COVER STORY

The Science of Connection
Breaking new ground in understanding human bonds is the mission of a diverse cadre of UCLA researchers.

WAYNE LEWIS

PLUS:

Talking It Out

At a time when everyone seems to be shouting and no one seems to be listening, UCLA’s Campus Community Conversations are building bridges across differences, one chat at a time.

MICHAEL EMERSON DIRDA

How to Bring Heart Into Tech
Dino Di Carlo is on a mission to build a more humane connection between people and the technology they use.

BROOKE PORTER KATZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM COMEN

 

FEATURES

A Walk Around the Park
The UCLA Research Park is two years away from opening its doors. But it’s already buzzing with energy and ideas.
JOHN HARLOW AND DAN GORDON ’85

_______

Is a College Education Still Worth It?

It’s the question almost every parent in America is asking these days. The answer is: Yes. Think that’s just us tooting our own horn? Look at the data. Because the case for higher education is a case for humanity.
JONATHAN RIGGS | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ERIK CARTER

PLUS:

Winning the Argument
6 tips on how to push back — nicely — on those who say college isn’t worth it.
JONATHAN RIGGS | ILLUSTRATION BY ERIK CARTER

 

SPECIAL SECTION: Winter Arts

Once Upon a Time … in Westwood
It’s awards season! And over the last 100 years, UCLA has set the scene for hundreds of Hollywood movies, with Bruins directing, dressing and designing for films that have entertained and influenced generations. Want to stream something with a touch of blue and gold? Look no further.
JOHN HARLOW

PLUS:
Move Over, Hollywood Boulevard
Dedicated almost 50 years ago, the Westwood Walk of Fame was created to pay sidewalk homage to Oscars Best Picture winners.
CHRIS CONIGLIO
_______

Ryan’s Hope
A year into her tenure as the steward of one of the cultural jewels of the university, the director of the Hammer Museum at UCLA is bringing to her role a finely tuned global perspective, unbridled optimism and lots of can-do spirit.
SALEEM RESHAMWALA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA SAMPLE
_______


   WATCH:   
The Magic of the Geffen Playhouse
The innovative theater space celebrates its third decade in Westwood — and its unique partnership with UCLA.
VIDEOGRAPHY BY ADAM AMENGUAL | INTERVIEWS BY JOHN HARLOW

 

BRUINOLOGY

The Website Where Every Vote Counts
In an era of shadowy politics, UCLA professor Jeff Lewis is shining a light on how Congress actually votes.

BLAIR R. FISCHER

_______

That Road to the Final Four
A star guard on the history-making 2025 women’s basketball team reflects on an incredible season — and why the journey to championship glory is just beginning. 

GABRIELA JAQUEZ

_______

Carol Burnett Is So Glad We Had That Time Together 
The iconic comedian, who just endowed a scholarship and donated a treasure trove of awards to UCLA, talks about how Westwood became the spot where her rise to stardom began.

FIONA RUANE
_______

The UCLA Marching Band Turns 100 
At a hundred years and counting, UCLA’s world-famous marching band keeps drumming up Bruin pride.

LUCY BERBEO ’06
_______

A New Meaning of 'Liquid Capital'
A UCLA engineering professor’s scientific breakthrough is changing the field of bioelectronics.

JESSE KLEIN
_______

The Shoup Shoup Song
Legendary UCLA professor Donald Shoup left a brilliant, if odd, legacy: He taught America how to park.

MICHAEL MANVILLE | ILLUSTRATION BY MICKEY PARASKEVAS

 

WE ARE ONE UCLA

The Power of Connection 

CHANCELLOR JULIO FRENK