Welcome to the 2024-2025 Academic Year October 8, 2024
Dear Bruins:
Welcome to the start of the 2024–25 academic year at UCLA! As your vice chancellor for student affairs and a proud member of this vibrant Bruin community, it is an honor to partner with you in making this the best year yet for all Bruins. Whether you are stepping onto campus for the first time or returning after a well-earned break, I want to extend my warmest welcome to you.
The start of a new academic year always brings with it a time of excitement, anticipation and new beginnings. You are joining a diverse and dynamic campus where academic excellence is paired with an unwavering commitment to the holistic development of every student. At UCLA, your growth extends beyond the classroom — through meaningful involvement in campus life, embracing diverse perspectives and engaging in dialogues that strengthen our understanding of one another. True Bruin Welcome is UCLA’s invitation to get involved, and I encourage you to participate as much as you can in these amazing activities.
Student Affairs plays a vital role in shaping the Bruin experience. Consisting of over 25 dedicated departments, we are unified in our goal to provide an exceptional student experience for every undergraduate, graduate and professional UCLA student. Whether through residence life, student employment, academic support, health and well-being services or student leadership programs, we aim to create an environment where students can thrive personally, academically and socially.
Our belief in the continuous nature of student learning, which extends far beyond the traditional classroom, shapes every program and initiative within Student Affairs. We offer diverse opportunities for leadership and engagement, designed to foster skill development, ignite passions and help students discover a profound sense of belonging within our vibrant campus community. As part of our commitment to holistic student development, the Be Well Bruin website lists the wide range of health and wellness resources available on campus. For general information on how we support students, visit the UCLA Student Affairs website .
As we embark on this journey together, it’s important to acknowledge that we live in challenging times. The current global and national events can impact our emotions, our connections and our sense of belonging. As a Bruin, I want to remind you that this campus is your community — a place where dialogue, empathy and mutual respect are expected from all members of our community.
You recently heard from Interim Chancellor Hunt, as well as many other campus leaders, who have shared our commitment to upholding free speech, respectful dialogue and safety within our Bruin community. Resources such as our Four-Point Plan for a Safer, Stronger UCLA; expectations for Time, Place and Manner; and safety resources can all be found in this campuswide message . These resources can help us navigate complex conversations and build bridges between different perspectives. Whether it’s engaging in dialogue about the upcoming national elections or participating in campus activities, Bruins are encouraged to use their voices responsibly and constructively. Your voice is powerful, and your active participation is vital to cultivating a campus culture that embraces inclusion, respect and empowerment.
I look forward to being your partner in making this a year of growth, connection and positive impact.
Sincerely,
Monroe Gorden Jr.
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs