ePermit system and at self-service pay stations. An all day pass currently costs $16 per vehicle and $5 per vehicles with handicapped placard.
For more information, please visit UCLA Parking Rates and Fees.

The UCLA Luskin Lecture Series enhances public discourse on topics relevant to the betterment of society. The Series features renowned public intellectuals, bringing together scholars as well as national and local leaders to address society’s most pressing problems. Lectures encourage interactive, lively discourse across traditional divides between the worlds of research, policy and practice. The Series demonstrates UCLA Luskin’s commitment to encouraging innovative breakthroughs and creative solutions to formidable public policy challenges.
The UCLA Institute of Transportation’s Wachs Lecture Series draws innovative thinkers to the University of California to address today’s most pressing issues in transportation. Created by students to honor Professor Martin Wachs upon his retirement from the University, the lecture rotates between Berkeley and UCLA, the campuses at which Marty taught. He passed away April 12, 2021.
Photo Release: By attending this event, you will be entering an area where photography, audio and video recording may occur. With your presence, you authorize UCLA Luskin and its licensees to photograph you, make sound and/or video recordings of you, and use the recordings for marketing, publicity and promotion of this event and UCLA Luskin generally. Please click on the link for the full UCLA Luskin Notice of Filming Release.
Attendance by a public official will constitute acceptance of a reportable gift.
The Luskin School of Public Affairs at UCLA acknowledges the Gabrielino/Tongva peoples as the traditional land caretakers of Tovaangar (the Los Angeles basin and So. Channel Islands). As a land grant institution, we pay our respects to the Honuukvetam (Ancestors), ‘Ahiihirom (Elders) and ‘Eyoohiinkem (our relatives/relations) past, present and emerging.

To Pivot or Not to Pivot: Alumni Navigating Career Trajectories
2025-04-29 12:00 - 13:15 | 2355 Public Affairs, 337 Charles E Young Dr, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Overview:
In today’s dynamic professional landscape, career trajectories are seldom linear. Professionals often encounter pivotal moments that prompt them to reassess and redirect their career paths. This panel brings together UCLA Luskin alumni who have navigated subtle to significant career transitions, offering insights into their decision-making processes, challenges faced, and the rewards of embracing change.
Lunch will be provided to all registrants to promote discussion.
Objectives:

Explore Motivations: Understand the personal and professional factors that lead individuals to consider career pivots.
Share Experiences: Hear firsthand accounts of the challenges and opportunities encountered during career transitions.
Highlight Strategies: Discuss the strategies and resources that facilitated successful pivots, including the role of transferable skills and networking.
Provide Guidance: Offer advice to those contemplating or undergoing career changes, emphasizing resilience and adaptability.
Network: Build relationships with alumni

Audience:
This event is tailored for current students, alumni, faculty, and professionals interested in career development, transitions, and the evolving nature of professional journeys.
Format:

Panelist Introductions (10 minutes): Each panelist will briefly share their background and the nature of their career transition.
Moderated Discussion (45 minutes): Engage in a guided conversation addressing key themes such as decision-making, overcoming obstacles, and leveraging transferable skills.
Audience Q&A (15 minutes): Open the floor to questions from attendees, fostering an interactive dialogue.

Takeaways:
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in career pivots and be equipped with practical insights to navigate their professional journeys confidently.
This panel aims to inspire and empower individuals to approach career transitions with intentionality and purpose.

International Youth Conference
2025-05-01 - 2025-05-04 | UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Theme: “Youth Shaping Global Development”
The International Youth Conference 11 (IYC11), organized by the International Organization of Youth (IOY) and hosted by The UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, is a premier global platform that brings together youth from around the world to engage, deliberate, and contribute to multilateral solutions for a better future.
IYC11 will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including civil society leaders, ambassadors, youth activists, academics, and experts in international peace and security, science and technology, and global governance transformation. The conference fosters meaningful dialogue, networking, and collaboration across borders.

Key Topics of Discussion:

Policy Leadership and Global Advocacy

Bridging Gaps in Development

Economic Progress and Environmental Resilience

Digital Innovation and Transformation

Youth Empowerment and Capacity Building

Human Rights, Peace, and Security

Addressing Global Challenges and Opportunities

Organized by the International Organization of Youth in Collaboration with:

UN-Habitat

United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)

United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Los Angeles County Department of Youth Development

United Nations Association of UCLA (UNA UCLA)

IAAI Glocha

Register now: https://iycforyouth.org/registration/

Speaker Applications:
Are you passionate about one or more of the key topics and wish to share your expertise at IYC11?
Apply to be a speaker: https://iycforyouth.org/speaker-interest/

Young Alumni Building Green Futures Panel
2025-05-01 12:15 - 13:15 | Room 2355 Public Affairs Building, 337 Charles E. Young Drive East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
PLEASE NOTE: THIS EVENT WILL NOW BE HELD IN THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS BUILDING, ROOM 2355, on May 1st from 12-1 p.m.
Join us for the “Young Alumni Building Green Futures” panel, where dynamic UCLA Luskin young alumni will discuss their journeys in the sustainability sector. This event will showcase the innovative ways these alumni tackle environmental challenges, from green consulting to sustainable business practices, while shaping a more sustainable future.
Hear firsthand accounts of their unique paths, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and their impact on the environment and communities. Whether you’re exploring a career in sustainability or simply passionate about making a difference, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain inspiration, insights, and guidance from those leading the charge.
Why Attend?

Get inspired by young alumni who are making a real impact in sustainability.
Learn about career opportunities and strategies in the green sector.
Network with like-minded peers and professionals committed to building a better future.

Moderator and Panelists:

Elena Hernandez MURP ’22 (moderator), Senior Project Manager, UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation

Sharon Sand MURP ’20, Senior Public Grants Program Manager at Trust for Public Land
Sarah Perez BA ‘22 Urban, Planner at Raimi + Associates

Edgar Reyna MURP ’23, Climate Resilience Sr. Analyst at Office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

Lunch will be provided to encourage conversation, but please bring your water bottle to support our sustainability efforts.
We look forward to seeing you there for a thought-provoking discussion and a chance to connect with the next generation of sustainability leaders!
This event is co-sponsor by LCI and OSAAR.

Student Legal Services Drop-In Hour
2025-05-06 00:00
The mission of Student Legal Services is to prevent, ameliorate, or resolve legal problems that confront students by providing professional legal counseling and assistance. Student Legal Services also seeks to educate students about their legal rights and responsibilities through informational programs and materials, as well as individual counseling.
This event will feature a free 20-25 min one-on-one consultation.

UCLA Fitwell Chair Massages
2025-05-06 12:00 - 14:00 | 6326 Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
Come join us for a day of wellness and relaxation! UCLA Recreation Free 5 min massages offer a a chance to destress. I look forward to seeing you all there. Registration, and completion of waivers for this event is mandatory.

Fascism or Eco-populism - Our Stark Choice
2025-05-07 19:00 - 21:00 | UCLA Nimoy Theater, 1262 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, 90024, United States
The UCLA Luskin Institute on Inequality and Democracy is pleased to present author and journalist Naomi Klein, Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia, who will deliver the third annual Distinguished Lecture in Ideas and Organizing entitled, Fascism or Eco-Populism – Our Stark Choice. Join us for this in-person program at the historic UCLA Nimoy Theater that will inspire us to think about climate justice in relation to the political economy of global warfare and imperialism.
A discussion moderated by Institute Founding Faculty Director Ananya Roy will follow, with Klein joined by UCLA scholars Hannah Appel and Kian Goh.
Naomi Klein is an award-winning journalist and New York Times bestselling author. She is a columnist with The Guardian. In 2018 she was named the inaugural Gloria Steinem Endowed Chair at Rutgers University and is now Honorary Professor of Media and Climate at Rutgers. In September 2021 she joined the University of British Columbia as UBC Professor of Climate Justice (tenured) and co-director of the Centre for Climate Justice.

Understanding Your Finances --What Does Wellness Have to Do With It?
2025-05-08 12:30 - 13:30 | 5391 Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
Come join the UCLA Financial Wellness team for a self-reflection and dialogue space to examine our relationships to money, tools for coping with financial stress and entry level tips on budgeting, loans and credit.

Inaugural Latino Policy Day 2025
2025-05-15 12:00 - 17:30 | UCLA Hershey Hall, 801 Hilgard Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095, Room: Hershey Salon, 801 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Join us at LPPI’s inaugural Latino Policy Day to introduce the UCLA community (students, faculty, staff, and alumni) to groundbreaking work that LPPI has supported in the areas of housing and homeownership, education, and immigration and health. Panels will feature our experts and issue-specific leaders.
Program Agenda:
12:00 PM Lunch and Alumni Panel

Moderator: Estrella Torres, policy fellow, UCLA LPPI
Panelist: Jose Alvarez, senior associate, Estolano Advisors
Panelist: Heidy Melchor, district office liaison, LA City Council Office of Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez
Panelist: Lupe Renteria Salome, data analyst, USC Equity Research Institute

1:00 PM Welcome Remarks

Dr. Arturo Vargas Bustamante, faculty director of research, UCLA LPPI

1:15 PM Latinos in California’s Community College Bachelor’s Degree Programs: What We Know So Far (45 min.)
Presentation by Dr. Cecilia Rios-Aguilar, professor and associate dean of equity, diversity, and Inclusion, UCLA School of Education and Information Studies
Panel Discussion:

Moderator: Dr. Silvia González, director of research, UCLA Latino Policy and Politics
Panelist: Dr. Cecilia Rios-Aguilar, professor and associate dean of equity, diversity, and inclusion, UCLA School of Education and Information Studies
Panelist: Dr. Patricia Ramos, dean of academic affairs, Santa Monica College
Panelist: Dr. Elizabeth Gonzalez, chief program & strategy officer, College Futures Foundation

2:00 PM Break (15 min.)
2:15 PM House Rich, Access Poor: Refinancing Challenges for Latino and Black Homeowners in Los Angeles County (45 min.)
Presentation by Dr. Jose Loya, assistant professor, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, featuring Gabriella Carmona, senior research analyst, UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
Panel Discussion:

Moderator/Panelist: Gabriella Carmona, senior research analyst, UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
Panelist: Dr. Jose Loya, assistant professor, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs
Panelist: Jonathan Sanabria, program officer, Conrad Hilton Foundation & Council Member, City of Huntington Park
Panelist: Noerena Limon, chief executive pfficer, Casita Coalition

3:00 PM Break (15 min.)
3:15 PM Expanding Insurance to all Immigrants: Lessons from Illinois’ HBIA/HBIS (45 min.)
Presentation by Dr. Aresha Martinez, assistant professor, University of Chicago Department of Public Health Sciences
Panel Discussion:

Moderator: Dr. Arturo Bustamante, faculty director of research, UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute
Panelist: Dr. Aresha Martinez, assistant professor, University of Chicago Department of Public Health Sciences
Panelist: Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno), assemblymember, California State Legislature
Panelist: Mar Velez, director, Latino Coalition for Healthy California

4:00 PM Closing Remarks

Dr. Amada Armenta, faculty director, UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute

4:15 PM Reception
5:30 PM End

UCLA Los Angeles Transportation Forum: Mega Events, Major Opportunities
2025-05-19 | The California Endowment, 1000 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA, 90012, United States
After more than four decades, the Olympic and Paralympic Games are returning to Los Angeles in 2028. A central theme of the roughly three-week event will be a “transit-first” or “car-free” Games – a bold vision put forth by event organizers, transit agencies, and city officials. In a city known for its car culture, however, this is no small task.
Continuing the conversation from the UCLA Arrowhead Symposium this past fall, the 2025 UCLA Los Angeles Transportation Forum will focus on how mega events like the World Cup, Super Bowl and Olympics and Paralympics can also present major opportunities for creating solutions that address shorter-term event needs — while also building capacity for long-term benefits to the region.
On May 19th, researchers, local experts, and industry leaders will facilitate discussions on two key legacy areas: enhancing LA’s transit system and universal access, including fixing the city’s sidewalks. As the countdown to 2028 continues, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about progress in these areas to date and what remains to be done over the next three years. The Forum will conclude with a session on the late Donald Shoup’s legacy on parking practice and innovations for transit-oriented Olympic Games.
Registration
General: $50
Student & Nonprofit: $25
For an up-to-date list of speakers and the day’s programming, visit the UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies event page.

LGBTQ+ Equality and the 2025 Landscape
2025-05-20 17:00 - 19:30 | UCLA Kerckhoff Hall Grand Salon, 308 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, 90095
This event is part of the Luskin Lecture Series and will feature Tony Hoang from Equality California and Silver State Equality.
RSVP HERE
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Check-in and Reception
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Program
RSVP required for admittance. Admission is free, but registration is required for each attendee.

Description
Featured speaker: Tony Hoang, Executive Director, Equality California and Silver State Equality
Over the past quarter-century, California has spearheaded tough civil rights protections for the LGBTQ+ community that have become a model for the nation. As we move through 2025, new challenges and opportunites are emerging in the fight for full equality, especially in the wake of the 2024 election and shifting political dynamics.
In this UCLA Luskin Lecture, LGBTQ+ rights leader Tony Hoang will share the high points of the fight for full lived equality and identify how to defend against efforts to dismantle the progress. Hoang is executive director of Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ advocacy organization. For over 25 years, the nonprofit has advanced civil rights legislation at the local, state and national level, and helped elect hundreds of pro-equality candidates to office, up and down the ballot.
About the Speaker
The son of Vietnam War refugees and the first person in his family to attend college, Tony Hoang grew up understanding the marginalized intersections of sexuality, gender, race and immigration status. As a college student, he joined Equality California as a field intern in 2009, beginning his long career with the organization. Hoang also serves as executive director of the Nevada-based Silver State Equality, a member of the City of Los Angeles Innovation and Performance Commission, and a UCLA Luskin Senior Fellow.

Public Transportation

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)
Santa Monica Municipal Bus Lines – “Big Blue Bus”
Culver City Municipal Bus Lines
LADOT Commuter Express
Antelope Valley Transit Authority
Santa Clarita Transit
Metrolink (Commuter Trains)
LAX Transportation Services

Map, Direction & Parking
View map
Direction: From the 405 freeway, exit on Wilshire Boulevard East. Turn left on Westwood. Proceed north onto the UCLA campus.
Parking: The nearest parking lots to the venue are Parking Structure 4, Parking Structure 8, and Parking Structure 9. You may purchase a parking permit through the Bruin ePermit system and at self-service pay stations. An all day pass currently costs $16 per vehicle and $5 per vehicles with handicapped placard.
For more information, please visit UCLA Parking Rates and Fees.

The UCLA Luskin Lecture Series enhances public discourse on topics relevant to the betterment of society. The Series features renowned public intellectuals, bringing together scholars as well as national and local leaders to address society’s most pressing problems. Lectures encourage interactive, lively discourse across traditional divides between the worlds of research, policy and practice. The Series demonstrates UCLA Luskin’s commitment to encouraging innovative breakthroughs and creative solutions to formidable public policy challenges.
Photo Release: By attending this event, you will be entering an area where photography, audio and video recording may occur. With your presence, you authorize UCLA Luskin and its licensees to photograph you, make sound and/or video recordings of you, and use the recordings for marketing, publicity and promotion of this event and UCLA Luskin generally. Please click on the link for the full UCLA Luskin Notice of Filming Release.
Attendance by a public official will constitute acceptance of a reportable gift.
The Luskin School of Public Affairs at UCLA acknowledges the Gabrielino/Tongva peoples as the traditional land caretakers of Tovaangar (the Los Angeles basin and So. Channel Islands). As a land grant institution, we pay our respects to the Honuukvetam (Ancestors), ‘Ahiihirom (Elders) and ‘Eyoohiinkem (our relatives/relations) past, present and emerging.

Closing Reception for 2025 UCLA Activists-in-Residence
2025-06-03 17:00 - 19:00 | James West Alumni Center – Collins Patio, 325 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
With a shared commitment to “turn the university inside out” and invite artists, community organizers, and movement leaders to undertake power-shifting scholarship and pedagogy focused on social change, the UCLA Luskin Institute on Inequality and Democracy, the UCLA Asian American Studies Center, cityLAB-UCLA, and the UCLA Center for the Study of Women|Barbra Streisand Center are pleased to celebrate the 2025 UCLA Activists-in-Residence: Lupita Limón Corrales, Kaya Dantzler, Kari Okubo, Romarilyn Ralston, and James Suazo.
Learn more about each of the UCLA Activists-in-Residence here and please join us to hear about the projects our activists have been involved in over the course of their residencies at this year’s closing reception.
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Parking information: The nearest parking lot is Parking Structure 8 (501 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095). Pay-by-space parking is available on level 4 (rooftop) of Parking Structure 8. Structure 8 has a pedestrian bridge on the 3rd level.
Only cash and credit cards may be used at campus payment stations/kiosks. Pay stations accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express for your convenience. Pay stations only accept $1, $5, and $10 bills and do not give change in the form of cash or credit. Park in an unmarked space and place the permit on your car dashboard so it is visible.

Meet and Greet with Ambassador Nathalie Rayes, MPP '99
2025-06-11 16:00 - 17:30 | 5th Floor Atrium Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
UCLA Luskin Graduate Students and Graduating Seniors are invited to a Meet and Greet with former United States Ambassador to Croatia, Nathalie Rayes, who is also the 2025 Commencement Speaker UCLA Luskin Commencement Speaker!
With a reputation as a transformational leader, Rayes has had a remarkable career characterized by public service, philanthropy, business strategy, advocacy, and diplomacy. On June 13, she will return to UCLA Luskin to serve as keynote speaker for the 2025 commencement ceremonies to be held at UCLA’s historic Royce Hall and Ackerman Grand Ballroom. Rayes, who holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from UCLA and a Master of Public Policy degree from UCLA Luskin, was named UCLA Luskin Public Policy Alumna of the Year in 2014.

Roots of Cool Art Exhibition: Opening Reception
2025-07-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, 91011, United States
Join us for the opening reception of Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World a series of indoor and outdoor art installations at the Sturt Haaga Gallery and Boddy House of Descanso Gardens. Meet the curators, Edith de Guzman of UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation and Jolly de Guzman, and enjoy a no-host bar and live music.
Why attend: Roots of Cool invites visitors to connect to and cultivate appreciation for the life-giving role trees play in making urban neighborhoods livable.
When: Friday, July 11, 2025, from 5-7pm. Admission to Descanso is free on July 11 from 5–7pm for the opening reception. RSVPs are not required to attend the event.
Location: Sturt Haaga Gallery and Boddy House, Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Hosted by: Descanso Gardens, with curation by Edith de Guzman and Jolly de Guzman. This exhibition and its programs were curated in partnership with UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, University of California Division of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Los Angeles Center for Urban Natural Resources Sustainability, TreePeople, USDA Forest Service, Arroyo Arts Collective, The Nature of Cities, Avenue 50 Studio, USC Public Exchange, Dashboard.Earth, and Accelerate Resilience Los Angeles.
Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World runs from July 12-October 12, 10am-4pm daily at the Sturt Haaga Gallery, the Boddy House, and throughout the Gardens. Learn more here.

Made in the Shade Event at Descanso Gardens
2025-07-25 16:30 - 19:00 | Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, 91011, United States
Experience the Descanso Gardens in a whole new way through Cultivate, a monthly series that features tours, workshops, live demonstrations, and music throughout the gardens. July’s theme “Made in the Shade,” will compliment the exhibition Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World, which features curation by Edith de Guzman of UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation and Jolly de Guzman.
Why attend: Roots of Cool explores the topic of shade equity as installations throughout the gardens and in the gallery, featuring 13 women artists and an art collective, invite visitors to connect to and cultivate appreciation for the life-giving role trees play in making urban neighborhoods livable.
Cost: Entry to this event is included in the price of admission or membership, no event registration required. See event page here.
When: Friday, July 25, 2025, from 4:30-7:00pm
Location: Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Hosted by: Descanso Gardens, with curation by Edith de Guzman of UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation and Jolly de Guzman. This exhibition and its programs were curated in partnership with UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, University of California Division of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Los Angeles Center for Urban Natural Resources Sustainability, TreePeople, USDA Forest Service, Arroyo Arts Collective, The Nature of Cities, Avenue 50 Studio, USC Public Exchange, Dashboard.Earth, and Accelerate Resilience Los Angeles.
Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World runs from July 12-October 12, 10am-4pm daily at the Sturt Haaga Gallery, the Boddy House, and throughout the Gardens. Entry to the exhibition is included in the price of admission or membership. Learn more here.
Schedule:
Thermogram Photo Booth

Use a specialized photo booth that uses infrared technology to capture heat signatures and bodily heat maps.
4:30–7pm

Summer Tree Care Workshop

Summer in Los Angeles County can get HOT. Learn about how to help your trees beat the heat in this workshop.
5–5:45pm
6–6:45pm

Heat Scavenger Hunt

Led by Descanso Gardens docents, explore the gardens with the use of a digital thermometer to explore heat and climatic zones.
4:30–7pm

Hands-on Craft

Get crafty with us at Cultivate!
4:30–7pm

Ask an Expert

Meet a member of the Horticultural department and ask any questions you might have.
4:30–7pm

Flashdance DJs

Enjoy a mix of classic hits and contemporary songs by our popular guest DJs.
4:30–7pm

A Celebration of Cool, part of the Roots of Cool Art Exhibition
2025-08-02 10:00 - 16:00 | Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, 91011, United States
In conjunction with the Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World exhibition, celebrate shade throughout Los Angeles at A Celebration of Cool! This day-long event will include panel discussions on shade equity, a thermal imaging booth, a heat scavenger hunt, a giant puppet parade, tree give-aways, art workshops and more.
Why attend: These educational, action-oriented events will offer activities for the whole family and invite everyone to take action. Roots of Cool explores the topic of shade equity as installations throughout the gardens and in the gallery, featuring 13 women artists and an art collective, invite visitors to connect to and cultivate appreciation for the life-giving role trees play in making urban neighborhoods livable.
Cost: Entry to this event is included in the price of admission or membership, no event registration required. See event page here.
When: Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 10:00am-4:00pm
Location: Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Hosted by: Descanso Gardens, with curation by Edith de Guzman of UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation and Jolly de Guzman. This exhibition and its programs were curated in partnership with UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, University of California Division of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Los Angeles Center for Urban Natural Resources Sustainability, TreePeople, USDA Forest Service, Arroyo Arts Collective, The Nature of Cities, Avenue 50 Studio, USC Public Exchange, Dashboard.Earth, and Accelerate Resilience Los Angeles.
Roots of Cool: A Celebration of Trees and Shade in a Warming World runs from July 12-October 12, 10am-4pm daily at the Sturt Haaga Gallery, the Boddy House, and throughout the Gardens. Entry to the exhibition is included in the price of admission or membership. Learn more here.

Vote16USA National Convening 2025
2025-08-05 - 2025-08-06 | 3250N Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
We’re beyond thrilled to announce a powerful new partnership with the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs to bring the Vote16USA National Convening to life! Mark your calendars for August 5th & 6th because something big is coming to the UCLA and you won’t want to miss it.
This is more than just an event. It’s a national gathering of energy, strategy, and purpose, where youth organizers, educators, advocates, and changemakers from across the country will unite to propel the movement to lower the voting age to 16 forward like never before.
Get ready for two days packed with inspiring speakers, hands-on workshops, movement-building moments, and unforgettable connections. Whether you’re a student leading change in your community, a policymaker ready to take bold action, or an educator passionate about civic engagement, this convening is for YOU.
The future of democracy is youthful, powerful, and unstoppable. Be part of the movement that’s rewriting the rules and reshaping what civic leadership looks like in America.

Master of Real Estate Development Webinar
2025-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Online
Get acquainted with the advantages of a Master of Real Estate Development degree from UCLA Luskin without needing to set foot on campus.
Come learn about:
• The field of Real Estate Development
• MRED curriculum
• Professional Development opportunities
• Capstone projects
• What sets UCLA apart
• How to apply
Register here!

Social Welfare MSW Admissions Information Session
2025-09-20 10:00 - 12:00 | 2343 Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, United States
REGISTER HERE
Thinking about pursuing your Master of Social Welfare at UCLA Luskin? Join us for our MSW Admissions Information Session on Saturday, September 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This interactive session is a great opportunity to learn everything you need to know about the program — from admissions requirements and application deadlines to curriculum highlights and the practicum experience. We’ll also talk about tuition, funding options, and the wide range of career opportunities available to MSW graduates. Whether you’re just starting to explore graduate school or already preparing your application, this session will give you valuable insight into what makes UCLA Luskin’s MSW program unique.
Feel free to bring your own food and drink.

Luskin Graduate Student Orientation
2025-09-22 08:30 - 14:00 | 147 Dodd Hall, 315 Portola Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Welcome to the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs!
Incoming graduate students from Public Policy, Social Welfare and Urban Planning will learn about resources at UCLA Luskin and throughout campus during this orientation gathering.
Mandatory in-person training on equity, diversity and inclusion for incoming graduate students. Training includes workshops and guided discussions on how issues such as racism, sexism and privilege impact our world view. Please direct EPA Training questions to Erin Collins at erinc@luskin.ucla.edu.
Date: Monday, September 22, 2025
Location: Dodd Hall, Room 147
Schedule:
8:30 a.m.

Outdoor breakfast reception and check-in

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

UCLA graduate student services
Student health – Ashe Center, counseling
Library services
Luskin IT services and computer lab
Luskin fellowships
Luskin Office of Student Affairs and Alumni Relations

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Equity in Public Affairs training

12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Departmental breakout lunches

Public Policy will have lunch at Coral Tree Walk
Social Welfare will have lunch at Public Affairs Building, 3rd Floor Roof and Patio
Urban Planning will have lunch at Public Affairs Building, Room 2355

Resources
Printable orientation map and schedule
UCLA Luskin Graduate Resource Library: This landing page contains helpful information on graduate student resources provided by the university and the Luskin School.
Title IX Training: UCLA requires all first-year graduate and professional students to complete a one-hour online training session on prevention of sexual violence and sexual harassment. The university’s Title IX Office will contact students directly. FAQ

Luskin School of Public Affairs Undergraduate Program Open House
2025-09-23 13:00 - 15:00 | 3383 Public Affairs Building, 3383 Public Affairs Building, 3rd Floor Commons Rooftop, Los Angeles, 90024, United States
REGISTER HERE
The UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs faculty and staff invite you to attend the Public Affairs Undergraduate Program Open House to learn how the Public Affairs major aligns with your interests.

Luskin School of Public Affairs Undergraduate Program Open House
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
1:00pm – 3:00pm (PT)
3383 Public Affairs Building, 3rd Floor Commons Rooftop

The Public Affairs Undergraduate Program Open House is intended to introduce first and second-year students and incoming transfer students to the Public Affairs major and the Luskin School of Public Affairs. The Open House will feature a welcome from the Luskin Interim Dean, Chair of the Undergraduate Program, and Luskin counselors. Students will also have the opportunity connect with Luskin faculty, staff, and peers. Luskin counselors will be available to speak with you about your interest in the Public Affairs major, or any of the three Luskin minors (Gerontology, Public Affairs, Urban and Regional Studies).
Lunch will be served and attendees will receive Luskin swag!
Register to Attend
Register HERE to attend. Walk-ins are welcomed.
Can’t make it to the Public Affairs Undergraduate Program Open House?
Contact the Public Affairs Undergraduate Program via MyUCLA Message Center to speak with a Luskin counselor!

Urban Planning Admissions Webinar
2025-09-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Los Angeles, United States
Come learn more about the Urban Planning MURP and PhD programs and how to navigate their respective application processes.
Learn more about:
• The field of Urban Planning
• MURP curriculum
• Areas of concentration
• Internships & Career Services
• International study opportunities
• Capstone projects
• Concurrent degrees
• Certificate programs
• Alumni/job placement
Register here!
