UCLA Latino Alumni Association
Quarterly Newsletter | Winter 2026
UCLA alum
Two people at a UCLA alumni award event.
With gratitude for our community and pride in our shared legacy, the UCLA Latino Alumni Association moves forward with purpose. This moment calls us to recommit to uplifting the next generation of Latino leaders and strengthening our Bruin network.

We invite you to stay engaged with ULAA through mentorship, networking and volunteer opportunities. Your time, talent and generosity power our mission. You can also support student scholarships to help UCLA's education remain accessible for future Bruins. Together, we continue to build a community rooted in familia, leadership and impact.
upcoming events
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Honoring Our Voices — Feb. 24 | 6–8 p.m. | Latinx Success Center | Free | Guided plática with Rosa Benavides. RSVP
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SF Dinner for 12 Strangers — Feb. 21, 22 and 28 | 6–8 p.m. | Hayes Valley | Free | Board-hosted dinner with sponsored tapas. Join us
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Pickleball Tournament — March 29 | 8 a.m.–1 p.m. | Gerrish Swim and Tennis Club | All levels welcome. RSVP link coming soon
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ULAA at Santa Ana College — April 9 | Time TBD | Inspiring future Bruins. Details soon
pride and support
A campus scene showing a person standing near tall UCLA “Go Bruins” banners hanging from a pole beneath large trees.
Show the Love
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, ULAA continues its tradition of “Show the Love,” honoring the donors who sustain our work. We also celebrate the success of the Siempre Adelante: Forever Forward campaign, which reached 234% of its fundraising goal. Thank you for your continued commitment to Latino Bruins and to the future we are building together.
bruin spotlight
Elizabeth Gonzalez
Alumni Spotlight: Elizabeth Gonzalez ’09, Ph.D.
We proudly spotlight Elizabeth Gonzalez ’09, Ph.D., UCLA’s inaugural director of Hispanic-Serving Institution readiness. She leads campuswide efforts to achieve federal HSI designation and enhance the experience of Latinx students, ensuring UCLA remains a place where our community can thrive.
event recap
A group of people pose together on the sideline of a basketball court inside a large arena filled with spectators and bright overhead lights.
UCLA Basketball: LOS BRUINS Night
ULAA joined Juanita Duran '06, Alexis Aleman '27 and Coach Jim Harrick for “Los Bruins” night, celebrating UCLA’s victory over ASU alongside board members and network leaders.
A group of people stand together in front of a presentation screen displaying a colorful event poster, posing for a photo in a conference-style setting.
La Estrella Film Screening
Centering Latino Health and Futures
ULAA partnered with Song for Charlie, Foos in Medicine, the California surgeon general and student-athletes for a screening and discussion focused on health, awareness and community impact.
A large group of people pose together in a brightly lit indoor space, smiling and gathered closely in front of a carpeted floor and ceiling lights.
UCLA Community Friendsgiving
Celebrating Community Before the Holidays
ULAA, the Latinx Success Center and the Undocumented Student Program brought alumni and students together for an evening of food, conversation and connection.
Two people stand side by side with one person’s arm around the other, posing in front of a UCLA-themed backdrop near a shop entrance.
Sacred Lessons: A Bruin’s Journey of Intergenerational Healing
Stories of Resilience and Reflection
Julio Garcia II ’04, Cert. ’25, moderated Mike de la Rocha ’00’s talk at Tepito Coffee, creating space for dialogue on healing, identity and empowerment.
A group of people stand together in a warmly lit room decorated with wall art and hanging ornaments, posing for a group photo.
Santa Monica Mixer
Bruins Connect by the Beach
More than 20 alumni gathered at Gilbert’s El Indio for networking, meaningful conversation and Bruin pride.
A group of people dressed in formal and semi‑formal attire pose together in a brightly lit event hall with decorative wall art and chandeliers in the background.
LA County Judges Night
Creating Access and Opportunity
Juanita Duran ’06 welcomed ULAA board members and Latina students to the CCBA Annual Judges Night, connecting Bruins with judges and legal professionals across Los Angeles.
Two people stand together in front of a UCLA-themed backdrop, with one holding a framed certificate during an outdoor event.
ULAA Winter Fundraising Reception
An Evening of Celebration and Impact
The Whittier reception honored inspiring leaders and raised critical scholarship funds, made possible by our hosts, the Moisas, and the ULAA community.
merchandise available
ULAA tote bag
Take Bruin pride wherever you go while supporting ULAA’s mission. This versatile tote is perfect for work, campus and alumni events.
Shop the Tote
ULAA hat
Top off your look with Bruin pride while supporting ULAA’s mission. This classic cap is perfect for work, campus and alumni events.
Shop the Hat
get involved
2026–27 Board Nominations
ULAA is seeking leaders to serve on the Board of Directors for the 2026–27 term. Submit nominations by Friday, April 17, 2026. View the nomination form for details or email latino@alumni.ucla.edu with questions.
Learn More
Community Partner Spotlight
The UCLA Latino Alumni Association is launching Community Partner Spotlight — a new series celebrating Latinx-owned businesses, organizations, students and alumni making an impact.

Know an inspiring Bruin or community partner? Nominate them today!
Nominate Now
A smiling man in a blue hoodie and glasses has his arm around a woman wearing a black jacket and name badge as they sit together at an outdoor table.
Volunteer With UCLA Latino Alumni Association
Join a community committed to uplifting Latino Bruins by contributing your time and skills in areas such as marketing, events and student engagement. Whether monthly or per event, your involvement strengthens ULAA’s impact and builds lasting connections.
Sign Up to Volunteer
Corporate Sponsorships
ULAA seeks corporate and foundation partners to expand our impact. Alumni working at companies or business owners can explore sponsorship tiers that directly support scholarships, programming and community initiatives.
Learn More
The Association’s work has always been, and will continue to be, to strengthen the Bruin community.
 
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