UCLA Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications Mary Osako has been named a Leader of the Year by Ragan Communications, whose 2025 Zenith Awards, announced Nov. 12, honored outstanding achievements in the field of professional communications.
Osako, who has served as vice chancellor since September 2019, was recognized for her accomplishments in strengthening UCLA’s communications functions and enhancing the university’s brand and reputation over the past year — a testament to her exemplary work and that of her team. The award highlighted communications campaigns and initiatives centered on the Los Angeles wildfires, the announcement of new chancellor Julio Frenk, building bridges with the local community and UCLA’s research enterprise, among others.
In addition, Chancellor Frenk’s “We Are One UCLA,” a social media video series focused on keeping the UCLA community connected during the wildfires, was recognized, earning an honorable mention in the video category.
