Tag Archives: BruinOwned

Books by Bruins - LGBTQ Stories

n celebration of Pride month, our Books by Bruins series features publications about LGBTQ topics ranging from personal memoirs to historical stories to humorous film critiques. As this compilation of Bruin authors grows, we’re categorizing the books into an online library, but we’ll need your help to make it as comprehensive as possible. If you know of one, please submit a Bruin author. While all these books are written by UCLA alumni, inclusion in the list is not an endorsement.

Movies That Made Me Gay (2023)

Larry Duplechan ʼ78

Larry Duplechan’s memoir transports viewers through Hollywood history with humorous film criticism while simultaneously covering his experience growing up as a Black gay man in the early 1960s. Duplechan is the author of five novels, including “Blackbird,” which is considered the first modern Black “coming-out” novel, and the Lambda Literary Award-winning “Got ‘til it’s Gone.”

Q&A: Voices From Queer Asian North America book Cover

Q&A: Voices from Queer Asian North America (2021)

Alice Hom, M.A. ʼ92

“Q&A: Voices from Queer Asian North America” considers how Asian American racial and queer sexuality interconnect in mutually shaping and complicating ways. Alice Y. Hom is an Asian American LGBTQ community activist and author, and the director of Equity and Social Justice for The Northern California GrantMakers. She is also the host of the Historically Queer Podcast. Her 1998 book, “Q&A: Queer in Asian America; Unifying Differences,” won the Lambda Literary Award for Best Book in Lesbian and Gay Anthologies/Non-Fiction.

Gay L.A.: A History of Sexual Outlaws, Power Politics, and Lipstick Lesbians (2009)

Stuart Timmons ʼ81

Drawing on rare archives and photographs as well as more than three hundred interviews, Lillian Faderman and Stuart Timmons chart L.A.'s unique gay history, from the first missionary encounters with Native American cross-gendered “two spirits” to cross-dressing frontier women in search of their fortunes; from the bohemian freedom of early Hollywood to the explosion of gay life during World War II to the underground radicalism set off by the 1950s blacklist; and from the 1960s gay liberation movement to the creation of gay marketing in the 1990s. While a student at UCLA, gay historian, activist and author Stuart Timmons cofounded Outfest, which has grown into one of the nation’s largest and most influential LGBT film festivals.

Queer American History: A Reader in Documents and Essays (2024)

Amy Sueyoshi, M.A. ʼ98, Ph.D. ʼ02

Sueyoshi bridges feminist, queer and ethnic studies to show how the white quest to forge new frontiers in gender and sexual freedom reinforced racial inequality through a pan-Asian American stereotype weighted with sexual and gender meaning. Amy Sueyoshi is the associate dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at San Francisco State University. She is the author of “Queer Compulsions: Race, Nation, and Sexuality in the Affairs of Yone Noguchi.”

It Rhymes with Takei (2025)

George Takei ʼ60, M.A. ʼ64

Following the award-winning bestseller “They Called Us Enemy,” George Takei’s new full-color graphic memoir reveals his most personal story. Takei has shown the world many faces: actor, author, outspoken activist, helmsman of the Starship Enterprise and living witness to the internment of Japanese Americans. Now, for the first time ever, he shares the full story of his life in the closet, his decision to come out as gay at the age of 68, and the way that moment transformed everything.

Twenty Years of Legal Marriage for Same-Sex Couples book cover

Twenty Years of Legal Marriage for Same-Sex Couples in the United States: Evidence Review and New Analyses (2024)

Benjamin Karney, M.A. ʼ92, Ph.D. ʼ97

It has been 20 years since the first marriage licenses were issued to same-sex couples in Massachusetts. The authors of this report draw on an evidence review and analyses that reveal that the benefits of access to legal marriage for same-sex couples are unambiguously positive. For the past 25 years, Dr. Benjamin Karney has been studying change and stability in intimate relationships, especially in the early years of marriage. His research relies upon longitudinal data, repeated measures, multilevel modeling and observational coding of couple interactions.

Love Comes First: Creating LGBTQ Families (2021)

Bradford Kolb, EMBA ʼ22

This first-hand account covers practical information from an organization specializing in adoption for LGBTQ parents as well as sperm donation from the largest sperm bank in the country. As president and managing director of HRC Fertility, Dr. Bradford Kolb is internationally known for having some of the highest rates of pregnancy success in the country. He has also been a pioneer in assisting LGBTQ families. Dr. Kolb is the president and board chair of Love Comes First, a nonprofit organization dedicated to furthering awareness of LGTBQ families via multimedia storytelling.

Mama's Boy: A Story from Our Americas (2019)

Dustin Lance Black ʼ96

Dustin Lance Black wrote the Oscar-winning screenplay for “Milk” and helped overturn California's anti-gay marriage Proposition 8, but he grew up in a conservative Mormon household outside San Antonio, Texas. His book explores what it took to remain a family despite such divisions — a journey that stretched from the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court to the wood sheds of East Texas. Black is an Oscar winner, a TFT alumnus and a veteran screenwriter, producer, director and playwright.

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Books by Bruins - Health and Wellness

ay is Mental Health Awareness Month. As part of our ongoing Books by Bruins series, we are featuring a compelling collection of books that focus on this theme in a variety of ways — from personal stories of healing to healthy cookbooks to finding peace in yoga and meditation. As this compilation of Bruin authors grows, we’re categorizing the books into an online library, but we’ll need your help to make it as comprehensive as possible. If you know of one, please submit a Bruin author. While all these books are written by UCLA alumni, inclusion in the list is not an endorsement.

Anti-Cancer Foods Meal Plan Cookbook: A 28 Days Quick, Easy and Nutritious Diet Guide for Cancer Patients (2023)

Margaret Paul, M.A. ʼ62

“The Anti-Cancer Foods Meal Plan Cookbook" is a guide to embracing the healing power of food. The book features delicious recipes to nourish your body and invigorate your spirit, explained by cancer survivor, Emily, who discovered the incredible potential of anti-cancer foods. Margaret Paul holds a Ph.D. in psychology and is a public speaker, educator, chaplain and artist. She is the author of several best-selling books that have been translated into 11 languages. She has appeared on many radio and TV shows, including the Oprah show. She has taught classes and seminars for individuals, couples and businesses since 1967.

Organic Soul: The Healing Power of African American Music in a World of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Mario Ewell, M.A. ʼ20

“Organic Soul” is an exploration of music's transformative power, focused on African American music’s profound impact on health and well-being. Stevie Wonder’s pioneering work with synthesizers influenced the development of technologies like advanced AI systems and voice interfaces. Discover how the rhythms, melodies and harmonies of African American music can reduce stress, boost immunity and enhance cognitive function. UCLA Graduate and Professional Student Alumni Network board member Mario Ewell brings his unique blend of creative vision and business acumen to this groundbreaking work.

The Kindness Advantage: Cultivating Compassionate and Connected Children (2018)

Dale Atkins, Ph.D. ’82

“The Kindness Advantage: Cultivating Compassionate and Connected Children” offers inspiration and activities to teach empathy, inspire a culture of compassion and connection, and empower children to make a difference in their community and the world. The book presents 10 fundamental concepts to weave into a family’s daily life including sections on relaxation, breathing, visualization and meditation. Dale Atkins is a licensed psychologist with a Ph.D. in educational philosophy. “The Kindness Advantage” is her seventh book.

Influenced: The Impact of Social Media On Our Perception (2022)

Brian Boxer Wachler (1984-1988)

This book explores what happens to our brains and our behaviors each time we addictively engage in social media. Brian Boxer Wachler argues that our reliance on social media has an impact on how we think, feel and perceive everything around us. “Dr. Brian” has devoted his career to the physical and mental intersection of how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. He is the medical director at his Beverly Hills institute and a staff physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He has written numerous articles and authored four popular medical books.

Recipe For Survival: What You Can Do to Live a Healthier and More Environmentally Friendly Life (2022)

Dana Ellis Hunnes, M.P.H. ʼ07, Ph.D. ʼ13

In her book “Recipe for Survival,” dietitian and environmentalist Dana Ellis Hunnes outlines the steps to becoming a healthier and more sustainable consumer and improving the health of the planet. Her research examines the relationships among climate change, food choices and food security, and how these affect our health, as well as the health of the planet and its oceans. Hunnes is an adjunct assistant professor with the Fielding School of Public Health at UCLA where she teaches courses on nutrition, chronic disease and the environment. She is a senior dietitian at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

The Psyche's Gifts: Art, Art Making, and the Journey from Mental Illness to Mental Wellness (2021)

Corinne Lightweaver ’85

"The Psyche's Gifts: Art, Art Making, and the Journey from Mental Illness," features a series of artworks that reflect Corinne Lightweaver’s personal experience of living with mental illness, including depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Working from her unconscious, she uses techniques of paper collage to access, reveal and artistically document her journey. Lightweaver is an artist, writer, editor and author. Her artistic journey began in painting, with wildlife as her favorite subject.

Off the Hook: How Forgiving You Frees Me (2019)

Dana Tibbitts ʼ80

“Off the Hook” shares real-life stories of people who were unknowingly captive to past hurts, and who then walked through deep forgiveness. This way offers healing and freedom through forgiveness. It’s about the power of letting go of old pain. Dana Trapnell Tibbitts began her career as a writer and media relations professional at UCLA in 1980 and continued to work in higher education, media and the arts for much of the next three decades. She has authored several books, including “Harnessing the Sky: Frederick ‘Trap’ Trapnell, the U.S. Navy’s Aviation Pioneer,” published by the Naval Institute Press.

Your Personal Renaissance: Twelve Steps to Finding Your Life's True Calling (2008)

Diane Dreher, M.A. ’70, Ph.D. ’73

Combining the lost wisdom of the Renaissance with groundbreaking research in positive psychology, "Your Personal Renaissance” approaches the concept of a personal calling — not just a job, but a joyous, meaningful life. The book features an innovative program of contemplative steps and practices drawn from Eastern and Western philosophy. With a Ph.D. in English literature from UCLA, as well as an M.A. in counseling, spiritual counseling and holistic health credentials and International Coach Federation certification, Diane Dreher is a best-selling author, professor, positive psychology coach, keynote speaker and associate director of the Applied Spirituality Institute at Santa Clara University.

Unbreakable Mindset: The Four Habits That Will Help You Thrive in Your Career and Life (2020)

Edward Gorbis, M.S. ’13

Edward Gorbis is a high-performance coach, blogger, keynote speaker and podcast host. In this work, he teaches immigrants and first-generation professionals how to rapidly accelerate their careers by developing an invincible mindset and focusing on a few activities that yield tremendous results. Gorbis is the CEO of Career Meets World, an online coaching platform and a startup advisor, helping startups develop their growth strategies. He was formerly a civil engineer who became a senior sales director at WeWork.

Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference (2024)

Guy Kawasaki, MBA ’79

In “Think Remarkable,” tech titan Guy Kawasaki teams up with Madisun Nuismer, producer of the Remarkable People podcast, to deliver insights from a collection of interviews to help readers show the world their best self. The authors draw on insights from working closely with some of the world's most remarkable people. Guy Kawasaki is the chief evangelist of Canva, an online graphic design tool. Formerly, he was an advisor to the Motorola business unit of Google and chief evangelist of Apple. He is also the author of "APE," "What the Plus!," "Enchantment" and nine other books. Kawasaki also has a B.A. from Stanford University, as well as an honorary doctorate from Babson College.

Healing Your Hungry Heart: Recovering from Your Eating Disorder (2022)

Joanna Poppink ʼ77, M.A. ʼ77, Cert. ʼ15

One in five women suffer from eating disorders. For women in their thirties and beyond, issues of loss from divorce, death, empty nest syndrome marriage and career pressures can trigger an eating disorder. “Healing Your Hungry Heart” offers a comprehensive recovery program for women with eating disorders, based on the author’s 30-year professional practice treating adults with anorexia, bulimia and binge eating. She shares her personal struggles, along with stories from a wide range of clients she has counseled and a step-by-step program. Poppink is a California, Arizona, Florida, Oregon and Utah psychotherapist, whose specialties are post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and eating disorder recovery with adults.

Get Out of Your Own Way by Jovita Jenkins

Get Out of Your Own Way (2004)

Jovita Jenkins, MBA ʼ94

In her debut offering, success strategist and executive coach Jovita Jenkins challenges readers to get out of their own way and deal with whatever is holding them back. With the honesty of an old friend and the insight of a professional coach, she leads readers on an intense journey of self-discovery that sets them on the path towards creating a compelling new chapter of their lives. In her book, she brings her prescription for success to her readers and empowers them to be more focused, confident and successful. She is certified as a professional coach through the International Coach Federation and is an area director for Toastmasters International.

Generation Anxiety: A Millennial and Gen Z Guide to Staying Afloat in an Uncertain World (2023)

Lauren Cook ’13

From licensed clinical psychologist and TikTok therapist Lauren Cook, “Generation Anxiety” is a practical guide aimed at millennials and Gen Z for tackling anxiety. This relatable, honest and information-packed book incorporates research and diverse client experiences to help readers gain insight into their own stressors. It also provides easy, actionable steps to help readers ride the waves of anxiety rather than constantly swimming against them. Cook began her training at UCLA, where she majored in psychology and communication studies. She completed her doctorate in clinical psychology at Pepperdine University. She created the Name Your Story mental health group training curriculum that has been utilized by thousands of collegians around the country. She has been featured in many digital and print publications and has given more than 500 talks at various companies, universities and organizations.

Mastering Life's Energies: Simple Steps to a Luminous Life at Work and Play (2007)

Maria Nemeth ʼ67, Ph.D. ʼ74

“Mastering Life’s Energies” shows us how to use all the energies of our lives — physical vitality, creativity, time, money, enjoyment and relationships — to realize our goals and dreams and live a life filled with possibility and promise. Maria Nemeth offers purpose-driven people simple yet powerful tools for training our brains for success. Designed and refined over decades of work with people all over the world, her work turns timeless wisdom into practical skills that have helped tens of thousands to live and serve with clarity, focus, ease and grace. Nemeth is founder and director of the Academy for Coaching Excellence, which has trained thousands of people worldwide.

Sparks of Spirit: How to Find Love and Meaning in Your Life 24 Hours a Day (2004)

Rolf Gompertz ʼ51

“Sparks of Spirit” contains 27 brief meditations and a list of supportive biblical verses. The simple, practical system is non-denominational and can be incorporated into the reader’s belief system. Gompertz fled Nazi Germany to America when he was 11 years old, and settled in Los Angeles. He is the author of eight books and numerous articles and short stories on Jewish and spiritual themes. He was honored with the English Department's Best Student of the Year Award and named to the honor society, Phi Beta Kappa.

The Success Messages: Inspiration to Recharge Your Passion, Potential & Purpose (2014)

Romeo Marquez Jr. ʼ04

“The Success Messages” is a collection of inspiring wisdom to reset your mind and spirit for success. The intention of this book is to enlarge your vision and remind you of the miracles you are set to create in this world. Read with an open heart and you'll experience the inner joy and happiness you are destined to live. Romeo Marquez Jr. is an international keynote speaker, author and creator and host of Superstar Success University. He earned his B.A from UCLA's School of Theatre, Film & Television and trained with an elite group of global success leaders.

Your Life as Story: Discovering the New Autobiography and Writing Memoir as Literature (1997)

Tristine Rainer ʼ68

In “Your Life as Story,” autobiography expert Tristine Rainer explains how we can shape the important messages in our lives into compelling narratives. Blending literary scholarship with practical coaching, Rainer shares her remarkable techniques for finding the essentials of story structure within your life's scattered experiences. At UCLA, she co-founded the University’s Women’s Studies program and taught the first course offered on women writers. As founder and director of the Center for Autobiographic Studies, she promotes the creation and preservation of autobiographic works, teaches, lectures and consults. She has written a memoir about her relationship with Anaïs Nin.

The Big Happy Life: A Journey to Happiness Starring Posie the Penguin (2016)

David Pettit ʼ72, J.D. ʼ75

This rhyming children's story carries with it a message about finding happiness that is as relevant for the children reading it as it is for the adults who may read it to a child. Posie the Penguin begins to feel that she is not content with her life in Antarctica and decides that there must be more out there than her life of black and white. She travels to a warmer climate where she learns an important lesson about happiness.

Engineering Happiness: A New Approach for Building a Joyful Life (2012)

Rakesh Sarin, M.S. ʼ73, Ph.D. ’75

Rakesh Sarin has been conducting ground-breaking research on happiness for more than a decade. Together with co-author Manel Baucells, he integrates their research with the latest thinking in the behavioral and social sciences to offer a new approach to the puzzle of happiness. Woven throughout with wisdom from the world’s religions and literatures, “Engineering Happiness” has something to offer everyone who wants to better understand, attain and sustain a more joyful life. Sarin has been a member of the UCLA Anderson faculty since 1979. He was awarded the Paine Chair in Management in 1990.

The Psychology of Self-Esteem: A Revolutionary Approach to Self-Understanding That Launched a New Era in Modern Psychology (2001)

Nathaniel Branden ʼ51

Dr. Nathaniel Branden introduces readers to six action-based practices for daily living that provide the foundation for self-esteem and explores its central importance in five areas: the workplace, parenting, education, psychotherapy and culture. Six Pillars of Self-Esteem provides concrete guidelines for teachers, parents, managers and therapists who are responsible for developing the self-esteem of others. Branden is a lecturer, practicing psychotherapist and the author of 20 books on the psychology of self-esteem, romantic love and the life of Objectivist philosopher Ayn Rand. His work has been translated into 18 languages and sold more than four million copies.

Finding Real Yoga (2025)

Daren Black, M.A. ʼ81

In “Finding Real Yoga,” Daren Black shares his experience as a student of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. Through his autobiographical memoir, he shares how he experienced a transformation from illness and homelessness to healing and self-empowerment through spiritual self-help. He has included tools, inspiration and wisdom from his spiritual self-help journey. Black has been practicing yoga and meditation since the 1970s. He developed Practical Ayurveda as a more user-friendly approach to Ayurvedic yoga.

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Send your Books by Bruins recommendations. You can also search for authors or share news on the UCLA Alumni Class Notes page.

Books by Bruins Library

Previous articles in the Books by Bruins series

Bruin-Owned Businesses: Tech

ur next feature in the Bruin-owned Business series highlights tech entrepreneurs and their companies. Explore the world of AI, online legal and food ordering services, education and business solutions for your personal and professional needs.

Grad Pad

Founder: Rondale Davis, MBA ’23

Grad Pad
Social Networking Platform

Website: gradpad.online

Email: rondaledavis@gradpad.io

Social: @grad.pad

About:

Enhance your institution’s alumni or professional network with ongoing digital and in-person events that keep your community connected all year round. We break down barriers by engaging alumni through tailored interactions that reflect your network’s unique interests, values and experiences — unlocking fresh opportunities and fostering genuine connections.

Review:

“Grad Pad has been instrumental in helping us build bridges and break down silos within our program. These connections are key to our success as a top-tier MBA program, and the platform has provided a great way for students, alumni and faculty to stay engaged with one another. It really brings people together and strengthens the community, which is invaluable for a program like ours.” - Dylan S.

DriverFly

Founder: Julia Pasternack ’09

DriverFly
Software for Recruiting/Hiring Drivers

Website: driverfly.co

Email: info@driverfly.co

Social: @driver_hiring

Phone: 714-340-5502

About:

At DriverFly, we build software to enhance the bond you have with your drivers. We believe that the key to successful CDL recruiting lies in understanding and fostering personal, meaningful relationships between drivers and employers. Through automation technology, our software is built to maximize those relationships through increased engagement and reach.

Review:

“I highly recommend this company to anyone hiring drivers. Their customer support team is very helpful in answering my questions and resolving any issues. I recently started using DriverFly's ATS and am pleasantly surprised. System is easy to navigate for tracking hires.” - Anonymous

Decipher Something

Co-Founder: Chalisa Prarasri ’14

Decipher Something
Deconstructing Concepts With AI

Website: deciphersomething.com

Email: hi@deciphersomething.c om

Social: @decipher.something

About:

Democratizing science, one term at a time. Written by GenAI, verified by experts. Prof Bot is writing a database with millions of terms, acronyms and techniques.

Review:

“Reduced the amount of tangential research I had to do to decipher techniques and terminology." - Student

Idea Maker

Founder: Thomas Kwon ’92, M.S. ’95, Ph.D. ’98

Idea Maker
Technology Solutions for Small Businesses

Website: ideamaker.agency

Email: tom@ideamaker.agency

Social: @ideamakeragency

Phone: 949- 444-2526

About:

Thomas Kwon founded Idea Maker in 2016 to provide boutique development solutions to small businesses and start-ups in Orange County and the greater Californian areas. Following a career as a software engineer, Kwon has long-standing experience in web and application development, making him an expert developer. He chose the company name Idea Maker because, as you may have guessed, we aim to make your ideas a reality.

Review:

“Idea Maker's portfolio is what drew us in. Their design style was in alignment with what we were after. We had initial consultations with three companies that we had narrowed it down to. Once we had our initial meeting with Tom at Idea Maker we knew we had the right choice to make. Their communication style works well for us.” - Oscar M.

DivorceHelp123

Founder: Debra Mignola’90

DivorceHelp123
Technology for Family Law

Website: divorcehelp123.com

Email: support@divorcehelp123.com

Social: @divorcehelp123

About:

DivorceHelp123 is a family law software designed to streamline the legal process for family lawyers and their clients, helping with form filling, deadline tracking and overall organization.

Review:

“As the managing partner of King Law Offices, PC, I can confidently say that we absolutely love using DivorceHelp123. This innovative program has revolutionized the way we handle family law cases and has made a huge impact on the way we provide legal services to our clients.

DivorceHelp123 is an incredibly powerful tool that helps our team of family lawyers fill out forms, track important deadlines and stay organized throughout the entire legal process. The program is user-friendly and intuitive, which means that our attorneys can focus on providing top-quality legal representation to our clients without worrying about the logistics.” - Brian K.

Mint Mobile

Founder: David Glickman, M.A. ’94

Mint Mobile
Mobile Virtual Network Operator

Website: mintmobile.com

Social: @Mintmobile

Phone: 800-683-7392

About:

Mint Mobile is a wireless service provider that operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) on T-Mobile’s network in the United States. It offers affordable prepaid phone plans by selling service in multi-month packages rather than traditional monthly billing.

Review:

"Their customer service is exceptional. Not only are they friendly, but they are actually able to help you. I wish more companies had customer service like this." - Natasha D.

LegalZoom

Co-Founder: Brian Lee ’93, J.D. ’96

LegalZoom
Legal Technology

Website: legalzoom.com

Email: support@legalzoom.com

Social: @LegalZoom

Phone: 888-379-0854

About:

LegalZoom is an online legal technology and services company founded in 2001, specializing in providing accessible legal solutions to individuals and small businesses. LegalZoom offers a variety of services, including legal document preparation, business formation and access to independent attorneys.

Review:

"I didn't have time to go through an attorney and I figured it would be easier going through LegalZoom... They did all the paperwork for the LLC and everything went great." - James

Blizzard Entertainment

Co-Founders:
Michael Morhaime ’90, Allen Adham ’90, Frank Pearce ’90

Blizzard Entertainment
Video Game Development and Publishing

Website: blizzard.com/en-us

Social: @blizzard

About:

Blizzard Entertainment is a premier developer and publisher of entertainment software, and the company is renowned for creating some of the industry's most critically acclaimed games, including World of Warcraft®, Overwatch®, Hearthstone®, StarCraft®, and Diablo®.

Review:

“From the moment I stepped foot into Diablo 4, I was greeted by a breathtaking world meticulously crafted by the visionary minds at Blizzard Entertainment. The attention to detail is second to none, with hauntingly beautiful environments that simultaneously evoke a sense of dread and wonder. Every corner of this world pulsates with life, and the atmospheric graphics draw you in, making it impossible to escape its grasp.” - D.B.

ChowNow

Co-Founder: Eric Jaffe ’00

ChowNow
Online Food Ordering Platform

Website: chownow.com

Email: support@chownow.com

Social: @chownow

Phone: 888-707-2469

About:

For over a decade, ChowNow has been building tech for food people, so restaurant owners can save money, staff members can save time and diners can order better. Because when restaurants thrive, they can keep serving food that gives your community its unique flavor. We want to keep it that way.

Review:

“We are an experienced user of the ChowNow platform, using it here at our location for 8 years. ChowNow provides us with a simple and effective tool, providing our guests with online ordering. Using this we are able to offer a simple way for our customers to interact with our menu and drive repeat business. The information gathered helps us keep customers returning..” - Kent G.

Hatch Labs

Founder: Eva Agapaki, M.S. ’15

Hatch Labs
AI Product Development and Market Strategists

Website: hatchlabs.ai

Email: eva@hatchlabs.ai

Social: @hatchlabs.ai

Phone: 626-460-8050

About:

Our program was conceived from a fervent passion for cultivating innovative products that are either rooted in rigorous research or address complex engineering challenges. Our mission is to empower deep tech entrepreneurs and innovative larger businesses, enabling them to fully realize their potential and successfully introduce their groundbreaking ideas to the market. Our founder, Dr. Eva Agapaki, brings a unique blend of expertise to the table. With a strong background in AI product development, technical research and product-market fit (PMF) strategy, she is ideally positioned to elevate your early-stage idea to new heights.

Review:

"This is a very professional space with solid leadership for entrepreneurs.” - The Photographer

GoGuardian

Founder: Todd Mackey, MBA ’91

GoGuardian
Digital Learning and Student Safety Solutions

Website: goguardian.com

Email: hello@goguardian.com

Social: @goguardian

Phone: 888-310-0410

About:

GoGuardian is an education technology company that provides digital learning and student safety solutions for K-12 schools. The platform offers a suite of tools designed to help educators manage classrooms, monitor online activity, filter content and ensure student well-being in digital learning environments.

Review:

“I love the fact that I can quietly get students back on track without disturbing the entire class. That I can close windows when they are off their assigned task.” - Margie W.

Robinhood

Co-Founder: Vlad Tenev, M.A. ’10

Robinhood
Financial Trading App

Website: robinhood.com/us/en

Email: support@robinhood.com

Social: @robinhoodapp

About:

Robinhood is a U.S.-based financial services company that offers a mobile app facilitating commission-free trades of stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and cryptocurrencies. Founded in 2013 by Vladimir Tenev and Baiju Bhatt, Robinhood's mission is to democratize finance for all by providing access to financial markets without commissions or minimum account balances.

Review:

“I love trading crypto and stocks on Hood. I’ve had lots of winning, lots of luck on the site. I love the technology. The graphs and quotes are very detailed and helps me make decisions. Some other brokers don't have good charts, slow tech. Great service. I was called several times after I emailed. Doing very well, very happy. I definitely recommend you to try it. It's fun and relaxing. Some other brokers make trading seem like unnecessary neck choking.” - Ocean

Tutorfly

Founder: Parsa Rezvani ’18

Tutorfly
Online Tutoring

Website: tutorfly.com

Email: info@tutorfly.org

Social: @tutorfly

Phone: 424-653-6159

About:

Tutorfly was founded with the vision of creating an accessible tutoring marketplace that could deliver high-quality tutoring services while simultaneously fostering connections between students and individual tutors who could serve as role models. Today, Tutorfly.com extends its reach to thousands of families across the United States, offering affordable and accessible online tutoring services.

Review:

“My experience with Tutorfly has been amazing from the beginning. I think that the partnership between Butler and Tutorfly is invaluable. We have made a huge difference in these kids' lives (and) we're working toward that achievement gap. I know it has made a big difference in helping our teachers by allowing us to have smaller groups." - Mrs. Rouse

ThousandEyes

Co-founder: Mohit Lad, M.S. ’04, Ph.D. ’07

ThousandEyes
Network Intelligence

Website: thousandeyes.com

Email: facebook@thousandeyes.com

Social: @thousandeyes

About:

ThousandEyes provides a holistic view of all connected elements of digital experience across the networks, apps, and infrastructure that organizations own — as well as those they do not own — so they can ultimately get a deep understanding of digital experiences and can take or automate actions to assure them.

Review:

“The data and insight you see when monitoring your network and application availability using Thousand Eyes is truly unbelievable. As its agents are embedded into the network just like a client, the view is from the client's perspective.” - Kevin A.

Liquid Inc.

Founder: Saujin Yi, MBA ’07

Liquid Inc.
Online Digital Identity Verification

Website: liquidinc.asia/global

About:

Liquid offers a seamless digital onboarding process by conducting online digital identity verification, thus preventing user drop-off. Our solution can be tailored to meet compliance with various regulations, including AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and other specific regulatory requirements relevant to your business.

Review:

“Liquid Inc. helped us achieve a secure and safe gaming environment. Our security measures, including user identification during emergencies and prevention of impersonation, contributed to maintaining a secure environment.” - S.U.P.

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Books by Bruins - Stories About Women

ach month, this Books by Bruins series will feature a new collection of books by theme. In this issue, we’re highlighting books written about women, which include industry trailblazers, rom-com socialites and unsung heroines who have shaped the course of history. As this compilation of Bruin authors grows, we’re categorizing the books into an online library, but we’ll need your help to make it as comprehensive as possible. If you know of one, please submit a Bruin author. While all these books are written by UCLA alumni, inclusion in the list is not an endorsement.

Bold & Brave: Ten Heroes Who Won Women the Right to Vote (2020)

Kirsten Gillibrand, J.D. ’91

On the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand shares the stories of 10 suffragists who fought for women's right to vote. “Bold & Brave” introduces children to strong women who have raised their voices on behalf of justice, and inspires them to raise their own voices to build our future. Senator Gillibrand of New York is a passionate advocate for women's rights. The New York Times bestselling author of “Off the Sidelines,” this is her first book for children. She is a graduate of UCLA School of Law.

Lessons Learned: Stories from Women Leaders in STEM (2023)

Deborah Shlian, MBA ’88

Deborah Shlian is a physician, healthcare consultant and the author of fiction and nonfiction books including a best-selling medical mystery series written with her husband. “Stories from Women Leaders in STEM” is part of a series that showcases women who overcame the odds while paving the way for others. Shlian and her husband, Joel Shlian, also a physician, became the first couple to complete the UCLA MBA program together.

We Are Inspiring: The Stories of 32 Inspirational Asian American Women (2019)

Angel Trazo, M.A. ’20

"We Are Inspiring" brings to life the stories of Asian American women from different communities. Trazo wrote the book with the goal of preventing the erasure of Asian Americans as an integral part of American history. Aimed at children ages 10 and over, the book covers 32 inspirational women including scientists, artists, actresses, comedians, judges and Olympians. Trazo is an author, illustrator and grad student based in the Bay Area. She holds a master's degree in Asian American Studies from UCLA. This is her debut children's book.

The Assertive Woman: A New Look (1975)

Nancy Austin ’71, MBA ’77

“The Assertive Woman” debunks stale stereotypes of women bosses, stay-at-home moms and superwomen. Packed with personal vignettes, exercises, step-by-step procedures and tips, it became the first book of its kind in 1975, and has been updated and reprinted several times since then. Nancy Austin is a writer and business consultant. She received her MBA from UCLA where she was part of the team at the Neuropsychiatric Institute studying California’s community mental health system. Her books have sold approximately one million copies and have been published in seven languages.

Trophies: A Novel (2008)

Heather Thomas ʼ80

Marion Zane is the top Trophy — she has it all: a faithful husband, loyal fellow-Trophy girlfriends, queen-bee status over the Hollywood "name-above-the-title" charities, and — best of all — no prenup! She knows inside information is king, smiles hide jealousy, jackals lure husbands away (or worse, steal personal assistants), housekeepers have the power to destroy and that everyone has devastating secrets — including her. Heather Thomas graduated from UCLA where she studied in the School of Theater, Film and Television. She starred as Jody Banks in TV's “The Fall Guy” from 1981 to 1986 and then left acting in 1998 to pursue writing.

Pounders of Grain: A History of Women, Work, and Politics in Mozambique (2016)

Kathleen Sheldon, M.A. ’77, Ph.D. ’88

This history of women in Mozambique includes their contributions to the social and economic lives of their communities from the mid-19th century through the end of the 20th century. In her book, Sheldon emphasizes the centrality of women's choices and decisions. Kathleen Sheldon is an independent historian who is a research affiliate with the UCLA Center for the Study of Women. She received her Ph.D. in history from UCLA in 1988 and her M.A. in African Area studies in 1977. She has written several books on women in Africa.

Before Amelia: Women Pilots in the Early Days of Aviation (2003)

Eileen (Fitzpatrick) Lebow ’47, M.A. ’49

“Before Amelia” is the remarkable story of the world's first female aviators who braved the skies during the early days of flight. Lebow looks at an international spectrum of pilots and their influence on each other. In an era when women's professional options were severely limited and the mere sight of ladies wearing pants caused a sensation, these women succeeded as pilots, flight instructors, airplane designers, stunt performers and promoters. Lebow taught in Maryland schools for 20 years before becoming an author of books on early aviation and education.

The Women Who Made Early Disneyland: Artists, Entertainers, and Guest Relations (2024)

Kelsey Knox, M.L.I.S. ’14 and Cindy Mediavilla, M.L.S. ’77, Ph.D. ’00

This one-of-a-kind book examines the lives and achievements of the women who made early Disneyland. When Cindy Mediavilla attended a Disneyana convention held in 2015, she was surprised to learn about Ruth Shellhorn, a prominent post-war landscape architect who created the outdoor environment that became the original Disneyland park. Knox and Mediavilla – both lifelong Disney fans – found that as they researched Shellhorn and her work, there were countless women who were instrumental in building and operating what generations have known as, “the happiest place on earth.” Knox serves as the university archivist for UC Santa Cruz, while Mediavilla’s accolades include induction into the California Library Hall of Fame in 2022.

Entry Lessons: The Stories of Women Fighting for Their Place, Their Children and Their Futures After Incarceration (2022)

Jorja Leap '78, M.S.W. ’80, Ph.D. ’88

Recent reports show that women make up the fastest-growing population within the United States’ criminal justice system. Now, through immersive storytelling and expert analysis of women’s lives after prison, anthropologist Jorja Leap explores their journeys into, through and beyond the jail cell. Jorja Leap is on the faculty of the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, where she also serves as the executive director of the UCLA Social Justice Research Partnership. Dr. Leap has been the recipient of the UCLA Distinguished Teaching Award. She is the author of the highly acclaimed books “Jumped In” and “Project Fatherhood.”

Uta Barth: To Draw With Light (2012)

Uta Barth, M.F.A. ’85

Blind Spot Series publishes small-format, limited-run artist’s books that present a series of images from single bodies of work by important contemporary artist-photographers. Uta Barth’s stunning “To Draw With Light" features 46 color photographs alongside new works created specifically for the book. The Los Angeles–based contemporary artist has spent her decades-long career exploring the complexities and limits of human and mechanical vision.

She Damn Near Ran the Studio: The Extraordinary Lives of Ida R. Koverman (2020)

Jacqueline R. Braitman ’79, M.A. ’81, Ph.D. ’88

Best known as the woman who ran MGM, Ida R. Koverman served as talent scout, mentor, executive secretary and confidant to American movie mogul Louis B. Mayer for 25 years. “She Damn Near Ran the Studio” is the first full account of Koverman's life and the true story of how she became a creative political powerhouse during Hollywood's Golden Era. Jacqueline R. Braitman is a historian of American history who specializes in California women and politics. She is coauthor of “Justice Stanley Mosk: A Life at the Center of California Politics and Justice.”

Five Women of Byzantium (2020)

Robert Englekirk, M.S. ’65, Ph.D. ’70

The history of the pre-11th century Byzantine Empire presents the courageous, determined effort of the Byzantines to succeed. Women played a significant part in the evolution of mankind for they often saved mankind from disaster. Robert Englekirk has had a profound impact on civil infrastructure in California. His designs include the Getty Center, the Hollywood and Highland center and the tallest precast concrete building in California. He is an adjunct professor in civil engineering and has taught structural engineering at USC and UC San Diego. In 2015, he and his wife Natalie established the Englekirk Presidential Endowed Chair in Structural Engineering at UCLA.

There's Cake in My Future (2012)

Kim Gruenenfelder ʼ89

After listening to her closest friends' latest travails in love, parenting and careers, superstitious bride-to-be Nicole believes she has the perfect recipe for everyone's happiness: a bridal shower "cake pull" in which each ribboned silver charm planted in her cake will bring its recipient the magical assistance she needs to change her destiny. Kim Gruenenfelder graduated from UCLA with a bachelor’s degree in women's history. In addition to her novels “A Total Waste of Makeup” and “Misery Loves Cabernet,” she has written feature films, episodic teleplays and two stage plays.

The Ziegfelds' Girl: Confessions of an Abnormally Happy Childhood (1964)

Patricia Burke Ziegfeld Stephenson

Patricia Burke Ziegfeld Stephenson’s father, Florenz Ziegfeld, was the king of Broadway, producing an annual Follies featuring the cream of Broadway talent. Her mother, Billie Burke, is most remembered for her portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch of the North in the 1939 movie classic "The Wizard of Oz." "The Ziegfelds' Girl: Confessions of an Abnormally Happy Childhood," is the colorful backstage story of her adventures with her parents.

Brava: A Latina Lawyer’s Path to Empowerment (2023)

Adriana Palomares ʼ04

“Brava” is the inspirational story of a young Latina's coming-of-age journey as she searches for success and true happiness after she migrates to the United States from México. The book was the recipient of the 2024 International Latino Book Awards in two categories including the Isabel Allende Most Inspirational Fiction Book Award. Since publishing “Brava, A Latina Lawyer’s Path to Empowerment,” Adriana Palomares has presented at the Brilliance UCLA Alumnae Conference and other events including Latina Fest and the Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) conference.

Heart Matters: A Memoir of a Female Heart Surgeon (2010)

Kathy E. Magliato, MBA ʼ06

Dr. Kathy Magliato is one of the few female heart surgeons practicing in the world today. She is also a member of an even more exclusive group — those surgeons specially trained to perform heart transplants. In this powerful and moving memoir, which inspired the NBC series “Heart Beat,” Dr. Magliato takes us into her highly demanding, physically intense, male-dominated world and shows us how she masterfully works to save patients' lives every day. She is currently on staff at Providence Saint John’s Medical Center in Santa Monica, California, where she developed a Multidisciplinary Women’s Health Center to address the cardiac needs of female patients. In 2006, she earned an Executive MBA at UCLA Anderson School of Business and received their Inspirational Alumni Award as part of the 75th anniversary of the school.

Gertrude Stein and the Essence of What Happens (2005)

Dana Cairns Watson ’89, M.A. ’93, Ph.D. ’96

In “Gertrude Stein and the Essence of What Happens,” Dana Cairns Watson traces Stein's fascination with the cognitive and political ramifications of conversation. Watson shows how Stein’s use of silent reading and social speaking reveals the way reading and conversation build communities of meaning, to form personal relationships and the larger political structures we inhabit. Dana Cairns Watson has taught American literature and English composition at Middlebury College, Santa Monica College and UCLA.

Edith Heath: Philosophies (2021)

Jennifer M. Volland, M.A. '06, Cert. '03

“Edith Heath: Philosophies” is the definitive resource on Edith Kiertzner Heath and the history of Heath Ceramics, emphasizing the philosophical foundations and influences of the creative force. This publication offers an in-depth commentary on the presented themes of the environment, feminism, architecture and politics, while solidifying the relevance of Edith Heath's story in contemporary life and society. Jennifer M. Volland is an independent writer, curator, researcher and archivist. Her past work explores two architectural typologies: the cabin and the hotel as both author and curator.

Runaway Girl: Escaping Life on the Streets (2013)

Carissa Phelps, MBA ’07, J.D. ’07

Phelps was a runaway by age 12, escaping a troubled and dangerous home life. She turned tragedy into triumph as she rose from runaway to holder of an MBA. and a law degree from UCLA. "When I was at UCLA Anderson, I planned to go into private equity," Phelps said. "I wanted to start a fund through local investing that would focus on costly social questions. But I stepped away, went back to Fresno, wrote the book and formed Runaway Girl in early 2012." Runaway Girl, a California for-profit entity with a "special" or social purpose, creates employment opportunities for former runaways and survivors of human trafficking.

Noushin, a Memoir: The Making of a Woman Architect (2022)

Noushin Ehsan, M.Arch. ’72

Noushin Ehsan, a licensed architect with over 35 years of international experience, founded Accessible Architecture, PC, where she developed the concept of “The Spirit of Space” which incorporates the spiritual as well as the practical approach to architecture. Ehsan promotes designs that create a positive energy in your space. She believes that through harmony, proportion, light, cohesiveness of thought in design and use of material, one can design holistic spaces that uplift the spirit and energize the physical being. This approach to holistic design has no relevance to the size and budget of your projects and can be adapted in any style. Ehsan received her master’s degree in architecture & urban design from UCLA.

War, Women, and Power: From Violence to Mobilization in Rwanda and Bosnia-Herzegovina (2018)

Marie Berry, M.A. ’10, Ph.D. ’15

Rwanda and Bosnia both experienced mass violence in the early 1990s. Through close examination, Marie E. Berry unpacks the puzzling relationship between war and women's political mobilization. Dr. Berry is assistant professor of international comparative politics at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver. She was awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on outstanding scientists and engineers early in their careers.

A Daughter's Journey: A Memoir (2024)

Susan M. (aka Susie Myung-Sook) Chung ’77, M.S.W. ’79

Susan M. Chung, who has been described as "the 'Godzilla' of divorce attorneys in Silicon Valley," published her second autobiographical book, "A Daughter's Journey: A Memoir." The book "tells her accounts of courtroom dramas with golden threads of perspective and wisdom earned through decades of fighting, not only for justice, but her own personal struggles." Her first book, 2011's "A Mother's Journey — A Tale of Early Korean Settlers in Silver Lake," was a tribute to her mother, describing her family's arrival in Los Angeles and their significant role in the founding of Koreatown. Chung earned her bachelor's degree in sociology and her master's degree in social welfare from UCLA.

Humanizing the Sacred: Sisters in Islam and the Struggle for Gender Justice in Malaysia (2015)

Azza Basarudin, Ph.D. ’09

Based on ethnographic research of Sisters in Islam (SIS), a nongovernmental organization of professional women promoting justice and equality, Basarudin examines SIS members' involvement in the production and transmission of Islamic knowledge to reformulate legal codes and reconceptualize gender discourses. By weaving together women's lived realities, feminist interpretations of Islamic texts and Malaysian cultural politics, this book illuminates how a localized struggle of claiming rights takes shape within a transnational landscape. Azzarina Basarudin is assistant professor in the Department of Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies at CSULB. With a Ph.D. from UCLA in gender and sexuality studies, her research interests are transnational feminisms, gender and Islam, and intimacy and human rights politics.

Martha: The Life and Work of Martha Graham (1992)

Agnes De Mille ’26

Agnes De Mille was a close friend of choreographer Martha Graham for more than 60 years. Her book traces Graham's inspirations and pivotal moments. Graham developed a dance technique that has been called the "cornerstone" of American modern dance, based on the opposition between contraction and release, a concept based on the breathing cycle. Graham was famous for works including “Appalachian Spring,” “Ekstasis” and “Lamentations.” American choreographer, Agnes de Mille graduated from UCLA Cum Laude at age 19, having developed a love for great literature. As a choreographer, she was known for her storytelling, which is expressed in her works like “Rodeo,” “Oklahoma” and “Carousel.”

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Books by Bruins - L.A. Stories

or the next several months, our Books by Bruins series will feature a new collection of books by theme, starting with books about Los Angeles — its history, environment and the people who call it home. As this compilation of Bruin authors grows, we’re categorizing the books into an online library, but we’ll need your help to make it as comprehensive as possible. If you know of one, please submit a Bruin author. While all these books are written by UCLA alumni, inclusion in the list is not an endorsement.

Imagining Los Angeles: A City in Fiction (2004)

David Fine '83

The literary image of Los Angeles has evolved since the 1880s from a New Eden to contemporary visions of the city as a perplexing, sometimes corrupt, even apocalyptic place. In “Imagining Los Angeles,” the first literary history of the city in more than 50 years, critic David Fine traces the history and mood of Los Angeles through the work of writers including Helen Hunt Jackson, Mary Austin, Norman Mailer, Raymond Chandler, Joan Didion and Carolyn See. Fine was a professor at California State University, Long Beach for over 35 years. A graduate of UCLA, he was a Fulbright Scholar, a member of the UCLA marching band and served in the United States National Guard Reserves as a member of a military band.

Native Shrubs of Southern California (2023)

Peter H. Raven, Ph.D. ’60

Southern California’s valleys, mountains and deserts are an exceptionally rich environment for native shrubs. “Native Shrubs of Southern California” contains approximately 400 kinds of shrubs, with both color and black and white illustrations. Peter H. Raven is a botanist and environmentalist, and is the former president and director of the Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical institutions in the United States.

Sons, Daughters, and Sidewalk Psychotics: Mental Illness and Homelessness in Los Angeles (2024)

Neil Gong, M.A. '13, Ph.D. '19

Neil Gong is assistant professor of sociology at UC San Diego, where he researches psychiatric services, homelessness and liberal social order. His book “Sons, Daughters, and Sidewalk Psychotics” is about inequality in mental health care in Los Angeles. His public commentary can be found in the Washington Post, the Atlantic and the Los Angeles Review of Books.

Conservation of California Walnut in the Eastern Santa Monica Mountains (2022)

Travis Longcore, M.A. '95, Ph.D. '99

The walnut was first cultivated in California by Franciscan Monks in the late 1700s; many of today’s trees are descended from these early plantings. “Conservation of California Walnut in the Eastern Santa Monica Mountains” addresses a region that is subject to ongoing development pressure threatening the remaining walnut groves and oak–walnut woodlands. Travis Longcore is an adjunct professor in the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability and co-chair of the Environmental Science and Engineering Program. He conducts research on environmental health focusing on the conservation of biodiversity in cities.

Fruteros: Street Vending, Illegality, and Ethnic Community in Los Angeles (2020)

Rocío Rosales, M.A. '08, Ph.D. '12

Young Latino street vendors, known as fruteros, sell fruit salads out of pushcarts throughout Los Angeles. Drawing on six years of fieldwork, this book examines how they navigate the complexities of local and federal laws prohibiting both their presence and their work on street corners. “Fruteros: Street Vending, Illegality, and Ethnic Community in Los Angeles” sheds light on those complexities and offers the concept of the "ethnic cage" to explain both the promise and pain of community. Rocío Rosales is associate dean, Faculty Development and Diversity & Inclusive Excellence Professor at UC Irvine focused on international migration, immigrant and ethnic economies and immigrant detention.

Los Angeles Residential Architecture: Modernism Meets Eclecticism (2015)

Ruth Wallach '86, M.L.S. '88

During the first half of the twentieth century, Los Angeles grew into a sprawling metropolis. As suburbs developed, demonstration homes like the California Home and Garden Exhibition showcased the latest in timesaving appliances and inspired a new generation of homebuyers. In her book “Los Angeles Residential Architecture: Modernism Meets Eclecticism” author Ruth Wallach tours the varied Modernist styles that give Los Angeles its distinct residential landscape. Wallach has a B.A. in economics and an M.L.S. in library science from UCLA. She is the associate dean of Social Sciences and Humanities Libraries at USC.

Goal Dust: The Warm and Candid Memoirs of a Pioneer Black Athlete and Actor (1993)

Woody Strode (1937-39)

Woody Strode's extraordinary career led him from the football field to Hollywood. In 1939, Strode, along with teammates Jackie Robinson and Kenny Washington, led UCLA to its first undefeated football season. Strode and Washington had been two of the best-known college football players in the nation. After World War II, they became the first Black players drafted into the NFL. In 1950, Strode became pro wrestling's first Black star. After that it was a small step to Hollywood where he appeared in films such as The “Ten Commandments,” “Spartacus” and “The Cotton Club.” He was also known for his roles in numerous TV westerns. Woody from “Toy Story” was named in his honor.

Packer and Jack (2013)

Rachel Hoffman, Ph.D. '97

"Packer and Jack," is an L.A. love story set in the six square blocks of downtown they call home. Rachel Hoffman, who is also the author of the novel "Saltine," earned her Ph.D. in art history from UCLA and later moved to Italy to make wine, milk cows and write. Her work has appeared in more than a dozen literary journals. A 2017 Fulbright granted Rachel a month's residency at the International Writers' and Translators' House in Latvia to complete a memoir of her years living in Africa.

Little Tokyo: One Hundred Years in Pictures (1983)

Ichiro Mike Murase '70

This book tells the story of Little Tokyo through photographs, from its early beginnings in 1885, through World War II and into the 1980s. Ichiro Mike Murase moved with his Kibei-Nisei family to Los Angeles when he was nine years old. Murase was one of the founders of the UCLA Asian American Studies Center, as well as serving as president of Nisei Bruin Club while he was an undergraduate at UCLA in the late 1960s. As an activist, attorney, administrator, community organizer and teacher, Murase has served the Asian American community in many capacities over the past four decades.

Chican@ Artivistas: Music, Community, and Transborder Tactics in East Los Angeles (2020)

Martha Gonzalez ’99

By showcasing the social impact made by key artist-activists in the art world and music industry, Gonzalez charts the evolution of a now-canonical body of work that took its inspiration from the Zapatista movement, particularly its masked indigenous participants, and that responded to efforts to impose systems of labor exploitation and social subjugation. Martha Gonzalez is a Chicana artivista (artist/activist) musician, feminist music theorist and associate professor in the Intercollegiate Department of Chicana/o Latina/o Studies at Scripps College. A Fulbright, Ford and Woodrow Wilson Fellow, her academic interests have been fueled by her own musicianship as a singer/songwriter and percussionist for the GRAMMY Award-winning band Quetzal.

Ethnopolitical Entrepreneurs: Outsiders Inside Armenian Los Angeles (2023)

Daniel Fittante ’05, Ph.D. ’18

In “Ethnopolitical Entrepreneurs: Outsiders Inside Armenian Los Angeles”, Daniel Fittante expands our understanding of U.S. political history. The author shows how Glendale's Armenian community is changing the country's political reality within its dynamic, multiethnic suburbs. Fittante is a postdoctoral fellow in the department of sociology at Södertörn University. His research areas include political and urban sociology, diaspora studies and immigration.

Compton in My Soul: A Life in Pursuit of Racial Equality (2024)

Albert Camarillo ’70, Ph.D. ’75

When Al Camarillo grew up in Compton, California, racial segregation was the rule. His relatives were among the first Mexican immigrants to settle there — in the only neighborhood where Mexicans were allowed to live. The author of seven books and numerous articles and papers, “Compton in My Soul” weaves his personal story with the history of his L.A. neighborhood, and illuminates a changing U.S. society — the progress and backslides over half a century for racial equality and educational opportunity. Entering UCLA in the mid 1960s, Camarillo was one of only 50 Mexican American students, and became one of the first Mexican Americans in the country to earn a Ph.D. in history. He is widely regarded as one of the founding scholars of the field of Mexican American history and Chicano Studies. Ha also played basketball under Coach John Wooden with teammate Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ’69.

Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders (2001)

Vincent Bugliosi, J.D. '64

Only a few years out of law school, Vincent Bugliosi gained fame as the Los Angeles County deputy district attorney who prosecuted the Charles Manson murders in 1969. After leaving the DA’s office, he co-wrote “Helter Skelter,” a book about the Manson trial. He went on to write numerous bestsellers including, “Reclaiming History: The Assassination of President John F. Kennedy” in which he challenged numerous conspiracy theories and “Outrage: The Five Reasons Why O. J. Simpson Got Away with Murder” about the acquittal of O. J. Simpson. At UCLA Law, he was president of his graduating class.

From Watts to the World: A Chronicle of Service (2021)

Rosalyn Cain King, M.P.H. '72

Dr. Rosalyn C. King’s life story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, passion and service. This book chronicles her five-decade career in pharmacy and public health; a global journey that took her to countries like Romania and Nigeria, where she played a vital role in healthcare services and pivotal projects funded by the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). She is a distinguished pharmacist, author, professor, consultant and global health advisor.

Giant Robot: Thirty Years of Defining Asian American Pop Culture (2024)

Eric Nakamura '83

Eric Nakamura founded Giant Robot as a photocopied and stapled zine in Los Angeles in 1994. Giant Robot magazine reached a wide audience interested in Asian popular culture. Nakamura built on the success of Giant Robot with stores and galleries in Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco, and has curated over 300 exhibitions. “Giant Robot: Thirty Years of Defining Asian-American Pop Culture” features the best of the magazine’s sixty-eight issue run alongside never-before-seen photographs, writing by contributing journalist Claudine Ko and tributes from now-famous fans. Nakamura works in and owns the Giant Robot store and GR2 Gallery which offer pop culture goods and art exhibitions.

Zev's Los Angeles: From Boyle Heights to the Halls of Power (2023)

Zev Yaroslavsky ’71, M.A. ’72

“Zev's Los Angeles: From Boyle Heights to the Halls of Power” tells the story of Zev Yaroslavsky, from young social activist to a powerful elected official who sparked reforms in policing, transit, land use and fiscal policies. His Los Angeles political career spanned four decades as a member of the City Council (1975-1994) and County Board of Supervisors (1994-2014). Yaroslavsky is the former director of the Los Angeles Initiative at UCLA.

Black Los Angeles: American Dreams and Racial Realities (2010)

Darnell Hunt, M.A. '91, Ph.D. '94

During the first half of the twentieth century, Los Angeles was also seen as a mecca for both African Americans and a steady stream of migrants from around the country and the world, transforming Los Angeles into one of the world's most diverse cities. Darnell Hunt serves as UCLA’s executive vice chancellor and provost, responsible for administering campus operations and the academic enterprise. A celebrated scholar of race and media, he is well known for his longstanding commitment to high-quality public education, support of interdisciplinary research for the common good and vision for inclusive excellence. From July through December 2024, he served as UCLA’s interim chancellor, prior to the beginning of Chancellor Julio Frenk’s tenure.

East Los Angeles: History of a Barrio (1983)

Ricardo Romo, Ph.D. '75

“East Los Angeles: History of a Barrio” is the story of the largest Mexican-American community in the United States, the city within a city known as "East Los Angeles." The author examines how Mexican immigrants adjusted to life in one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, how they fared in this country's labor market and the problems of segregation and prejudice they confronted. Ricardo Romo is an American urban historian who served as the fifth president of the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) from May 1999 to March 2017.

90210 Photobook (2016)

Priscilla Mars '14

“90210 Photobook” is a self-published photographic exploration of the city of Beverly Hills over several years. Priscilla Mars is a Mexican American artist originally from Fresno, California, who is obsessed with movies and the cinematic landscapes of L.A. Mars works in photography and cinematography in Los Angeles. She is a graduate of UCLA School of Arts and the AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop for Women.

City of Inmates: Conquest, Rebellion, and the Rise of Human Caging in Los Angeles (2017)

Kelly Lytle Hernández, M.A. '00, Ph.D. '02

“City of Inmates” explores how the City of Angels became the capital city of the world's leading incarcerator. Marshaling more than two centuries of evidence, historian Kelly Lytle Hernandez unmasks how histories of native elimination, immigrant exclusion and black disappearance drove the rise of incarceration. Professor Lytle Hernández is a professor of history, African American studies and urban planning at UCLA where she holds The Thomas E. Lifka Endowed Chair in History. In 2019, she was named a MacArthur Fellow for her historical and contemporary work. Her newest book, “Bad Mexicans,” tells the dramatic story of the magonistas, the migrant rebels who sparked the 1910 Mexican Revolution from the United States.

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Bruin-Owned Businesses: Gift Ideas 4

tuck on what to give a certain someone for the holidays? These Bruin-owned businesses may have just the right present for that hard-to-shop-for friend. From beauty products to fitness classes to lifestyle apparel, peruse these last minute gift ideas and support a Bruin business.

P.M. Jacoy Menswear

Owner: Tony Jacoy ʼ74

Location: 2650 Mission St. #104, San Marino, CA 91108

Phone: 626-799-4600

Website: https://www.pmjacoy.com

Email: sales@pmjacoy.com

Social: @pmjacoymenswear

About:

P.M. Jacoy Menswear opened in 1985 in San Marino's trendy Mission Street shopping district. Decades later, P.M. Jacoy is considered to be a benchmark in men's clothes in the San Gabriel Valley. They offer a wide variety of quality men's clothing and accessories in-store while also specializing in custom suits, sports coats, pants and shirts. A full-service tailor shop is conveniently located onsite to offer the perfect fit for all P.M. Jacoy purchases as well as clothing purchased elsewhere.

Review:

“The quality of menswear at P.M. Jacoy is superior to any tailor or suit store. I was immediately impressed as a first-time customer. Tony is professional, knowledgeable and courteous. He fit me into the proper sports coat and pants for my wedding. More importantly, he listened to me as a customer and told me what look I wanted as a groom. My beautiful bride was impressed and pleased by Tony's recommendation. There is also great activewear at the shop. I especially recommend the Toes on the Nose activewear attire.” — Daryl T.

The Soap Kitchen

Owner: Dali Yu ʼ93

Services: E-Commerce

Phone: 626-396-9996

Website: https://www.thesoapkitchen.com

Social: @thesoapkitchen

About:

We're mother/daughter soap chefs raising the bar by thinking outside the bottle. Plastic-free since 2003, we've been serving fresh, all-natural olive oil soap, handmade from scratch in Old Pasadena and featured on Huell Howser's California's Gold. Our soaps are amazing! Rest assured that we use only the finest essential oils and herbs to add a mild scent to our soaps, so the end product is hydrating for the skin, healthy for the body and never overwhelming to the nose. Here's your chance to experience pure indulgence with zero guilt.

Review:

“I am not a bar soap person so I will leave those reviews to those that are. I am, however, a user of shower and skin products and I really like those I have bought from The Soap Kitchen. I have used the Shower Steamers. Both the Lavender for relaxing and Breathe for helping with, yes, breathing (maybe you have a head cold) to other items like Rose Hip Seed Oil for your skin and So Fresh, So Clean which removes makeup and helps your skin feel great. Even the candles are nice. I highly recommend them. Give them a try. I'm sure you will like them.” — Cherri O.

5 Point Yoga

Owner: Ted McDonald ʼ96

Location: 23410 Civic Center Way, Suite E-3, Malibu, CA 90265

Phone: 424-259-2628

Website: https://5pointyoga.com

Email: questions@5pointyoga.com

Social: @5pointyoga

About:

5 Point Yoga is Malibu's premier yoga and fitness studio offering yoga, mat pilates, dance, fitness and aerial classes! Located at the Malibu Country Mart. Our 5-Point Plan: physical fitness, nutrition, mental wellness, community, environment.

Review: “I love this yoga studio. And when I am at other yoga studios in Northern California I often wish I was back at 5 Points. This is such a wonderful addition to the Malibu Country Mart because it's a place not focused on consumerism and it breeds community! The 5 points it's named after are mental wellness, physical fitness, nutrition, community and environment. Environment?! How exciting for this tree-hugging chick.” — Jen R.

Kawaii Craft Shop

Owner: Maryn Masumiya ʼ06

Services: E-Commerce

Website: https://kawaiicraftshop.com

Email: kawaiicraftlady@gmail.com

Social: @kawaiicraftlady

About:

Created by Maryn, the Kawaii Craft Shop’s mission is to spread joy through handmade kawaii ("cute") creations. It’s the perfect spot to embrace your sparkly, unicorn-loving side and discover special gifts for yourself or loved ones. It's the little things that brighten our days, and these creations aim to bring that extra bit of happiness into yours. Thank you for supporting small and handmade businesses - your support is what keeps the creativity flowing!

Review:

“In love with Tiffany's mystery bundles! I ordered in the past and I loved my experience. This time I asked for items that would fit a woman in her mid-20s, and she didn't disappoint. I can't wait to use them and make my adult life cuter.” — Gabriella

Wehitpan Beauty

Owner: Sandra Rhee ʼ17

Services: E-Commerce

Phone: 661-544-8726

Website: https://wehitpan.com

Email: hello@wehitpan.com

Social: @wehitpan

About:

If you're over the usual beauty stores, you've just discovered a game-changer — Wehitpan isn’t your typical beauty retailer. Wehitpan is here to refresh your makeup bag and break a few beauty rules along the way. The mastermind behind it all is Sandra: a dedicated beauty enthusiast, founder and your new beauty insider. She’s scoured every part of the internet —beyond the mainstream sites — to bring you the best dupes, the hottest emerging brands and top products loved by influencers on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram.

Review:

“Absolutely awesome! I have used the Relief Sun Sunscreen every day for two weeks. In the early spring sun, the UV is very damaging. I can put it under my eyes and on my neck. No redness or itching. When I use drugstore products, I will have red patches and itch everywhere I put sunscreen. It's terrible. The Joseon product is creamy, it does not pile up if you put makeup on top. The best product I have ever used. I am 62. I love to garden. Now I can be outside working in the sun without wrapping up like a mummy. It is so much more comfortable.”
— Karen C.

Pickytarian

Owner: Laide Olambiwonnu, M.S. ʼ12

Services: E-Commerce

Phone: 213-537-3994

Website: https://pickytarian.com

Email: hello@pickytarian.com

Social: @pickytarianinc

About:

Pickytarian creates dinnerware products that are beautifully designed, elegant, sturdy, compostable and disposable. Our tableware products are meant for those special occasions where it’s a huge hassle to use fine dinnerware but you are also conscious enough not to use toxic plastic or flimsy paperware. Pickytarian products are made from renewable resources such as bamboo and sugarcane pulp. In addition, we donate 5% of sales to organizations working to alleviate food and shelter insecurities in our various communities.

Review:

“I am so happy that I chose Pickytarian to supply the plates and cutlery for my daughter’s baby shower. The high-quality of the eco-friendly materials, which included the leaf shaped plates and the durable cutlery provided a positive visual appeal to all my guests. The customer service was over the top by the owner. The price was fair and well worth it! I highly recommend doing business with Pickytarian. You will be highly satisfied like I am.” — Adriene B.

Innovative Imprints

Owner: Travis Scott ʼ91

Location: 0861 Kinsbury Ridge Court, San Diego, CA 92130

Phone: 760-798-4804

Website: https://www.innovative-imprints.com/

Email: service@innovative-imprints.com

Social: @innovativeimprints

About:

Innovative Imprints has been a leading supplier of custom promotional products and apparel since 1997. Through our vast network of manufacturing partners, both domestic and overseas, our product line is immense. Innovative Imprints offers hundreds of thousands of unique and customized gifts, incentives, rewards, giveaways (aka, advertising specialties) and more. We like to say that "we offer everything from pens to polos to portfolios!"

Review:

“I have had the opportunity to work with Mike Scott, Innovative Imprints for many years. His prices always come below other vendors, his professionalism and efficiency are first rate and I can count on him to help me identify creative, practical and trending products that will forever leave an impression on my students, faculty and stakeholders that I work with.” - Sabrina

Daily Work Journal

Owner: Jessica Yen ʼ14

Services: E-Commerce

Phone: 604-923-8152

Website: https://www.dailyworkjournal.com

Email: hello@dailyworkjournal.com

Social: @dailyworkjournal

About:

Meet Daily Work Journal, the company that's here to help you navigate your career in a fulfilling way. Their hero product, also called Daily Work Journal, is a journal notebook that's packed with career coaching worksheets, journal prompts, reflection space and blank note pages. This journal was created by Jessica Yen, a former data analyst turned executive coach who noticed that people were struggling with career fulfillment during the pandemic. She decided to create a tool that could help more people achieve their career goals in a sustainable and mentally healthy way. The journal is designed to assist individuals in gaining confidence in their careers, documenting work accomplishments and navigating work challenges.

Review:

“Before having Daily Work Journal, every time I tried to keep a journal it always ended up being some random journal. This is definitely not the case with DWJ. It’s like a coach guiding me through my monthly, weekly and daily goals and intentions. And the best part, I don’t write random stuff but what is essential for me. I greatly recommend having your own DWJ.” — Aditi K.

Cuccio Somatology

Owner: Danielle Cuccio ʼ10

Location: 29120 Avenue Paine, Valencia, CA 91355

Phone: 323-863-5041

Website: https://www.cucciosomatology.com

Email: info@cucciosomatology.com

Social: @cucciosomatology

About:

As a celebrity yoga instructor and a licensed esthetician, Danielle learned about the value of achieving balance in one’s personal and professional life and the effects it had on one’s skin and overall glow. This became the foundation for the creation of Cuccio Somatology — a multi-faceted approach to the study of the body and the development of inner and outer beauty through wellness and self-care. Today, Danielle is the CEO of Cuccio Somatology, one of the fastest-growing, women-led beauty businesses, with a global reach of over 120 countries. Her vision is to continue to bring new and innovative self-care products to people’s homes and to define the principles of today’s Wellness category.

Review:

“I never heard of this before but once I smelled it, I was absolutely in love. It goes on the outfits without leaving any type of stain and it smells absolutely fabulous and lasts all day. This was the cutest and sweetest gift. My mother was so delighted and I love sniffing the little one afterwards. We never put it directly on her skin but it was always a mist on clothing and blankets and everything smelled divine. Definitely a good value. It's a nice size bottle also.” — Rina B.

Honeycut

Owner: Darcy Post ʼ84

Location: 2925 College Ave., Suite A2, Costa Mesa CA 92626

Phone: 949-478-1960

Website: https://honeycutofficial.com

Email: honeycutofficial@gmail.com

Social: @honeycutofficial

About:

From the hive, located in Southern California, creative director and owner Darcy Post and her team conceive and curate this contemporary dancewear line. Channeling their obvious love of movement, saltwater and a natural boho beach lifestyle, the collection combines form and function and brings an ever-fresh perspective to the dynamic dance world.

Review:

“Love these pants! These are my new favorite dance pants. I've been wearing them nonstop at class and conventions. They stand out in crowded convention classes and are so comfy and versatile with the snaps. Honeycut is the best and the customer service is so superior.”
— Samantha

Dreamy Vegan

Owner: Tanisha Pitts ʼ07

Services: E-Commerce

Phone: 562-450-3334

Website: https://dreamyvegan.com

Email: hello@dreamyvegan.com

Social: @dreamyvegan

About:

Welcome to Dreamy Vegan, where every spoonful whisks you away on a whimsical journey to the sweetest corners of your childhood. Our founder, Tanisha, drew inspiration from the love of her family and the magic of her great-grandmother, Meme, to create a world of delectable dairy-free delights.

Review:

“Loveee dreamy vegan! I honestly was shocked by how good the popsicles tasted. When you hear vegan anything you automatically assume it would taste like something is missing but it’s the exact opposite! The ice cream tastes delicious and the fact that it’s a healthy alternative to regular ice cream is a bonus! I enjoy eating the ice cream without feeling guilty about it. Highly recommend it to anyone who hasn’t tried it yet! You won’t be disappointed.” — Bonnie W.

District Clay Center

Owner: Cass Johnson ʼ81, MBA ʼ88

Location: 2414 Douglas St. NE, Washington, DC 20018

Phone: 301-615-1434

Website: https://www.districtclaycenter.com

Email: membership@districtclaycenter.com

Social: @districtclaycenter

About:

Washington, D.C., while rich in many arts and crafts, has lacked a single dedicated ceramic center, until now. Unlike many cities of its size (such as neighboring Philadelphia and Baltimore) there has been no institution that provides the full spectrum of ceramic offerings. In November 2016, the new District Clay Center more than tripled in size to include a ceramic gallery, cultural outreach and education, community and low-income classes, private studio space, regular Master Class workshops, guest resident artists and the largest array of ceramic equipment in the Washington area.

Review:

“I love District Clay Center! I highly recommend it as an introductory pottery studio. It is a large teaching studio (the largest in the area). The teachers are great and knowledgeable. Once you get in a class you are able to drop in on any other scheduled classes to practice. Getting off the waitlist can be a challenge; I recommend signing up for as many waitlists as possible.” — Sam G.

Orange County Guitar Academy

Owner: Payam Larijani ʼ01

Location: 4561 Pinyon Tree Lane, Irvine, CA 92612

Phone: 949-231-2763

Website: https://orangecountyguitaracademy.com

Social: @payam.larijani

About:

Orange County Guitar Academy was founded by Dr. Payam Larijani, who is a current alumni member of the 2019 UCLA Guitar Ensemble directed by Professor Peter Yates. Payam completed his doctorate in musical arts at Claremont Graduate University with an emphasis on classical guitar performance, music history and music recording technology. He also successfully pursued a masterʼs degree in commercial music from CSU Los Angeles and has worked with many leaders of the industry. Today, Payam offers students not just his expertise in playing music, but also his experiences in navigating the ins and outs of the music industry. Payam’s professional skills and passion for teaching are evident in his commitment to academic achievement.

Review:

“Dr. Payam is a wonderful guitar teacher. Both my teenage daughters took lessons with him and he is able to tailor his teaching to their levels since one has musical background and the other didn’t. They both enjoyed their lessons and Dr. Payam often go above and beyond to give them guidance. We appreciate his teaching style and patience very much. His love and passion for music is evident in his lessons as he encourages kids to elevate their appreciation for music through guitar.” — Christina L.

J.N. Shapiro Watches

Owner: Josh Shapiro ʼ08

Services: E-Commerce

Website: https://www.jnshapirowatches.com

Email: info@jnshapirowatches.com

Social: @jnshapiro_watches

About:

Joshua Shapiro is the founder and CEO of J.N. Shapiro Watches, a brand recognized for its dedication to precision and craftsmanship. With a background in education, holding both a bachelor's and a master's degree in U.S. history, Shapiro's journey into watchmaking began with the creation of traditional engine-turned dials for other watchmakers. In 2018, the brand introduced the Infinity Series, showcasing intricate engine-turned dials crafted from traditional and exotic materials. A milestone was reached in December 2021 when J.N. Shapiro Watches produced the first tantalum wristwatch cases made outside of Switzerland for the Infinity Series. The brand's latest creation, The Resurgence, is a fully U.S.-made watch that has been in development for over four years. It represents the culmination of a vision rooted in humble beginnings, aiming to inspire individuals to strive for perfection and appreciate both the journey and the destination.

Review:

“The dial is the star of the show and is amazing. I wonder how cutting into this material was accomplished. There must have been a few accidents and throwing away some meteorite dials may have had to happen. This was accomplished and added some texture to the dial in addition to the natural pattern of the meteorite. This makes this a step up from other meteorite dials in my humble opinion. This combined with the blued hands and chapter ring just completes this amazing dial. The movement is no slouch either. I think Sinn used this movement in one of their watches and it’s beautiful to look at. This is a great watch and J.N. Shapiro deserves a wider audience. This is a brand that I’d love to support sometime in the future.” — Richard B.

The Racket Doctor

Owner: Jan Rashoff Lee ʼ87

Location: 3214 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039

Phone: 323-663-6601

Website: https://www.racketdoctor.com

Email: info@racketdoctor.com

Social: @racketdoctor

About:

SoCal's undisputed GOAT of legendary tennis shops. Don't get salty, it's a fact. Racket Doctor is the iconic standard-bearer: 50-plus years and still thriving in our original location. Home to certified stringers, Master Racket Technicians (MRTs) and killer selection – it's the winning formula. We don't settle for average and neither should you. And that's why we're still evolving, still pushing the limits...

Review:

“Super great spot. The store feels very welcoming and the staff is very friendly and helpful. They also have very fast service. I made an appointment to get my racket re-strung and shopped while I waited. In and out in under half an hour, no need to drop off my racket and come back to get it. I imagine they probably get busy sometimes so if you want to get in and out, I would call ahead to make an appointment.” - Kevin C.

***

To submit a Bruin-owned business for future consideration, please send a note to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

All Bruin-Owned Business Articles

Books by Bruins - Vol. II

f you’re looking for a new book to settle down with over the holidays, or gift a loved one, why not get one written by a Bruin? In continuation of the Books by Bruins series, we've put together a list with something for every reader — from young adult mysteries to memoirs or a nonfiction bestseller if that’s more your taste.

Have you written a book or do you know an alum who has? Take a look at our list of Bruin authors at the bottom. If you don't see their name, be sure to enter their information to be included in the online Bruin Library coming soon.

“Desert Echoes” (2024) by Abdi Nazemian, MBA ’14

Iranian-American author, screenwriter and producer Abdi Nazemian has written six novels, including “Desert Echoes,” a young adult novel about loss and love. His book “Only This Beautiful Moment” received both the Lambda Literary Award and a Stonewall Book Award. Nazemian is also a screenwriter and producer with credits including films “The Artist’s Wife” and “Menendez: Blood Brothers.”

Review:

“This story, told in three points of view from three generations of the same family, is nothing short of masterful. This is the kind of story that young adult literature is made for — a story of the heart, of the very real human struggles young people face and that adults try to — but never truly — forget.” — ALA Booklist (starred review)

“We the Corporations: How American Businesses Won Their Civil Rights” (2018) by Adam Winkler

Adam Winkler explores the Supreme Court decision to extend free speech and religious liberty to corporations. The book was a finalist for the National Book Award, the American Bar Association's Silver Gavel Award and the California Book Award. Winkler is a professor at UCLA School of Law, where he specializes in American constitutional law. He is also the author of “Gunfight: The Battle over the Right to Bear Arms in America,” which explores the ongoing political battle.

Review:

“Much of the value of Winkler’s book lies in his elegant stitching together of 400 years of diverse cases, allowing us to feel the sweep and flow of history and the constantly shifting legal approaches to understanding this unusual entity ― Blackstone’s ‘artificial person.’ Four hundred years is a lot of time, and Winkler does a wonderful job of finding illustrative details without drowning in them, and of giving each case enough attention to make it come alive…By nailing down the absurdities of the past, Winkler allows us to see how the future becomes more open.” ― Zephyr Teachout, New York Times Book Review

“Compton in My Soul: A Life in Pursuit of Racial Equality” (2024) by Albert Camarillo ’70, Ph.D. ’75

Entering UCLA in the mid-1960s, Camarillo was one of only 50 Mexican American students, and became one of the first Mexican Americans to earn a Ph.D. in history in the country. He is widely regarded as one of the founding scholars of the field of Mexican American history and Chicano Studies. At UCLA, he played basketball under legendary Coach John Wooden with teammate Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ʼ69. The author of seven books and numerous articles and papers, “Compton in My Soul” weaves his personal story with the history of his L.A. neighborhood.

Review:

“Al Camarillo has been a mentor, role model and inspiring educator to thousands of students over decades. His life's journey reminds us of the wonderful progress America has made toward racial equality and also inspires us to keep working hard to close the gaps that still exist.” ―Julián Castro, Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

“Craft: Stories I Wrote for the Devil” (2024) by Ananda Lima, M.A. ’08

Ananda Lima came to UCLA from her home of Brasília on a study-abroad program, returning to earn her master’s in linguistics. She is a poet, translator and fiction writer. Her 2021 poetry collection, “Mother/land,” was awarded the Hudson Prize. “Craft: Stories I Wrote for the Devil" is her fiction debut, a book of stories that travel through time and place.

Review:

“Irreverent and very conscious of form, this is a remarkable debut that announces the arrival of a towering talent in speculative fiction.” ―The New York Times

“Soldiers and Kings: Survival and Hope in the World of Human Smuggling” (2024) by Jason De León ’01

The winner of the 2024 National Book Award for nonfiction is a character-driven look at human smuggling which revolves around a coyote (human smuggler). De León spent seven years chronicling the lives of people living on the border to be able to share their stories. A UCLA anthropology professor, he is also the author of “The Land of Open Graves: Living and Dying on the Sonoran Desert Migrant Trail” (2015).

Review:

“The book’s great virtue is in its close attention to the individual lives of its small group of central characters...toggling between the macro and the micro: the globe-spanning, incomprehensibly vast forces that have brought these smugglers’ lives into being, as well as their own individual struggles to make something of what the world has made of them.” — The New Republic

“Super-Italian: More Than 110 Indulgent Recipes Using Italy's Healthiest Foods” (2025) by Giada de Laurentiis ’96

Giada De Laurentiis is the author of 10 New York Times bestselling cookbooks. Her first cookbook “Everyday Italian,” based on her TV show, has almost 1,500 reviews on Amazon and 50,000 ratings on Goodreads. It introduced her take on Italian-American recipes. Twenty years later, her newest cookbook, Super Italian, will be released in March, 2025, with recipes that use Italian superfoods to create nutritious and delicious meals. She is an Emmy winning television host, a judge on Food Network Star and the owner of three restaurants.

Review for “Giada’s Italy”

“After so many years of focusing on convenience, I love that we’re all getting a little more savvy about foreign ingredients and that Giada can showcase local foods and tempt us with new flavors, picking out a whole red snapper at the market, slicing up fennel like it’s no big thing and telling you why you have to try Calabrian chiles (no seriously, try them). If you’re hungry for fresh and light Italian fare, and are craving an escape to the coast, come back for this one.” — the kitchn

“26 Marathons: What I Learned About Faith, Identity, Running, and Life from My Marathon Career” (2019) by Meb Keflezighi ’99

Long-distance runner Meb Keflezighi was recruited by UCLA in 1994, where he won four NCAA distance titles and earned a degree in communication studies. The four-time Olympian is the only man in U.S. history to win the Boston Marathon (2014), the New York City Marathon (2009) and to medal in the Olympics (Athens). In his newest book, he shares the life lessons he has gained through the hard work and sacrifice that went into completing 26 marathons.

Review:

“Meb’s 26 Marathons is like opening a treasure chest full of inspiring stories that give a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the mental and physical joys and obstacles that elite-level racing can bring. His advice on training, overcoming injuries, and adversity is for everyone. It’s pure gold!” — Shalane Flanagan, 2017 TCS NYC Marathon Champion

“At the Hour Between Dog and Wolf” (2023) by Tara Ison ’87

A graduate of the UCLA Department of English, where she studied literature and creative writing, Tara Ison is the author of books including “A Child out of Alcatraz,” a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize, and the essay collection, “Reeling Through Life: How I Learned to Live, Love, and Die at the Movies.” Her book “At the Hour Between Dog and Wolf” tells the World War II story of a twelve-year-old Jewish girl hiding in plain sight from the Nazis.

Review:

“’At the Hour Between Dog and Wolf’ is a thrilling novel, not just as a splendid read but as a deeply resonant work of art driven by the central yearning in the greatest literary narratives: the yearning for a self, for an identity, for a place in the world. Tara Ison has always been a writer I've ardently admired. Here she is at the height of her estimable powers.” — Robert Olen Butler, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “A Good Scent from a Strange Mountain” and “Paris in the Dark”

“Brown Girls Do Ballet: Celebrating Diverse Girls Taking Center Stage” (2024) by JaNay Brown-Wood ʼ07

Children’s picture book author JaNay Brown-Wood grew up in Fresno, California, and followed her interests in writing and children’s education to UCLA, where she studied psychology and applied developmental psychology. She is an early childhood professor and the author of many books for children. Her first book, “Imani’s Moon,” won the NAESP Children’s Book of the Year Award. Her book “Brown Girls Do Ballet: Celebrating Diverse Girls Taking Center Stage” comes out next year.

Review:

“Photographs of brown girls of all ages, shapes, skin tones and abilities are the star of this empowering ode to the grace and beauty of dancing brown bodies.... text and image(s) send the fierce message not just that ballet is for everyone, but that brown girls, too, have the right to move, to take up space and to be seen.” — School Library Journal, starred review

“Kill Her Twice” (2024) by Stacey Lee ’93

Stacey Lee is the New York Times bestselling author of young adult fiction, including the New York Times bestseller “The Downstairs Girl.” A fourth-generation Chinese American, her books have won the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association Award, the PEN Center Award for YA and the Golden Poppy Award. She is a co-founder of the We Need Diverse Books movement. Her newest book, “Kill Her Twice,” is a young adult murder mystery that takes place in 1930s Los Angeles's Chinatown.

Review:

“Takes readers on a wild ride. Woven into the mystery are elements of grief, romance, family dynamics, struggle, prejudice and deceit. Lee skillfully introduces actual history into this fictional story, leading readers to learn what the residents of L.A.'s Old Chinatown faced. The story contains intriguing characters, but not everyone is who or what they appear — these twists will delight readers . . . Whether teens enjoy mysteries, historical fiction or both, this is one to get into their hands.” — School Library Journal, starred review

“All My Rage” (2022) by Sabaa Tahir ’04

Sabaa Tahir grew up at her family's 18-room motel in California's Mojave Desert. The former newspaper editor is the author of the bestselling “Ember in the Ashes” series, which has been translated into more than 35 languages. The first book in the series, “An Ember in the Ashes,” was named one of TIME's 100 Best Young Adult Books of All Time. Tahir's most recent novel, “All My Rage,” won the National Book Award for Young People's Literature in 2022.

Review:

“’All My Rage’ is a love story, a tragedy and an infectious teenage fever dream about what home means when you feel you don't fit in.” — New York Times Book Review

“Gay Bar: Why We Went Out” (2021) by Jeremy Atherton Lin ʼ96

In this National Book Critics Circle Award winner, Jeremy Atherton Lin embarks upon a historical, transatlantic tour of gay bars, a place of solidarity and sexual expression. From Hollywood in the 1970s to London in the 1770s, he charts police raids and riots, as well as his own personal history. Atherton Lin is an Asian-American essayist based in Los Angeles and East Sussex, England. His debut book “Gay Bar” was listed in the New York Times Critics' Top Books of 2021 and received the National Book Critics Circle Award for Autobiography. His memoir, “Deep House,” will be published in 2025

Review:

“A remarkable debut. . . it’s a difficult book to pin down, but that’s what makes it so readable and so endlessly fascinating. . . Each observation is sharp and phrased beautifully; Atherton Lin wastes no words, and the ones he chooses are carefully considered. Gay Bar is a book that’s beyond impressive, and Atherton Lin’s writing is both extremely intelligent and refreshingly unpretentious.” ― NPR

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Books by Bruins Library

Previous articles in the Books by Bruins series

We’re building an online Bruin Library and these are the alumni authors we have thus far. Don’t see a name that should be in there? Submit a Bruin author.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ’69

Leisy J. Abrego, M.A. ’02, Ph.D. ’08

Gary Adams ’62, M.S. ’64

AJ Addae, M.S. ’24

Malik Adunni ’98

Tanzila “Taz” Ahmed, M.P.P. ’07

Troy Aikman ’08

Kermit Alexander ’71

John Ambrecht ’66, M.B.A. ’68

Patricia Rieff Anawalt ’57, M.A. ’71, Ph.D. ’75

David Anaxagoras, M.F.A. ’05

Nick Anez ’65

Jacquelyn Ardam, M.A. ’10, Ph.D. ’15

Gustavo Arellano ’03

Amada Armenta, M.A. ’06, Ph.D. ’11

MK Asante

Arthur Ashe ’66

Sean Astin ’97

Dale Atkins, Ph.D. ’82

Nancy Austin ’71, MBA ’77

Arushi Avachat ’24

Erika Ayón ’04

Tracy Badua ’06

Kenneth P. Bailey ’34, M.A. ’36, Ph.D. ’38

Sara Bareilles ’03

Bill Barrett ’82

Uta Barth, M.F.A. ’85

Mike Befeler, M.B.A. ’68

Wendell Bell ’52

Max Benavidez ’74

Jeff W. Bens, M.F.A. ’92

Judith Berlowitz ’62, Ph.D.

Susan Berman ’67

Jeff Berry ’95

John Beumer III, DDS

Henry Bibby ’72

Justina Blakeney ’01

Tony Blankley

Zach Blas, M.F.A. ’08

Kate Bolton Bonnici, Ph.D.

Kelly Bowen ’90

Jacqueline R. Braitman ’79, M.A. ’81, Ph.D. ’88

Kristen Hansen Brakeman ’85

Nathaniel Branden ’51

Lee Breuer ’58

Joanna Brooks, Ph.D. ’99

Barbara Brooks Wallace ’45

Daniel James Brown, M.A. ’77

Diane Marie Brown

JaNay Brown-Wood ’07

Cory Buckner, M.Arch. ’00

Vincent T. Bugliosi, J.D. ’64

Ralph Bunche ’27

Carol Burnett (1951-1954)

Eric Byrnes (1995-98)

Albert Camarillo ’70, Ph.D. ’75

Rosemary Candelario, Ph.D. ’11

Stephen Cass, Ph.D. ’97

Stacie Cassarino, M.A. ’10

Carlos Castaneda ’62, Ph.D. ’73

Vija Celmins, M.F.A. ’65

Doris Chau ’06 (aka Michele Youk)

Lucy Chen, M.S. ’96

Brandie June Chernow ’05, MBA ’11

Judy Chicago ’62, M.A. ’64

Teddi Chichester, M.A. '89, Ph.D. ’92

Samantha Childs, J.D. ’05

Frank Chuman ’38

Marcia Clark ’76

Tamara Cole ’19

Derrick Coleman ’12

Jimmy Connors 1970-71

Lauren Cook ’13

David Cook-Martín ’05

William Cooper ’04

Wyatt Emory Cooper

Francis Ford Coppola, M.F.A. ’67

Alicia Coulter, M.P.H. ’20

Steve Cuden, M.F.A. ’10

Samuel Culbert, Ph.D. ’66

Maria Dadouch ’16

Tim Daggett ’86

Thi Dao ’07

Jasmin Darznik, Ph.D. ’94

Robert Dassanowsky ’85, M.A. ‘88, Ph.D. ‘92

Giada De Laurentiis ’96

Jason De León ’01

Jack Deignan ʼ22

Meera E. Deo, Ph.D. ’96

Gail Devers ’89

Edward M. Dew, Ph.D. ’66

John Divola

Jorell Domingo '99

Tisha Gonda Domingo '98

Sheila Cornell Douty ’84

Diane Dreher, M.A. ’70, Ph.D. ’73

Joshua Dressler ’68, J.D. ’73

Larry Dressler, MBA ’88

Dorothy Dubrule, M.F.A. ’16

Ramani Durvasula '91

Noushin Ehsan, M.Arch. ’72

Chukwuma Ekwueme, M.S. ’90, Ph.D. ’92, Ph.D. ’94

JJ Elliott ’95

Sue Enquist ’80

Brad M. Epstein, MBA ’00

Leslie Erganian, M.F.A. ’93

Mario Ewell, M.A. ’20

FM-2030 ’52 (aka F.M. Esfandiary)

Sharna Fabiano, M.F.A. ’14

Paul Falcone '85, M.A.'87, Cert. '92

Larry Farmer '76

Warren Farrell, M.A. ’66

David Fine ’83

Amy Finley ’96

Daniel Fittante ’05, Ph.D. ’18, M.A.’19

Alfred Peredo Flores, M.A. ’10, Ph.D. ’15

Martin Ford, MBA ’91

Will Forte ’93

Allen Fox ’61, Ph.D. ’68

Carribean Fragoza ’03

Richard Freer, J.D. ’78

Brad Friedel ’92

Martin Friedman

Victoria Fromkin, M.A. ’63, Ph.D. ’65

Alice Fulmer ’20

Dina Gachman ’96

Birutė Galdikas ’66, M.A. ’69

Scott Galloway ’87

Patricia Gándara ’69, Ph.D. ’79

Todd Gannon, Ph.D. ’11

Thomas Ray Garcia, M.A. ’20

George T. Geis, MBA ’81

Leslie Gilbert-Lurie, J.D. ’84

Christianne Bengard Gillespie ’04

Kirsten Gillibrand, J.D. ’91

Howard Gillman ’80, M.A. ’81, Ph.D. ’88

Lee Goldberg ’84

Marshall Goldsmith, Ph.D. ’77

Juan Gomez Quinones

Dr. Juan Gómez-Quiñones

Martha Gonzalez ’99

Edward Gorbis, M.S. ’13

Hannah Gordon ’03

Kelly Goto ’91

Matt Goulding ’03

Greg Graffin ʼ87, M.S. ʼ90

Andrew Grant, M.A. ’12, Ph.D. ’16

Judith Kerr Graven ’60

Joan M. Griffin ’77

Kristin Griffith, MBA ’06, Cert. ’24

Kim Gruenenfelder '89

Diane Yu Gu, M.A. ’09, Ph.D. ’12

Brian R. Haig, D.D.S.’05, Cert. ’22,

Jeffrey D. Haig ’88, Cert. ’01

Irene Han, Ph.D. ’17

Lisa Hanawalt ’06

Max Handelman, MBA ’03

Christopher P. Hanscom, M.A. ’00, Ph.D. ’06

Chris Hardwick ’93

Sam Harris, Ph.D. ’09

Nicola Harrison ’01

LaMar Hasbrouck, M.D. ’94

Laurie Lewis Havel ’72

Florence Parry Heide ’39

Kelly Lytle Hernández, Ph.D. ’02

Juan Felipe Herrera ’72

Alan Hess, M.Arch. ’78

Andy Hill ’74, M.A. ’76

Melanie Ho ’01, M.A. ’05, Ph.D. ’08

Rachel Hoffman, Ph.D. ’97

Alice Hom, M.A. ’92

Megan Hopkins, Ph.D. ’11

Richard G. Hovannisian, Ph.D. ’66

Lindsay Pérez Huber, Ph.D. ’10

Qamar-ul Huda ’93, Ph.D. ’98

Therese Agnes Hughes, MA ’99

Dana Ellis Hunnes, M.P.H. ’07, Ph.D. ’13

Darnell Hunt, M.A. ’91, Ph.D. ’94

Melvin Briggs Hunt ’34

Lolita Buckner Inniss, J.D. ’86

Janna Ireland, M.F.A. ’13

John Keith Irwin

Karen L. Ishizuka Ph.D. ’11

Tara Ison ’87

Ronald N. Jacobs, Ph.D. ’96

Kay Redfield Jamison ’71, M.A. ’71, Ph.D. ’75

Jovita Jenkins, MBA ’94

Frede Jensen, Ph.D. ’61

Rafer Johnson ’59

Stephen A. Johnson ’05, MBA ’21

Janet L. Jones, M.A. ’85, Ph.D. ’89

Florence Griffith Joyner ’83

Jackie Joyner-Kersee ’86

Tara Kangarlou ’09

Mary Uyematsu Kao ‘71, M.A. ’07

Reef Karim, Professional Program ’16

Benjamin Karney, M.A.’92, Ph.D. ’97

Eric Karros ’93

Guy Kawasaki ’79

Erinn Keala ’11

Meb Keflezighi ’99

Faye Kellerman ’74, D.D.S.’78

Jonathan Kellerman ’71

Robin D. G. Kelley, M.A.’85, Ph.D. ’87

Kennedy ’05

Jukka Keränen, Ph.D. ’15

Punita Khanna, M.B.A. ’91, Cert. ’18

Nayiri Khatchadourian ’16

Taran Killam

Stephanie Kim, Ph.D. ’14

Rosalyn Cain King, M.P.H. ’72, Ph.D.

Karch Kiraly ’83

Ezra Klein ’05

Liz Kleinrock, M.Ed. ’13

Laurah Klepinger, M.A. ’01, M.F.A. ’03

Kelsey Knox ’14

Valorie Kondos Field ’87

E.C. Krupp, M.A. ’68, Ph.D. ’72

Stewart Kwoh ’70, J.D. ’74

Yvonne Lacey ’90

Jane Rosenberg LaForge ’83

Bolívar Lamounier, M.A. ‘67, Ph.D. ‘74

Deborah Nadoolman Landis, M.F.A. ’75

Karen T. Lane ’67

Jorja Leap ’78, M.S.W. ’80, Ph.D. ’88

Eileen Lebow ’47, M.A. ’49

Odell Lee ’70

Stacey Lee ’93

Scott Lenga, J.D. ’88

Russell Leong, M.F.A. ’90

Flora Lewis ’41

Corinne Lightweaver ’85

Ananda Lima, M.A. ’08

Jeremy Atherton Lin ’96

Douglas R. Littlefield, Ph.D. ’87

Travis Longcore

Susan Love ’98

Kevin R Lowell ’89

Lilly Lu

Kimberly Mack, M.A. ’11, Ph.D. ’15

Jon MacLennan ’10

Cristina Magaldi, Ph.D. ’94

Kathy E. Magliato, MBA ’06

Alicia Maher ’92

Ray Manzarek

Lara Marlowe ’78

Priscilla Mars ’14

Charlotte Maya, J.D. ’93

Danica McKellar ’98

Gretchen McNeil ʼ97

Cindy Mediavilla MLS ’77, Ph.D. ’00

Tony Medley ’61

Afaf I. Meleis, M.S. ’64, M.A. ’66, Ph.D. ’68

Ann Meyers Drysdale ’79

Jenny Mollen ’00

Heidi Moneymaker ’99

James L. Moody, M.A. ’69

Ichiro Mike Murase ’70

Nathan Myhrvold ’79, M.A. ’79

Carey Nachenberg ’95, M.S. ’95

Leslie Johansen Nack ’92

Eric Nakamura ’83

Julia Nanay ’73

Swen Nater

Abdi Nazemian, MBA ’14

Katie Neipris ’14

Doreen Gehry Nelson ’59

Jim Newton

Maria Nordman

Jerry Norman ’52, M.S. ’57

Ed O’Bannon ʼ11

Anthony Ocampo ’06, Ph.D. ’11

Gary Y. Okihiro, M.A. ’72, Ph.D. ’76

Daniel A. Olivas, J.D. ’84

Norman Ollestad

Adriana Palomares ’04

D.C. Palter, MBA ’95

Liora Paniz ’07

Suzanne Park, MBA ’02

Corey Pavin (1982)

William R. Peers ’37

Anna Penenberg ’76, M.A. ’82

Kal Penn ’00

Frank Peretti, MBA ’16

Raymond Pettibon

Jay Phelan ’85

Carissa Phelps, MBA ’07, J.D. ’07

Edward Poll, B.S. ’62, J.D. ’65

OiYan Poon, Ph.D. ’10

Jenelle Porter, M.A. ’04

Susan Westerberg Prager, J.D. ’71

Tara Prescott-Johnson

Brian R. Price ’95

Herbert Keith Quincy ʼ64, M.A. ʼ67

Max Rafferty '38, M.A. '49

Cassidy Randall ’04

Dwight Read, Ph.D. ’70

Siyon Y. Rhee, M.S.W. ’81, D.S.W. ’88

Dot Richardson ’83

Louise Richardson, M.A. ‘81

Eva Ritvo ’83, M.D.’87

Scott Robertson, M.A. ’09, Ph.D. ’11

Jackie Robinson (1939-1941)

John Rock, M.Arch ’80

Julia Rockwell ’05

Bill Rollinson ’81

Ricardo Romo, Ph.D. '75

Adam Rosenthal ’01

Betsy Rosenthal, J.D. ’84

Lawrence C. Ross Jr. '04, M.F.A. '07

Veronica Rossi ’95

Martine Rothblatt ’77, J.D. ’81, M.B.A. ’81

Vanessa Roveto ’99

Patricia Rust ’78

Kay Ryan ’67, M.A. ’68

Sue Ryan, J.D. ’94

Betye Saar ’49

Michael Sakamoto ’10, M.F.A. ’12

Angela Sanchez ’13, M.Ed. ’15

David Sarasohn, Ph.D. ’76

Rakesh Sarin, Ph.D. ’75

Christen T. Sasaki, M.A. ’06, Ph.D. ’11

Linda Dalal Sawaya '69

Glenn T. Seaborg ’34

Dov Seidman ’87, M.A ’87

Michael Shea ’73

Ben Shapiro ’04

Kathleen Sheldon, M.A. ’77, Ph.D. ’88

Martin J. Sherwin, Ph.D. ’71

Alan Shipnuck ’96

Deborah Shlian, EMBA ’88

Joel Shlian, EMBA ’88

Sangita Shresthova, Ph.D. ’08

Neil Larry Shumsky ’66

Austin Siegemund-Broka, J.D. ’19

Oriel María Siu

Craig Marshall Smith ’69, M.F.A. ’73

Richard Smith, M.A. ’78, Ph.D. ’79

Sinjin Smith ’79

Bart B. Sokolow ’70, M.S. ’73, Ph.D. ’77

Samir Soni ’90

Joi Spencer, Ph.D. ’06, Anderson Cert. ’90

Claire Stanford, M.A. ’18, Ph.D. ’22

Starhawk ’72 (aka Miriam Simos)

Patricia Burke Ziegfeld Stephenson ’36

Stuart Stevens

Richard Stone, M.A. ’71

Woody Strode (1937-39)

Spencer Stueve ’15

Amy Sueyoshi, M.A. ’98, Ph.D. ’02

Kristin Surak ’09

Sabaa Tahir ’04

George Takei ’60, M.A. ’64

Diane J. Terry ’02, M.S.

Donna Tetreault ’92

Anna Thomas ’71, M.A. ’77

Bob Thomas ’43

Heather Anne Thomas ’80

Stuart Timmons ’81

John Tippets ’66, M.B.A. ’67

Angel Trazo, M.A. ’20

Mike Tully ’79

Harry Norman Turtledove ’70, M.A. ’72, Ph.D. ’77

John Ullmen Ph.D.

Kerri Ullucci, Ph.D. ’05

Gabrielle Union ’96

Zulema Valdez ’02

John Vallely ’71

Marius Vassiliou, M.B.A ’91

Peter Vidmar ’83

Monica Vișan, M.A. ’04, Ph.D. ’06

Jennifer M. Volland, M.A. ’06, Cert. ’03

Brian Boxer Wachler ’89

Arami Walker ‘16

Ruth Wallach ’86, M.L.S. ’88

Bill Walton ’71

Ann Suk Wang ’94

Pam Ward ’83

Dana Cairns Watson ’89, M.A. ’93, Ph.D. ’96

Joan Waugh ’80, M.A. ’82, Ph.D. ’92

Mia Wenjen, M.B.A. ’93

Sarah Wilbur, M.F.A. ’12, Ph.D. ’16

Alessandra Williams, M.A. ’13, Ph.D. ‘16

Judy Willis, M.D. ’75

Adam Winkler

Eric Winter ’00

Stacy Wise ’92

Kristina Wong ’00

Dawn Wynne ’84

James N. Yamazaki ’39, M.D.

Teresa Yang, D.D.S. ’83

Becca Yanniello, M.P.H. ’11

Tiffany Yap, M.S. ’09, Ph.D. ’16

Zev Yaroslavsky ’71, M.A. ’72

Ehsan Zaffar ’05

Amir Zaki, M.F.A. ’99

Christopher Zyda ’84, M.B.A. ’89

Bruin-Owned Beverage Businesses 2

ho’s ready for a drink? Whether it’s a refreshing craft beer or specialty coffee, a fruity cocktail or full-bodied wine, this sequel to 2021’s Bruin-Owned Beverage Businesses will tempt you to taste UCLA excellence in liquid form. Order online or go out for a good time with friends to quench your summer thirst!

First Draft Taproom and Kitchen

Founders: Carol Pickle '77 and Kevin Slattery '77

Location: 1230 S. Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90015

Phone: 213-536-5267

Website: firstdraftdtla.com

Email: mark@firstdraft.beer

Social: @firstdraftdtla

About:

First Draft LA is located in the South Park area of Downtown Los Angeles while First Draft Denver resides in the RiNo area of Denver. Both establishments provide a location where beer, cider, wine and hard seltzer enthusiasts can meet and socialize, while enjoying high-quality products in an information-based environment. In L.A.'s 70-tap environment, customers use tap card technology to individually manage their drinking and eating experience. First Draft provides a wide-ranging set of food selections, all locally sourced. Located on the northeast corner of Olive and Pico streets, just a few blocks from LA Live, Crypto.com Arena and the Convention Center, First Draft combines the self-serve technologies of Pour Your Own, amazing food selections, a great staff, several different event and party areas, and an awesome heated outdoor patio and atmosphere. First Draft Taproom and Kitchen supports UCLA Athletics.

Review:

“Great food, huge beer selection and cool vibe. Our first time visiting, take a minute to register and get a tap card, use the tap card for whatever beer or beers you want up to 32oz per day. You pay by the ounce at the end of the meal and they can give you a report that shows what you had and how much. It is easy to track what beers you like. The food was great, fresh burger, tasty fried cauliflower, pretzel balls and the mac and cheese were perfect. Kids are welcome, upstairs/downstairs and inside/outside seating choices. Great stop before a game or next time you are downtown!” - Chris W.

The New Bar

Founder: Brianda Gonzalez ’17

Location: 1821 S. Lincoln Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90291

Phone: 424-781-9962

Website: thenewbar.com

Email: contact@thenewbar.com

Social: @thenewbar

About:

The New Bar is a place for anyone and everyone who wants to drink less. We’re not here to judge you. We’re here to give you products, tools and information to be more mindful, intentional and healthy about the way you drink — whatever that means to you. We’ve spent a lot of time discovering what's out there in the nonalcoholic beverage world, so now when we pick products for our site, we know what we're looking for and have standards every product should meet. We hope that you find this place useful, and that you have a good time using it. And we hope that you discover what we know to be true — that it’s fun to be good to yourself.

Review:

“What a delightful experience! Misha greeted me with a delicious cocktail! She told me about a couple of different non-alcoholic wines. Some I knew and some I didn't. They have a ton of non-alcoholic beers, wines, mocktails, etc. Great prices too.” - Erika S.

TuMe

Co-Founder: Shaina Zaidi ’07

Location: E-Commerce

Phone: 818-237-5105

Website: drinktume.com

Email: info@drinktume.com

Social: @tumewater

About:

Team TuMe is comprised of a family of athletes, doctors and scientists. Together we combine science with ancient Ayurveda medicine, aka “science of life,” to bring a sports water unlike any other sports drink. We were tired of the typical sugary sports drinks, overpriced juices and water with no added benefits, so we set out to create something better and reinvented sports drinks for the modern athlete.

Review:

“I am a doctor and I know about the benefits of turmeric. I drink TuMe to boost my immunity and give me energy for long shifts. It's kid-friendly and mine love it!" - K. W.

Hall Of Fame Spirits

Founder: Jerry Draper ’92

Location: E-Commerce based in Scottsdale, Arizona

Website: halloffamespirits.com

Email: team@hofvodka.com

Social: @HOFVodka

About:

A passion for perfection and the enjoyment of all aspects of the game runs deep in our Hall Of Fame Spirits family. Our mission is twofold. First and foremost is to inspire the world’s best American-made ultra-premium Vodka. Second is to create a distinctive brand that bottles and elicits all the intensity, emotions, valence and fandom that endears us to the game and makes us true sports fans!

Review:

“I was looking to try a different vodka. I like to try different brands and types except flavored (eww). This one tastes good. No bite, no strong alcohol smell. I really like the 90 proof!” - DMT

Moonwake Coffee Roasters

Co-Founder: Mabel Yeung ’13

Location: E-Commerce and Mobile Popup in Cupertino, California

Phone: 408-320-5813

Website: moonwakecoffeeroasters.com

Social: @moonwakecoffeeroasters

About:

Moonwake Coffee Roasters is dedicated to producing specialty coffee that brings you a moment of calm, respite and introspection from the world outside — in whatever circumstance life finds you. We meticulously curate and roast in small batches to present you with an enjoyable, captivating cup. Our name “Moonwake” comes from the reflection of the moon on a body of water — a place where we can forget our troubles, even if only briefly.

Review:

“These folks simply roast delicious coffee! They are very particular as to the quality and have a staff that is really into and enjoys coffee! I'm going back just to trust them and try a suggested drink of some sort I've never had before as I really like coffee as well! Friendly, fun...‍” - Brian D.

CALI Distillery

Co-Founder: Howard Witkin ’87

Location: 8950 W. Olympic Blvd, Suite 179, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Phone: 424-286-2474

Website: calidistillery.com

Email: info@calidistillery.com

Social: @calidistillery

About:

California is a sun-washed land of dreamers and builders, with a relaxed creativity and natural luxury inspiring the world. CALI whiskeys are a reflection of that warm, welcoming, mellow culture. Rich and smooth with a deep tan and a bit of easy-going complexity, CALI Distillery whiskeys are a California twist on classic American sipping whiskeys. We hope that you will enjoy our spirits and share with your friends. We make every bottle by hand — in our little beach town distilled spirits plant — from all-natural ingredients.

Review:

“I thought this was closer to a traditional whiskey with sweet notes but it’s more like a honey bourbon. It’s good but sweeter than I thought. If you like a honey bourbon this would definitely be one to try.” - K.O.

Couplet Coffee

Founder: Gefen Skolnick ’20

Location: E-Commerce and Multiple Locations

Website: coupletcoffee.com

Email: gefen@coupletcoffee.com

Social: @couplet

About:

Hi. We're Couplet. We’re passionate about specialty coffee, but it’s just sooooo douchey. Queer woman-owned and built for everyone, we created Couplet to make great coffee more fun and approachable. We skip the pretentious tasting notes and gatekeeping and get right to the good part — ridiculously delicious coffee you can prepare however you like.

Review:

“Couplet Coffee totally rocked my world! Being part of the LGBTQ+ family, it's so cool to support this queer-owned spot. The owner's vibes are super welcoming and inclusive. And even though I'm not usually a coffee person, their brews are off the charts, seriously. They're all about diversity and inclusivity, which is so rad. I can't wait to swing by Couplet Coffee again – it's not just about the coffee; it's about the whole awesome vibe they've got going on.” - Walid M.

Aura Bora

Co-Founder: Paul Voge ’16

Location: E-Commerce and Multiple Stores

Website: aurabora.com

Email: hello@aurabora.com

Social: @drinkaurabora

About:

If sparkling water is meant to be delightful and delicious, why do most brands have uninspired flavors, icky ingredients, added sweeteners and bitter aftertastes? We took matters into our own hands. After years of flavor testing, ingredient sourcing and carbonation tweaking, Aura Bora was born! A delicious and flavorful sparkling water made with herbs, fruits and flowers.

Review:

“I love the unique taste of each of the flavors. I tried just about all of them and maybe some are better than others, but I like all of them. At this point, the only problem I’m having is out of stock and currently unavailable. The cans sometimes come slightly damaged but so far none are too damaged to keep me from drinking.” - Vicky W.

Royal Wine & Spirits

Founder: David Green ’90

Location: E-Commerce

Phone: 707-280-1217

Website: royalwinespirit.com

Email: david@royalwinespirit.com

Social: @RoyalPrinceWines

About:

Royal Wine & Spirits is a modern boutique négociant house, committed to sourcing and making American wines that consistently transcend their price points. With over 50,000 cases in production and a growing stable of brands, Royal Wine & Spirits is poised for significant expansion. Our world-class wine-making team upholds the highest quality at every point in the wine-making process. We own our responsibility to produce quality. We touch every price point, creating wines of precision, power, elegance and zero pretentiousness. All of this defines our mission, to democratize deliciousness.

Review:

“Deep-black fruits, generous oak spices and a velvety texture add up to a luscious, drinkable wine with plenty of heft on the palate and a lingering finish. The wine is laced with fine-grained tannins that give it some grip without harshness.” - W.E.

Enelalma

Founder: Melanie Shelby ’95

Location: E-Commerce

Website: enelalmatequila.com

Email: info@enelalmatequila.com

Social: @enelalmatequila

About:

The soul is the foundation of our personality, intellect, will and emotion. It endures the physical to see beyond. Tasting Enelalma epitomizes that experience in every sip. From the passion of our founder Melanie Shelby to the artistry of our master distiller Oscar Vazquez to the rich terroir and beauty of the Highlands; culture, legacy and distinction await your journey of discovery. Enelalma honors the rich legacy, heritage and shared experience of indigenous and African-American cultures through partnership and collaboration.

Review:

“Agave forward, fairly sweet and a nice long finish. Not overly complex. Would be a great choice for someone starting their journey into quality tequila.” - Dustin L.

DrinkLyte

Founder: Victoria Brodsky, MBA ’23

Location: E-Commerce

Phone: 310-905-6755

Website: drinklyte.co

Email: hello@drinklyte.co

Social: @drinklyte

About:

DrinkLyte is a lightning-fast electrolyte rehydration that helps you recover after you've been drinking so you can be healthier and feel your best the next day.

Review:

“I tried DrinkLyte for the first time at an event when I was out in L.A. for a conference. I have to say, it is hands down my favorite rehydration solution on the market. I have tried almost every brand and DrinkLyte is the best tasting and most effective. I live in Colorado and I buy them online religiously. 10/10 recommend.” - Blake M.

Trail Marker Wine Company

Co-Founder: Emily Virgil, MBA ’21

Location: E-Commerce

Website: trailmarkerwineco.com

Email: hello@trailmarkerwineco.com

Social: @trailmarkerwineco

About:

We source fruit from family-owned, responsibly farmed and passionately cared for vineyards from the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mendocino Coast and Lodi. Our minimal intervention winemaking style allows us to make wines that are high acid, and low alcohol — well-balanced expressions of these excellent vineyards. We serve our wines at our table with great pride and think you will too.

Review:

“Yum. Nice nose. Light, but vibrant red fruit. Delicate. Spices, light acidity, long tangy finish. This is a pinot drinker pinot, not a cab drinker looking for robust wine. Reminds me of Rhy’s pinots, which are outstanding. Very good wine, I would definitely buy again and in bulk.” - Jon K.

Saṃsāra

Founder: Aditya Aggarwal ’16

Location: E-Commerce

Phone: 310-402-1717

Website: spacemanspiritslab.com

Email: hello@spacemanandcompany.com

Social: @samsaragin

About:

Saṃsāra is an Indian craft gin that brings people together to celebrate the inherent human passion for self-expression, curiosity and wanderlust. Thoughtfully crafted in a new age India, Saṃsāra bottles the “free spirit” and embodies the very essence of exploration.

Review:

“Warm non-alcoholic pink gin and tonic mixed with Samsāra gin and some ice cubes gives the best flavor and taste. Simple yet the best drink, it's always a pleasure to try some new, wild experiments with this beautiful gin!” - Karan K.

Roots & Vines Wine

Founder: Jennifer White ’97, M.P.P. ’06

Location: E-Commerce

Website: rootsandvineswine.com

Email: info@rootsandvineswine.com

Social: @rootsandvineswine

About:

SISTERcircle honors the legacy of generations of women who labored fruitlessly on vineyards in South Africa through its birth of Roots & Vines Wine. Our wine is exquisitely full-bodied, powerfully sophisticated and distinctively African as its creators. We economically empower Black women and bring exceptional wines from South Africa made by Black women. Without leaving the comfort of your own home, you can immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Africa.

Review:

“Greenish nose with green bell pepper, grassy herbs with dill and sage, a smoky touch and the usual load of gooseberries with some lemon, grapefruit and passion fruit. Crispy fresh on the palate with lively lime and Granny Smith acidity followed by quite the finish with a bit too much grapefruit bitters that cost a few digits, but still lovely SB!” - Raf D.

Armistice Brewing Company

Co-Founder: Alex Zobel, M.A. ’12, Ph.D. ’16

Locations: 845 Marina Bay Parkway, Suite 1, Richmond, CA 9404 — 510-230-4966
1040 Clinton St., Napa, CA 94559 — 707-320-6321

Website: armisticebrewing.com

Email: contact@armisticebrewing.com

Social: @armisticebeer

About:

As siblings, we know firsthand how beer brings people together. The name Armistice gestures toward Richmond's place in twentieth-century geopolitics, but it also describes what brewing beer did for our relationship as brother and sister. We started brewing together as a way of coping and catching up not long after our mother was diagnosed with cancer. When mom’s health took a turn for the worse, we left Los Angeles, where Gregory was pursuing a career in film and television and Alex was finishing her doctorate and moved to our family’s home in Napa to help care for mom. We continued brewing beer together in our family’s big red barn and after winning several prestigious beer competitions, we started hatching plans to open a commercial operation so we could share our beer with more people. After our mother passed in 2015 the barn was torn down, but we saved the wood to incorporate into the taproom bar in a nod to our family roots.

Review:

“Cute little local brew co. Everyone there is always really nice. They have a food truck outside the brewery so you can get some food while you're there. Nice dog-friendly outdoor patio with a fire pit. The service is really good. The staff is very friendly. I really like the seltzer beer that they have. All of their beers are on draft which is cool and they brew everything themselves. They have a wide variety of different beers. Overall it has a chill vibe and fun atmosphere but is definitely more mellow of a spot (not in a bad way)!‍” - Makaela S.

Brouwerij West

Co-Founder: Dave Holop, J.D. ’11

Location: 110 E 22nd Street, Warehouse No. 9, San Pedro, CA 90731

Phone: 310-833-9330

Website: brouwerijwest.com

Email: email@brouwerijwest.com

Social: @brouwerijwest

About:

As a production brewery, tasting room and beer garden, Brouwerij West encompasses 26,000 sq. ft., including 8,000 sq. ft. devoted to visitor use for our tasting room, and 17,000 sq. ft. as an outdoor courtyard/beer garden. The overall tasting room space hosts a multitude of events, including beer festivals, concerts, weddings, conferences and more. Inspired by the past, we brew our beers using traditional ingredients and methods combined with progressive experimentation to produce our own take on classic Belgian-style ales, pilsners, IPAs and more. Our facility is covered with solar panels and generates more electricity than it uses, and our mash filter-based brewery uses 30% less water than traditional breweries.

Review:

“I spend a good chunk of my disposable income at Brouwerij West LOL. The "choose your own to-go cans" are my usual, but sometimes just sitting down with a fresh pour while enjoying the sunset is what the day calls for! I've also attended many events here as well and am always excited for the next. Whether it's New Year's Eve celebrations, a casual Saturday or a covers concert, BW offers SO much to us in San Pedro! Great location, great ambiance, awesome staff, affordable prices... I will sing their praises forever.‍” - A.T.

Progress Brewing

Co-Founders: Diego Benitez, MBA ’19 and Kevin Ogilby ’11

Location: 1822 Chico Ave., South El Monte, CA 91733

Phone: 626-552.9603

Website: progress-brewing.com

Email: info@progress-brewing.com

Social: @progressbrewing

About:

Progress Brewing is one of the original breweries in the San Gabriel Valley, serving up a wide variety of craft beer styles in their South El Monte taproom with outdoor patio seating and an exclusive beer club membership.

Review:

“Smooth and tasty! The description next to that one was creamy ale and it definitely satisfied my taste buds! They also allow you to sample the beers on tap so I went ahead and tried the sandia loca which had chamoy instilled inside the beer already! I am a weenie when it comes to spice but for all the spicy lovers I'd recommend that beer. Overall the staff was great and friendly and the service was very fast. I'd recommend this place for a nice smooth Friday night‍” - Gabby A.

RÄK Spirits

Founder: Karina Saranovic ’09

Location: E-Commerce

Phone: 310-560-9481

Website: rakspirits.com

Email: cheers@rakspirits.com

Social: @rakspirits

About:

A traditional staple of Europe for centuries, rakia is a flavorful, premium spirit made by distilling a variety of fruits and just adding water. It is enjoyed either in its purest form or integrated into endless cocktail recipes. Importantly, it is universally best consumed with good company, family and friends.

Review:

“‍RÄK is an alcohol that actually tastes great by itself and then gets even better in a cocktail. The apricot and pear are my favorites because their unique fruity flavors seem to go with almost everything.” - A.J.M.

Alfred Coffee

Founder: Josh Zad, MBA ’06

Locations: 8428 Melrose Place, Los Angeles, CA 90069 and more

Phone: 323-870-1100

Website: alfred.la

Email: info@alfredcoffee.com

Social: @alfred

About:

Alfred Coffee was founded by entrepreneur Josh Zad on iconic Melrose Place in early 2013. From the start, Alfred was a cult-favorite brand, building a passionate following through an emphasis on bar-raising drinks, eye-catching designs and top-notch customer service. At Alfred, we go beyond classic coffee drinks, offering specialty beverages like our Lavender Latte, Chagaccino, Matchaga and more. For each new cafe, we draw design inspiration from the surrounding neighborhood, while signature elements like our World Famous Iced Vanilla Latte and trademarked tagline “But First, Coffee.” remain steadfast throughout. Alfred currently boasts over 20 locations across Los Angeles, Austin, San Francisco and the Middle East, with more coming soon!

Review:

“Very cute coffee shop on Melrose. Luckily there was no wait to order and the employees were incredibly friendly. The Lavender Latte was amazing! It was so flavorful and complimented the taste of espresso, loved it. I love the dark aesthetic they go for; it's deliberate and creative. They have a table to sit and quite a few other chairs. Very fast service, we waited less than two minutes for both drinks.” - Citlaly T.

Jiant

Co-Founder: Larry Haertel Jr., MBA ’15

Location: E-Commerce and Available in Multiple Locations

Phone: 424-571-3573

Website: drinkjiant.com

Email: hi@drinkjiant.com

Social: @drinkjiant

About:

Founded in 2019 in Los Angeles by Larry Haertel Jr. and Aaron Telch, Jiant (Spelled Wrong, Tastes Right) stands as a pioneer in the modern alcohol industry, offering flavorful, junk-free beverages. Our gluten-free products, including hard teas, kombuchas and cocktail-inspired drinks, are crafted from sustainably sourced ingredients and available across the U.S. Recently, Jiant became Climate Neutral Certified, reflecting our commitment to sustainability by offsetting and reducing our carbon footprint and eliminating plastic from our production. This underscores our pledge to offer products that align with consumer values and environmental stewardship.

Review:

“Delicious pineapple flavor up front with a kick of jalapeño in the back. Tastes just like a margarita, but I know it’s healthy! This is going to be my go-to drink this summer.” Ashley M.‍

Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Founder: Francis Ford Coppola, M.F.A. ’67

Location: 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville, CA 95441

Phone: 707-857-1471

Website: francisfordcoppolawinery.com

Email: guestservices@francisfordcoppolawinery.com

Social: @coppolawine

About:

“I’ve always been influenced by the idea of Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, which was the inspiration for ultimately all modern amusements parks. I remember the beautiful theater pavilions with the curtains painted with peacock feathers that had little ballet performances. At Tivoli, there were rides, but more important than the rides were the cafes and the refreshments, and just the sense of being in a children’s garden, a ‘pleasure garden’ for all people to enjoy — which perhaps is the best phrase to describe what we’re creating here. I thought Francis Ford Coppola Winery could become such a park for the family to go and enjoy, where there are things for kids to do, so they can be close to their parents who are sampling wines and foods.” - Francis Ford Coppola

Review:

“The best. If you love movies and wine, what more could you ask for? This place has it all. 1. There's a pool onsite. If you rent a cabine (which is spendy, but worth it at least once), you have a space to comfortably change, shower and store your things safely. It's very small but was nice to not have to carry everything around for a full day at the winery. 2. They have a full bar in addition to their great selection of wines. They even have fun, unique cocktails. Great for a group. 3. They have a mini-museum that's really well-organized, filled with goodies from Coppola films. Super fun to see and makes it more than ‘just a winery’ experience. 4. The service is great — whether in person or chatting with their staff over the phone/email. We tried a wine tasting (one of which is complimentary if you're part of the wine family) and the person helping us was so informative and kind. 5. They have a wonderful restaurant with delicious food. I can’t recommend this place enough! It's a must-stop every visit to this part of California.” Katherine S.

***

To submit a Bruin-owned business for future consideration, please send a note to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

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Bruin-Owned Businesses: Fitness and Wellness 3

n celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month and several national fitness observances in May, we present the third edition of our Bruin-owned series showcasing businesses that strengthen, heal and nourish the mind, body and spirit. Be sure to scroll to the bottom to explore previous fitness and wellness Bruin business listings.

Essential Physical Therapy and Wellness

Owner: Mita Patel ’99

Phone: 424-209-7884

Location: 2001 S. Barrington Ave., Suite 119, Los Angeles, CA 90025

Email: info@essentialptwellness.com

Website: essentialptwellness.com

Social: @essentialptwellness_la

About:

Essential Physical Therapy and Wellness envisions a world where people live healthy vibrant lives. Dialogue about pain, injuries and functional limitations will change. People will know they can improve their physical conditions, heal and live life with more ease, regardless of their condition, pain, level of fitness or age. Its mission is to empower our community to be healthier, happier and stronger - to instill and enhance the overall wellness of the individuals in our community.

Review:

“Mita worked wonders for me. I came to her with pain in my left knee. My orthopedist said it could be an old injury, so we did an MRI. He saw scar tissue and suggested I see a therapist. Mita showed me how my muscles were tight and taught me to watch my IT band. She also showed me how my balance was off. She corrected it in just a few sessions and asked me to stretch post-workouts. And here I was stretching before... She is the perfect blend of educator and therapist.” - Anil P.

Core Conditioning

Co-Owners: Allyson Cabot ’88 and Gabrielle Shrier ʼ91

Phone: 818-907-0008 (Studio City) ǀ 818-333-7281 (Burbank)

Locations: 12930 Ventura Blvd., Suite 226A, Studio City, CA 91604

2104 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506

Email: info@coreconditioningpt.com

Website: coreconditioningpt.com

Social: @_core_conditioning_

About:

Core Conditioning is a premier rehabilitation, fitness and wellness center. What makes Core Conditioning different from conventional physical therapy clinics is that we integrate the worlds of medical science, whole body fitness and lifetime wellness. Our staff of passionate professionals brings diverse skills and backgrounds, including sports medicine, orthopedics, women’s health, pediatrics, neurological rehabilitation, osteopathic techniques and dance medicine. We are a team of highly trained physical therapists with only one goal: to strengthen your body and condition your life.

Review:

"THIS is how physical therapy should be done! The entire staff, from the front desk to the PT aides, to the trainers, Pilates instructors, and of course, the physical therapists are incredibly friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. They use evidence-based methods combined with innovative techniques to provide a holistic service. The owners, Ally and Gabrielle, are extraordinary PTs that will check in and follow up with you to make sure you're improving and to adjust their treatments as you progress with your injury. I personally had a neck/shoulder that immediately started feeling better after the first session. This is very much a hands-on clinic, unlike many PTs that sit you in a corner to do exercises alone and then come back to check on you." – Conrad S.

Kenneally Acupuncture & Healing Resource Center

Owner: Kathleen Kenneally ’88

Phone: 661-252-4100

Location: 23542 Lyons Ave., Suite 202, Newhall, CA 91321

Email: acudoctr@sbcglobal.net

Website: kenneallyacupuncture.com

Social: @kenneallyacupuncture

About:

Kenneally Acupuncture is a place of transformation, healing and hope. Here, people are met where they are; we nurture and support our patients on their personal paths of healing and expansion. We embrace our patients with the boundless joy that comes with serving people we love with medicine we love to share. With hearts fully open, we compassionately hold a vision of healing for all who seek it. It is our honor to be part of your journey to wellness.

Review:

“I travel 2 hours for my appointments to see Kathleen - that’s how good she is as an acupuncturist. Kathleen also has a great awareness about her clients and has helped me in numerous positive ways.” - Deanie Z.

4 Sight Academy

Owner: Sean Panado ’20

Phone: 619-800-8382

Location: 7420 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Suite 109, San Diego, CA 92111

Email: 4sightacademy@gmail.com

Website: foursightacademy.com

Social: @4sightAcademy

About:

4sight Academy is where everyone is an athlete. Our state-of-the-art facility offers world-class equipment, training and community to empower your performance and limitless lifestyle. The 4sight Family consists of athletes of different ages, sports and professions. How they impact their communities, teams and organizations differ, but they share the unifying traits of unbreakable integrity, confidence in their self-worth and the ability to uplift others.

Review:

“There is nobody I could recommend more highly in the athletic trainer space than Sean Panado. He takes immense pride in his work, which is evident in the spotless facility and level of detail he puts into making sure each athlete's regimen will ensure their success. Anyone looking to elevate their training and performance is sure to find an incredible coach, mentor and lifelong friend in Sean.” - Jacob Y.

Mission Oaks Counseling & Wellness Center

Owner: Michelle Wonders ’88

Phone: 805-419-0449

Location: 1100 Flynn Road, Suite 201, Camarillo, CA 93012

Email: contact@mocwc.com

Website: mocwc.com

Social: @mocwc

About:

Mission Oaks is an organization for healing that provides the tools for revitalization of the mind, body and spirit. Our treatment philosophy considers all layers of a person to ensure overall wellness and vitality: the psychological, the physical, the spiritual, the social and the intellectual. MOCWC is staffed by professional and licensed practitioners who utilize healing modalities that support a nurturing environment for adults, adolescents, children, couples and families.

Review:

“MOCW is an asset to our community. I came to the center with my youngest child who was dealing with anxiety. Working with Ann, we were able to do some exercises that helped resolve it and continue to address it through the home program. I also love the meditation programs and the variety of classes they offer outside of the counseling programs! I highly recommend the center!" - Maggie R.

Aviara Acupuncture & Integrative Health

Co-Founder: Nenita McElroy ’93

Phone: 760-814-8196

Location: 6120 Paseo Del Norte, Suite L-1, Carlsbad, CA 92011

Website: aviaraacupuncture.com

Social: @aviaraacupuncture

About:

Aviara Acupuncture & Integrative Health delivers quality, compassionate and superior patient care using a time-tested, holistic healing system. You benefit from receiving a customized treatment plan based on your specific health needs in a caring and professional setting. In addition to acupuncture, we implement herbal therapy and other East Asian modalities such as Tui na therapeutic massage, nutrition and lifestyle recommendations.

Review:

“I am so happy I found Nenita. I came to her after years of unresolved symptoms with insatiable hunger. My doctors were unable to treat me successfully, which led me to go to Nenita with a list of strange symptoms that most doctors dismissed as "stress-related." She confidently knew that my condition was treatable, which gave me hope. Her warm and caring manner made me look forward to returning each week. I swear, I've never felt so relaxed! After a handful of sessions, I feel awesome. Just make an appointment. You will not regret it!” - Alisha B.

Weitz Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition

Owner: Dr. Ben Weitz ’83

Phone: 310-395-3111

Location: 1448 15th St., Suite 201, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Email: patients.weitzchiro@gmail.com

Website: drweitz.com

Social: @weitzchiro

About:

Quality chiropractic care for back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sports injuries, elbow pain, wrist pain, hip pain, knee pain, ankle pain, foot pain, whiplash, headache, migraine, soft tissue injuries, muscle injuries and joint injuries. Dr. Weitz has over 27 years of experience as a sports chiropractor, rehabilitation expert and functional medicine nutritionist.

Review:

“Dr. Weitz has been my chiropractor for about three years and I'd highly recommend him! I began working with Dr. Weitz due to my lower back pain. Over the years, he has helped me resolve several issues with his precise diagnoses and adjustments. I feel a surge of energy and a sense of well-being after each session. My entire body feels connected and even my mind is sharper. The atmosphere in the office is peaceful and inviting. His staff is very personable and caring. Dr. Weitz is an excellent chiropractor who also has a great podcast, "Rational Wellness," addressing a variety of topics with top experts in each field.” - Jana H.

Village Health Foundation

CEO/Founder: Jewel Thais-Williams ʼ71

Phone: 323-733-0471

Location: 4077 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90019

Email: villagehealthfdn@aol.com

Website: villagehealthfoundation.org

Social: @villagehealthfdn

About:

Our main mission is to provide affordable, accessible and effective professional services in complementary medicine to the community. We originally began as a natural healthcare clinic offering nontoxic treatments for people with HIV/AIDS. Our activities have expanded to include treatments for a wide range of diseases. We treat clients who are at risk for, or who have already developed diabetes, hypertension, high blood pressure, arthritis, heart disease, chronic diseases and have any variety of pain issues.

Review:

“This place is a 'jewel' in the community (no pun intended.) I was treated by Jewel who is thoughtful, patient, warm and kind... not to mention extremely knowledgeable and experienced. If you are interested in beginning or maintaining a holistic health and wellness regime while supporting an amazing community resource without breaking your pockets, the Village Health Foundation is your place!” - Lena H.

The Lunch MOB

Co-Owner: Jonathan Bonuan ’94

Phone: 949-415-9529

Location: 23552 Commerce Center Drive, Suite D, Laguna Hills, CA 92653

Email: thelunchmob.co/contact

Website: thelunchmob.co

Social: @thelunchmob

About:

It was 2014 when new dad Jonathan started preparing lunches for his then rambunctious toddlers, Jonah and Liam, to take to daycare. At first, he was happy-go-lucky, but then happy-go-lucky became a boring routine after noticing he was packing the same three to five "vanilla" meals each week. More importantly, he became increasingly concerned about his boys' nutritional needs, leading him to explore a variety of tastier and more health-conscious meals.

Review:

“Thank you, Lunch Mob, for the high quality, interestingly conceived lunches you provide to schools. Our child has not only been enjoying your meals but has also had the opportunity to develop a more adventurous palate due to being less resistant to trying new foods at school than at home. We appreciate the daily variety of options to choose from, the different portion sizes that you make available, the nutritional value of the food and the reasonable cost. Keep up the good work!” - Dan R.

Perfect Body Incorporated

Owner: Shawn Phillips ’98

Phone: 310-720-8125

Location: 11567 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025

Email: holisticbodytrainer@gmail.com

Website: shawnphillipstraining.com

Social: @shawnphillipstraining

About:

As a personal trainer in the Los Angeles area, I believe that in order to reach your highest achievement in life you must optimize your body so that this optimal state enhances your ability to express all of your gifts, talents, skills, abilities and attributes. Health and wellness is the foundation and platform of all expression and action in life. With an optimized body, you will begin to create and design the life that you want! By using an integrative approach to health, holistic fitness allows you to focus on various aspects of health which can optimize hormonal and neurotransmitter function, allowing you to have more energy, think more clearly, be assertive and look great.

Review:

“Wow! After working with many trainers over the years, Shawn is absolutely unique and the best. He takes a holistic approach to training, not just focusing on pumping iron or cardio till you drop. A tailored nutrition plan and a balanced life are key ingredients. After 4 weeks with Shawn, I've lost 7 pounds and 2 inches in my waist! Amazingly, with less pain and body aches than in my past training experiences. His approach works, I'm lucky to be working with him!” - Robin H.

Balance Chiropractic

Owner: Amy Yang ’00

Phone: 626-357-2222

Location: 120 W. Olive Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016

Email: info@bal-chiropractic.com

Website: bal-chiropractic.com

Social: @bal.chiropractic

About:

At Balance Chiropractic, we are committed to relieving our patients' body pain and improving their overall health and well-being using the principles of chiropractic care. We are results-oriented professionals who provide a step-by-step treatment program to help our patients achieve their goals, whether they are to alleviate pain, optimize mobility and comfort, improve posture, speed up recovery time or increase performance in their daily lives.

Review:

“This place is great! Dr. Amy Yang is kind, courteous and an amazing doctor. My lawyer sent me here after my car accident in February. My neck was feeling sore and painful, but she was able to relieve my pain and discomfort. If you are looking for an awesome chiropractor, look no further. She is a rock star! Thank you very much for such great care.” - Yasmin C.

Imbody Wellness

Founder: Isabella Bablumian ’04

Phone: +55-21-99832-1907

Location: Online

Email: hello@imbodywellness.com

Website: imbodywellness.com

Social: @imbodywellness

About:

Isabella’s passion is helping people find their unique path to vitality and pleasurable wellness. She has a passion for living with the Sensefulness Method for activating body wisdom, self-awareness and embodiment. This unique interdisciplinary approach was born in Brazil, inspired by the Afro-Brazilian traditions that celebrate life on earth as the culmination of our spiritual embodiment, based on the latest research in behavioral change, nutrition and fitness, positive psychology, and neurolinguistic programming. It infuses sexual energy activation practices and other healing modalities from the ancient Taoism.

Review:

“I would like to thank Imbody for the workshops and talks that opened my eyes to new ways of being, bringing quality of life, knowledge and the desire to continue improving. The little droplets of wisdom I learned from the Institute brought big changes to my inner world and my day-to-day. Despite the simple approach of workshops and talks, the experiences I had with Imbody were transformative and memorable, burning wellness directly into my soul's blueprint. As a result, I continue discovering the best version for myself, while the benefits I learned are perpetuated in me and my future generation. My eternal gratitude to Bella.” - Isabella R.

9Round Fitness

Owner: Chris Borgia ’10

Phone: 310-986-3910

Location: 1109 Aviation Blvd., Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Website: 9round.com

Social: @9round_hermosabeach_aviation

About:

Get fit and have fun with 9Round Kickboxing Fitness, the premier kickboxing fitness studio in Hermosa Beach. The 30-minute, circuit-style workouts are the perfect solution for busy schedules, with no class times and a new session starting every three minutes.

Review:

“I have been going to 9Round for about three months now and I have never felt better. Chris and Barbara are amazing! They inspire me every time I come to work out harder. In just three months, I have seen results - I am healthier, stronger and happier. I had a hard time finding a safe gym during the COVID pandemic until I found 9Round in Hermosa. I love that you can show up whenever to start your workout and you really get a one-on-one training experience. The workouts also change every day so you never get bored. So happy to be a member of this gym.” - Brenda L.

Artemis Yoga

Co-Founder: Elizabeth Padula, MBA ’99

Phone: 617-393-3590

Location: 639 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472

Email: info@artemisyoga.com

Website: artemisyoga.com

Social: @artemisyoga

About:

Based in Watertown, Massachusetts, Artemis Yoga is an independent yoga studio offering more than 30 classes weekly in studio or online. The schedule is flexible for studio or home practice. Artemis Yoga is known for its welcoming community where anyone can learn and practice yoga to strengthen the body and relax the mind.

Review:

“Can I do 10 stars? I've been practicing Iyengar yoga for nearly 30 years, and Artemis is simply superb, a warm and welcoming studio and a true community. The space is bright and spotless. The teachers are top-flight, attentive and careful, modifying poses to suit individual abilities. The range of classes and educational sessions are impressive. Oh, and they have lovely front-of-house staff plus easy parking. Hats off to owner Liz Padula for creating and nurturing this gem of a yoga studio!” - Cynthia B.

Sculpt Fitness

Owner: David Minishian ’15

Phone: 562-470-6466

Location: 3255 E. South St. Suite K202, Long Beach, CA 90805

Email: longbeach.sculptfitness@gmail.com

Website: sculptfitnessla.com

Social: @sculptfitnessla

About:

We help clients create sustainable lifestyles to build the body they want. We don't push supplements or promote restrictive diets. We believe in finding a flexible approach to your health and fitness. Our training programs include our small group boot camp, semi-private training and personal training. Our coaches specialize in weight management and fat loss, muscle building and strength training, aerobic conditioning, sports performance, mobility and sustainable nutrition coaching. We also provide meal prep and food delivery services with our private chef to make nutrition simple and convenient.

Review:

“I have been part of the Sculpt Fitness family for over 5 years, I have contemplated going elsewhere only to realize Sculpt is my forever home. Sculpt is the only place I have ever felt comfortable. The coaches at Sculpt believe in their clients and will go over and beyond to provide the best experience possible. The atmosphere is clean, safe and definitely worth checking out” - Liz. V.

LA Sports Acupuncture

Founder: Jorga Houy ’93

Phone: 323-739-4333

Location: 5619 N. Figueroa St., Unit 221, Los Angeles, CA 90042

Email: jorga@lasportsacupuncture.com

Website: lasportsacupuncture.com

Social: @lasportsacupuncture

About:

At LA Sports Acupuncture, we specialize in sports medicine: the prevention and treatment of injuries and pain. Acute traumatic injuries require rapid response and are usually resolved rather quickly; old chronic injuries usually take longer to treat. Combining traditional knowledge of acupuncture, acupressure and herbal medicine with orthopedics and sports medicine. Chinese medicine regards the highest class of medicine to be prevention and the pursuit of longevity. By adopting many of the lifestyle choices offered by the philosophy of Chinese medicine, we can live long and healthy lives.

Review:

“It's truly amazing how a single session can address issues you've been grappling with for years. Over the past 15 years, I consistently experienced hip clicking and tight hip flexors on my right side, particularly during exercise. I used to attribute this to my body's natural asymmetry, believing I had to just deal with it. I tried various remedies such as stretches and trigger point balls, but they only offered minimal relief. Then, about five years ago, I began to develop lower back pain on the right side, and I soon realized the connection between my right hip clicking and this discomfort. Following just one session with Jorga, the hip clicking disappeared, and I immediately noticed an improvement in my core strength, as I could perform leg lifts without any clicking. Even my back pain seems to have improved significantly. I can't help but regret not seeing Jorga sooner.” - Sylvia S.

NutriFit

Founder: Jackie Keller, Ext. Cert. ’88

Phone: 310-473-2989

Location: 11692 Gateway Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064

Email: info@nutrifitonline.com

Website: nutrifitonline.com

Social: @nutrifitonline

About:

NutriFit specializes in crafting fresh, personalized meal plans that are delivered to your doorstep. We also offer full-service nutritional support, biometric testing, wellness coaching and health-related products. Since 1987 we have been providing custom solutions that help our clients achieve optimal health and well-being. It’s our mission to help our clients live longer and healthier lives.

Review:

“I can't recommend Nutrifit enough. From day one my experience has been amazing. I met with Jackie to discuss my weight loss needs due to high blood pressure and pre-diabetes concerns. She put me on a plan that not only helped me lose the weight, but got me off all the medication I was on. In addition to health benefits, she opened my eyes to foods I had never had before. The food is absolutely amazing! I look forward to every delivery to see what 'goodies' I have for the day.” – Tara M.

Wonderwell Creative

Founder and CEO: Kate Bone ’00

Location: Online

Email: hello@wonderwellcreative.com

Website: wonderwellcreative.com

Social: @wonderwell.creative

About:

Creativity is your nature. Everyone and everything is creative, and you were born to create. Here at Wonderwell, we take a holistic and nature-based approach to the creative process. We tend to our projects as if we were tending to a garden. Through our educational programs, community circles and private mentorship, we help creators ground into your body, clarify your vision and develop nourishing structures to bring your dreams into reality. The best part? You don't have to do it alone. We're cultivating a global creative community of multi-passionate creatives to encourage and inspire you every step of the way.

Review:

"This is a space I have been looking for my whole life. The space you've created is conscious, buoyant and extremely loving. I am beyond grateful to share space and learn from you and the beautiful community that has formed." – Hannah B.

Happy Camper Play Therapy

Owner and Founder: Renee Holdo ’86

Phone: 404-731-8621

Location: 707 Whitlock Ave., Building D-34, Marietta, GA 30064

Email: happycamperplaytherapy@gmail.com

Website: happycamperplaytherapy.com

About:

At Happy Camper Play Therapy and Expressive Arts, we specialize in individual, and family play therapy, as well as child-centered play therapy and adolescent counseling. Additionally, we offer group work, workshops and seminars. Our clinicians are available to present on a variety of topics. Throughout the therapeutic process, the client is encouraged to take an active role in his or her treatment with the support of the therapist. Our goal is the client's goal. We utilize a variety of techniques to assist the client in achieving greater self-awareness, more positive relationships while increasing their capacity to experience and express their feelings. Clients of all ages, couples and families can reconnect with their inner values and sense of self-worth enabling them to find their way to move forward. When you play more, you feel better.

LushNature Wellness

Founder: James Aliberti ’87

Phone: 415-999-1554

Location: San Francisco Bay Area

Email: jamesalushnature@gmail.com

Website: golushnature.com

About:

LushNature Wellness offers guided forays, bird walks and outdoor team-building exercises to stave off chronic illness and isolation, and improve employee satisfaction and retention, benefitting present and future generations. With deep connections to the transformative properties of nature and the inhabitants of the wilds of the San Francisco Bay Area, sustainably promoting constructive partnerships with local organizations and beyond, we foster change by empowering thousands of participants to pursue interests in science, education and other positive quality of life enhancements.

Review:

"After my LushNature experience, I started looking at my challenges in the lab from more of what you'd call 'a bugs eye-view,' and it helped my project progress profusely. So many of the things the naturalist said super-resonated with me." - Kara P.

***

To submit a Bruin-owned business for future consideration, please send a note to connectfeedback@alumni.ucla.edu.

All Bruin-Owned Business Articles

Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship Gala 2024

CLA Bruins come together during Black History Month to strengthen bonds and honor the trailblazers and risk takers who have paved the way for future generations. The annual Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship Gala, hosted by the UCLA Black Alumni Association (UBAA), is named in honor of a leader who supported countless students to overcome barriers to a college education. Winston C. Doby ’63, M.A. ’72, Ed.D. ’74, built a lasting legacy at UCLA through his unwavering commitment to equity and access.

Born during World War II, Doby excelled at UCLA as a scholar-athlete, and went on to an impactful four-decade career at the University. As UCLA vice chancellor for student affairs, he chaired high-level task forces to revamp admissions, financial aid and student support. He found ways to involve others in community service and established the Academic Advancement Program (AAP), paving the way for thousands of students to achieve success.

UBAA founded the Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship Fund in response to the passage of California’s Proposition 209, which had led to a sharp decline in the number of African American students admitted to and enrolling in UCLA. Since then, UBAA has awarded more than $4 million in scholarships to African American students.

This year’s gala, “Celebrate the Power to Inspire,” will pay tribute to Bruin alumni, community members and friends who have achieved historic firsts. The event will take place on March 2, at the Omni Hotel in Los Angeles, and will be an evening of dinner and dancing with a special program. It promises to be a memorable occasion honoring the legacy of Winston C. Doby and celebrating Bruins. Purchase tickets and sponsorships through the UBAA website.

UBAA is committed to empowering UCLA’s Black alumni, faculty and staff and building relationships that will expand educational opportunities for Black students. Bobby Grace ’84, chair of the UCLA Black Alumni Association Board of Directors, is excited to celebrate together with Bruins. He says, “2024 marks the first time that UBAA has been able to hold the Doby Legacy Scholarship Gala in person since 2018. The gala gives UBAA the opportunity to recognize alumni as well as campus and community leaders who are making an impact at UCLA and the world.”

HONOREES

D’Artagnan Scorza ʼ07 Ph.D ʼ13

A community leader and Navy veteran, D’Artagnan Scorza will receive the Tom Bradley Alumnus of the Year Award for his work on behalf of his community. The award is named for the former Los Angeles mayor who paved the way for increased diversity in leadership roles. As the first executive director of Racial Equity for Los Angeles County, Scorza was instrumental in the process to return Bruce’s Beach to the original Black owners. He previously served as the UCLA Alumni Association president and was the founder of the Social Justice Learning Institute, a nonprofit organization that champions community health and educational equity.

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block

UBAA will honor retiring UCLA Chancellor Gene Block with the Chairman’s Award for his leadership and steadfast dedication to UCLA and the broader community. UCLA's chancellor since 2007, Block has been a strong advocate for accessible public higher education. Under his leadership, UCLA has elevated its national and international profile, rose to become the No. 1 public university in the country and excelled in enrolling students from diverse backgrounds. With his expertise in neuroscience, Block’s research focuses on aging in the nervous system. Chancellor Block announced his decision to step down in 2024 after 17 years of service.

Dr. Jessie Sherrod, M.P.H. ʼ80

A physician and public health advocate, Dr. Jessie Sherrod will receive the UBAA Jackie Robinson Trailblazer Award, named for the UCLA athlete who became a champion of civil rights. Dr. Sherrod began her advocacy journey in the eighth grade, when she and SNCC members integrated a cafe in Hollandale, Mississippi. As the first Tougaloo College graduate to attend Harvard Medical School, Dr. Sherrod has been a dedicated public health advocate and mentor. She holds the distinction of being the founding member of the Association of Black Women Physicians.

Youlonda Copeland-Morgan

Youlonda Copeland-Morgan is a national leader in the field of college admissions. As the former vice provost for enrollment management at UCLA, she held an unwavering dedication to broadening access to a UCLA education. Her steadfast commitment to equity and excellence made a lasting impact on increasing access to a world-class education. UBAA is honoring Copeland-Morgan with the President’s Award.

Benny Blaydes ʼ78

Benny Blaydes will be the recipient of the Arthur Ashe Community Service Award for his commitment to mentoring and guiding generations of students. The award is named for the UCLA tennis player remembered for his efforts to promote civil rights and social justice. As an academic counselor for Santa Monica College and a longtime member of the UBAA Board of Directors, Blaydes has made a positive and significant impact through the Benny C. Blaydes UBAA Alumni Centennial Scholars Fund, which supports scholarships to undergraduate transfer students through the UCLA Alumni Scholarships Program in partnership with UBAA.

UCLA Afro Latin X Connection

The student-run Afro-Latinx Connection de UCLA will receive the Maddie Norman Award for their effort to build unity on campus, named for the woman who taught the first African American studies course in UCLA's history. Afro-Latinx Connection was founded in 2018 to bridge the gap between communities, and hosts regular events to share their experience and exemplify the pillars of community, culture and political education. Club president, Isaiah Clark exp. ʼ24 will accept the award on their behalf. UCLA students are the change agents of tomorrow, blazing a path into the future.

Chase Griffin ’21, M.Ed. ’23

Chase Griffin will receive the UBAA Florence Griffith Joyner award for his leadership and commitment to helping others. The award is named in honor of the UCLA athlete and fastest woman ever recorded. The UCLA quarterback is not only an athlete, but a scholar, entrepreneur and philanthropist. A two-time national Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Male Athlete of the Year award-winner, he has expanded its use as a platform to raise awareness for social justice issues. He launched the Chase Griffin Foundation to help combat food insecurity, especially among young people. Incorporating his jersey number into his signature hashtag, "BE11EVE," he is a role model on and off the field.

Monique Matthews ’92, M.A. ’96, M.F.A. ’01

Monique N. Matthews, a filmmaker who is dedicated to creating narratives that contribute to greater diversity in Hollywood, will receive UBAA’s Beverly Robinson Award, named for the renowned champion of multiculturalism. Matthews received a NAACP Image Award nomination for outstanding feature writing for the film, “A Holiday in Harlem,” which she wrote for the Hallmark Channel. She directed and co-wrote the documentary film "Birthing Justice," looking into the high mortality rates among Black mothers.

Kamilah Moore ʼ14

Kamilah Moore is this year’s recipient of the Bruin Spirit Award. As an attorney and chairperson of the California Reparations Task Force, she is committed to rectifying historical injustices. As a law student, Moore contributed to the development of human rights reports focused on domestic and international human rights issues. She has carried the spirit of social justice into her law practice, where she shines a light on these issues.

UBAA is excited to bring the community together to celebrate leaders and raise support for future Bruins. Bobby Grace says, “All of our honorees have demonstrated their great ability to inspire the world around them. We are grateful to be able to celebrate the power of their inspiration.”

Winston C. Doby Legacy Scholarship Gala

March 2, 2024

Omni Hotel Downtown Los Angeles

6 p.m. Reception, 7 p.m. Dinner and Gala Program

Purchase Tickets

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