As we transition into the spring season, growth and new beginnings of all kinds surround us. Students across the campus, in our undergraduate, graduate and professional school programs, will soon begin their final term at UCLA, and the spirited energy of graduation celebrations will fill the air. While this incredibly exciting time is often focused on our students and their loved ones, we believe this is also a valuable time for us all to take the time and space for mindful reflection on our present and future purpose. What were some of the dreams you had when you began your final term at UCLA? How have those dreams evolved over time?
Navigating life after graduation can be both exciting and challenging for our new alumni as they enter a time that can lack clear direction and guidance. For those of us who graduated several years ago, we know that embracing the non-linear path, staying curious and considering the many ways that we can have a positive impact on our communities makes all the difference. Nurturing and expanding our support systems is also essential. Through our Alumni programs, resources and networks, there are many opportunities for you to connect and build with alumni from all generations. Further in this issue you will see some of the upcoming virtual and in-person events that our diversity networks are hosting.
Our featured alumnus in this issue, Giovanny Machedo ’19, reflects upon his experiences as a young alumni leader coming from a system-impacted background and how this context inspired him to give back and support those in similar circumstances to excel academically and professionally. Machedo also discusses his leadership serving the UCLA Latino Alumni Association as the University Relations co-chair and the fulfillment that volunteerism has brought to his life. Regardless of the life or career stage you are in, we are here for you and we encourage you to lean into your passion and explore those outlets that bring you a sense of purpose.
Exceeding Expectations: Volunteering as a Recent Grad With Giovanny Machado ’19
In this issue, UCLA Latino Alumni Association University Relations Co-Chair Giovanny Machado ’19 shares what motivates him to be a leader and his experience as a volunteer with the UCLA Latino Alumni Association.
Since 1934, the UCLA Alumni Association's mission has been to enrich the lives of alumni and offer ways to engage in UCLA's future. With a connection to over 662,700 alumni across the globe, we're your channel for networking, giving back, engaging and pushing each other forward.
Applications are now open for the volunteer position of a three-year term on the UCLA Alumni Association Board of Directors beginning July 1. Applicants must be UCLA degree or certificate holders to be eligible for Alumni Board service. Submit an online application by March 30.
Gabriela Jaquez and Jaime Jaquez Jr. '23 joined Alicia Miñana de Lovelace, J.D. '87, chair of The UCLA Foundation Board of Directors, and husband, Rob Lovelace, at their Los Angeles home to raise funds for the Jaquez Family Scholarship Fund.
Read UCLA Newsroom coverage of the event and look forward to updates in fall 2024 when the first student beneficiaries of the fund established in collaboration with the UCLA Latino Alumni Association and UCLA Alumni Association will be awarded.
We are looking forward to a busy spring quarter with UCLA Alumni Diversity Networks. Consider attending one or more of these upcoming events and engaging with our alumni community.
