2023-24
I’m delighted to present our University of California Trust’s FY2023-24 Impact Report. In 1999, “California House,” as it was known at the time, was born out of a partnership between the University of California’s Office of the President and the now defunct California Trade and Commerce Agency (CTCA). Its mission was to promote alumni relations, fundraising, study abroad and California trade and investment. Initially conceptualized by our very own Trustee Brad Barber as an overseas alumni and development office to serve all UC campuses, it has grown, shrunk, grown again and pivoted throughout the years. Today we provide support to UC campuses to enrich the lives of alumni living in the UK and Europe, to enhance the study abroad experience, to facilitate giving back and to promote knowledge exchange.
This past year more than 800 alumni, staff, students and guests participated in activities across Europe in fourteen cities. It was our highest engagement figure to date thanks to our outreach efforts in continental Europe, particularly in Madrid and Barcelona, and the great work of our vitally important Trust Campus Partners UCLA, UC San Diego and UC San Francisco. We invite all campuses to consider becoming full UC Trust Campus Partners.
It was also a year in which several campuses increased their engagement with alumni thanks to the UC Trust. For example, at the 7th Annual Gala held in April 2024 at the impressive Drapers’ Hall venue, four campuses upped their game and bought an entire table. Thank you to UC Santa Cruz, UC San Diego, UCLA and UC Irvine for your campus involvement in making the gala the biggest and the best to date. Next year we would love to see more campuses with dedicated tables. Save the date — the next gala will take place Saturday, May 10, 2025.
This year we also expanded our Board of Trustees, adding Megan Kissinger (Assistant Vice Chancellor, Development
at UCLA College of Letters and Science) and Jodi Anderson, a double alumna of UC Santa Barbara and UCLA, former UC Student Regent, and former UC Trust staff member. In FY 2024-25, both will work alongside all our Trustees in one of two task forces, one dedicated to strengthening the Board and the other to developing relevant policies to accompany the new Articles of Association that are currently being approved by the UK Charity Commission and Companies House.
From strength to strength, we look forward to the next 25 years of deepening ties between Europe and the UK to the University of California system for the benefit of all our UC campuses, alumni, students, donors and faculty. As always, we value your input and questions. Should you wish to reach me or UC Trust staff, please email alumni@californiahouse.org.uk.
We are pleased to share the FY2023-24 Impact Report for the University of California Trust with you. It was a record-breaking year in terms of engagement with both volunteers and with the campuses. This has been possible due to the hard work of our UC Trust team, support from our Board of Trustees, the UC Alumni UK Board, and our closer connections with campuses. Thank you everyone for your help.
This year the UC Trust took bolder steps into Europe and arrange d both student and alumni engagement activities in Barcelona and Madrid. Working with the central Education Abroad Program office we celebrated the 50th anniversary of education abroad in Barcelona followed by a standing room only event at a local restaurant. Together we also hosted a mixer in Madrid. Events in both cities proved so successful that the Trust hosted further events including professor talks and alumni/ student mixers in both cities throughout the remainder of the year. We also forged closer relationships with higher education institutions in each city.
The UC Trust continued to enhance the student experience by hosting a career panel in London where an archaeology student had the opportunity to speak with an alumna working in this field, and a new student studying data science had the opportunity to speak with an alumnus who already works in the sector.
Building on the importance of global cooperation, the UC Trust’s relationships with other higher education institutions enabled UC students to participate in Imperial College London’s Global Challenge Lab, a virtual business start-up sprint designed to bring entrepreneurial students from around the globe together to work on a common problem. Twenty-eight students from across the UC system participated.
The UC Alumni UK Board was busy throughout FY2023-24 hosting all UC events as well as individual campus-led activities, such as days of service. The Board launched a new affinity club, UC Pride UK, which participated in the London Pride Parade. Three campuses now have new alumni volunteer ambassadors: UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz and UC Merced. For the first time, all undergraduate campuses of the UC system have alumni representatives in London. Lastly, the year ended with elections and a new alumni volunteer leadership team is now in situ.
In all, 100 alumni volunteered their time, energy and expertise to enrich the lives of study abroad students and alumni living in Europe, which resulted in record-breaking participation by all campuses. Harnessing the community’s natural sense of curiosity and generosity, we have built a brighter and a stronger network and continue to develop opportunities for innovation, research, cultural exchange, and business engagement between the UK, Europe and the 10 UC campuses.
Paa-Kerner, Executive Director, University of California Trust
Mission
The UC Trust works with partners, campuses, alumni, study abroad students, and faculty to bring the UC to the UK and Europe.
Purpose
Enrich the lives of alumni living in the UK and Europe. Whether a former undergraduate, graduate, extension, or exchange student, your relationship with the UC system extends beyond your time in California.
Enhance the international experience for UC students. Studying abroad in the UK and Europe is an opportunity to expand one’s horizons academically, professionally, culturally, and personally.
Promote knowledge exchange and enable innovation. The UC Trust strengthens international collaborations in research, knowledge exchange and innovation. We connect UC campuses and faculty with partners in the UK and Europe.
Facilitate giving back. The UC Trust offers a unique opportunity to donate tax effectively and to volunteer for the advancement of the UC system.
Beginning in FY1996-97, as Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement at the University of California Office of the President (UCOP), Brad Barber explored how UCOP could assist campuses with student engagement, fundraising, and alumni relations. He sought to determine whether it would be more cost-effective for UCOP to support international fundraising and alumni affairs rather than having each campus manage its own overseas programs.
His analysis revealed the UK to be a favorable location for this enterprise due to both its legal and financial advantages. For example, the UK’s Gift Aid program provides registered charities the ability to reclaim an extra 25% in tax on donations.
The following year, Brad began discussions with the UC Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) to explore collaboration opportunities that would benefit both international alumni and students, as well as launch fundraising efforts while sharing costs.
At the same time, the California Trade and Commerce Agency (CTCA), renamed the Technology, Trade, and Commerce Agency in 2001, was considering global offices to promote California. This led to discussions about collaboration between the University of California and the state in overseas locations, with London selected as the first site. In 1999, “California House” was established in London as a center for UC and California-related activities, with the UC Trust (UK) serving as the charitable vehicle. The vision was to replicate this model in Hong Kong and Japan.
The UC Trust (UK) became active quickly, launching philanthropic initiatives such as the creation of a fund for EAP students in 2001, the Allen Buch Scholarship in 2002, and the Melanie Woiwode Memorial Fund in 2008. The Trust also facilitated funds from the Charities Aid Foundation, coordinated a $1 million donation to the UCLA Library, and expanded fundraising through partnerships with entities like the National Philanthropic Trust and Transnational Giving Europe.
However, political and economic shifts in 2000, including reduced state revenues, led to the dissolution of the Technology, Trade, and Commerce Agency in 2004, creating financial uncertainty for UC Trust (UK) and halting
“I’m very pleased with how the Trust has developed and how it serves all the campuses and the University. I believe it has great potential to grow and has a bright future over the next 25 years.”
Brad Barber, original Trustee of the UC Trust
plans for further expansion. Despite this, California House continued, relocating several times and strengthening its presence.
The UC Trust (UK) thrived, hosting events like a reception for Laura D’Andrea Tyson (2001-02), a visit by UC President Robert Dynes (2005), and a Distinguished Lecture by UCSF Chancellor and Nobel Laureate Michael Bishop. It also organized the 50th anniversary of UC EAP in 2012 and hosted visits by four UC Chancellors in 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trust pivoted to virtual activities, maintaining engagement through online events. Alumni engagement grew with events such as Berkeleyans in Britain pub nights (2004), gatherings in Paris (2005), the British 10K Charity Run (2007), and the formation of the All UC Alumni Committee (2008). The Alumni Council was established in 2012, and signature events like the Hyde Park Picnic (2013) and a Black Tie Gala (2016) strengthened the UC alumni network.
Supporting students has been a core focus. The Trust facilitated internships, hosted Thanksgiving dinners in Scotland, and organized student send-offs, such as the 2018 event.
Today, the UC Trust continues to support alumni activities and fundraising for campuses. Each undergraduate campus now has a volunteer ambassador, and the Trust receives additional support from UCLA, UC San Diego, and UC San Francisco. Its impact has extended beyond the UK, with plans to deepen support for UC campuses and alumni initiatives across Europe.
California House opens in London
First large-scale event honoring Laura D’Andrea Tyson of Berkeley Haas 2001 9/11 Attacks
First all UC Pub Night First Paris alumni event organized by the UC Trust
Bradley Barber appointed Trustee 2005 David Helson appointed Trustee
Matthew Daines appointed Director of Programming & External Relations
2008
Geoff O’Neill appointed Trustee; Matthew Daines appointed Director of Development for UCLA 2008 UCLA joins the UC Trust as a Campus Partner First visit to London by Chancellor Block All UC Alumni Chapter established in London UC Trust coordinates $1 million gift for the UCLA Library
Beginning of the Great Recession and Global Financial Crisis 2000
George W Bush elected President of the USA
Barack Obama elected President of the USA
2012
UCLA receive $10m donation from Arcadia Trust
2016 UCOP, UCLA and UCEAP open UC Trust and EAP joint-office
First UC Alumni UK Gala
2015 50th Anniversary Celebration of UCEAP in the UK 50th Anniversary of UCEAP
2015
2020
UCSD joins the UC Trust as a Campus Partner
2019 Four UC Chancellors visit the UK
2018
UCLA Europe Campaign reaches $45m goal
Deborah Miller & Heather Kopeck appointed as Trustees
2012
Queen Elizabeth II of the UK celebrates her Diamond Jubilee
2016 The UK votes to leave the European Union
2023
UCSC hosts reception at Tate Britain with UCSC Chancellor Larive
2021 UCSF receives $10m donation
UC Trust begins hosting online activities
UCSF joins the UC Trust as a Campus Partner
2020
Deborah Miller succeeds Geoff O’Neill as Chair of Trustees
2020 Covid-19 declared a pandemic and worldwide lockdowns begin
2023
2023
2024
UC Alumni UK has representatives from all nine undergraduate UC campuses for the first time
Greta Paa-Kerner succeeds Matthew Daines as Executive Director
King Charles III is coronated as monarch of the United Kingdom
2024
2024 Jodi Anderson & Megan Kissinger appointed as Trustees
103 UC athletes compete in the Paris Olympics
Donald Trump elected President of the USA
Joe Biden elected President of the USA
Donald Trump re-elected President of the USA
Over the 2023-24 fiscal year, the University of California Trust has expanded its program to engage more alumni, students, faculty and staff from the University of California system. Through a diverse program of events, we offer alumni, students, and faculty the opportunity to connect both professionally and socially, while continuing UC’s academic legacy and fostering lifelong learning for our community abroad.
Globally, there are more than 2 million alumni from the University of California, with more than 100,000 across the European continent. Through our engagement activities, we have cultivated dedicated UC volunteers with whom we work closely in setting up affinity groups, workshops and events to continue growing the UC community abroad.
The Trust assisted our volunteers in London to set up the new UC Pride UK affinity group which represented UC at the London Pride Parade in June 2024 for the first time. We work closely with the UC campuses to help them establish and grow campus networks. In the last year, UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz, and UC Merced were also established in the UK, ensuring representation from all nine UC undergraduate campuses in the UK and fostering stronger global connections. In February, the UCI Campus Network in London hosted a Lunar New Year Dinner which celebrated the new year and connected alumni with students studying in London. The Trust continues to honor its commitment to the UC’s cultural heritage, community building, and professional development.
This year, we continued hosting our annual flagship events in London such as the Summer Celebration, the UC Alumni UK Network Kick Off and the Gala. These events exist to strengthen bonds and build connections between alumni and show visiting UCEAP students that while they may be far from California, they’re never far from UC.
UCLA Engagement Highlight
In partnership with the UC Trust, UCLA engaged over 300 alumni, parents, and friends across its European network. As in previous years, Chancellor Block and Vice Provost Cindy Fan led this program with official visits to Amsterdam, The Hague, London, Milan, Paris and Zurich.
Ten UCLA faculty members also held alumni engagement and development activities in various European cities. In London, the Serpentine Gallery opened a retrospective exhibition of the work of Emerita Professor Barbara Kruger, while the Paris Opera staged a production of Bellini’s opera Beatrice di Tenda by Professor Peter Sellars.
participation in the UK and Europe,
UC London Running Club
The UC Running Club is a fun way for alumni and students to connect with their community here in London.
Led by Lawrence Kao of UCLA and UC Berkeley and Ashley Dotter of UC Santa Barbara, they organize monthly runs around various London parks. The running clubs activities culminate every Summer when they run a London Charity 10k for UC student study abroad scholarships.
Ashley enjoys being part of the Running Club because it “provides an opportunity for students and other UC alumni to get out and enjoy the beautiful London parks.”
Sustainability Committee
The UC Alumni UK—EU Sustainability Committee was founded in 2022 by a group of alumni that are not experts in the field, but keen to learn. This group of dedicated alumni volunteers organize activities and talks to increase awareness of different efforts and research areas within the realm of sustainability. The group is chaired by Diego Groiso of UC Berkeley and Carlos Colman Meixner of UC Davis.
Some of the topics they have featured include climate change and health, sustainability and entrepreneurship, and biodiversity and farming. In the last year, their program has featured faculty and alumni from UC Berkeley, Davis, Irvine, San Diego and San Francisco.
UC Pride UK
UC Pride UK proudly serves as the alumni association for University of California alumni in the UK who identify as LGBTQ+ (with allies warmly welcomed).
Launched this year by Julien Brain (Berkeley Haas) and Kara Goslin (UC Santa Barbara), UC Pride UK has hosted a virtual watch party for Flare. Flare is a London-based LGBTQ+ film festival series organized by the British Film Institute. This year, UC Pride UK organized UC’s first official participation in London Pride.
The University of California Trust has worked hard to build a strong community in the UK. In the last year, we have expanded our reach to continental Europe. The UC Trust has significantly expanded its programming in Europe, with a primary focus on growing our alumni network in Barcelona and Madrid. There is approximately 10,000 alumni in Spain from across the UC campuses. The UC Trust aims to build stronger connections with this large network, and launch a greater presence in Europe beginning with Spain.
In October 2023, the UC Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) travelled to Spain to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the exchange with the University of Barcelona. The UC Trust and UCEAP partnered to host a dinner for local alumni and current student scholarship recipients, becoming our 4th most attended event of the fiscal year. Through this collaboration, we identified the future UC Alumni UK Student Gala Speaker and began cultivating a dedicated group of volunteers to expand alumni engagement in the region.
Following the celebration in Barcelona, we hosted a networking evening in Madrid that was also highly successful, with representation from nine out of the ten UC campuses. Throughout the fiscal year, we developed a diverse events program aligned with our key pillars: enriching the alumni experience, enhancing the student experience, fostering academic exchange, and offering alumni opportunities to give back to the UC community.
In February, we partnered with IE University in Madrid to host a talk and networking reception featuring Berkeley Professor Ikhlaq Sidhu, who spoke about artificial intelligence. ‘Knowledge exchange’ is a vital aspect of our programming, as we aim to provide alumni with continued access to the academic rigor they experienced at UC. This event ranked as our fifth most attended for the fiscal year.
In Barcelona, we cultivated a strong base of alumni volunteers eager to support our educational, social, and connection-oriented programming. In June 2024, we hosted a series of mini-talks by UC alumni who have transitioned to academia, at IESE Business School in Barcelona. This event attracted alumni from across the UC system, many of whom were new to the city and interested in connecting on both social and professional levels.
UC San Diego Engagement Highlight
This year, UC San Diego worked extensively with their European Networks by hosting alumni gatherings in Barcelona, Berlin, Munich and Paris.
Across these four European cities, over fifty new alumni came out to connect with fellow Tritons and learn about new opportunities to be involved with and give back to the UC San Diego community.
Volunteer Highlight: Kara Goslin
Kara Goslin (UC Santa Barbara ’10) is the President of UCSB Olé UK, co-chair of the new UC Pride UK affinity group, and an active volunteer with UC initiatives in London. She has been involved with the UC community in London for several years. Her passion for international education began at a young age, when she dreamed of attending the University of Oxford. She instead found herself at UCSB, and studied at the University of Sussex in the summer between her freshman and sophomore years, before returning to the UK for another study abroad term at the University of York. EAP’s strong presence at UCSB played a key role in her decision to study abroad. Kara’s deep appreciation for the program inspired her to engage in efforts supporting similar opportunities for future students.
When Kara moved to the UK to study, she welcomed the challenge of navigating a new environment. Studying abroad before smartphones limited her communication with family and friends, but she embraced this as an opportunity to build independence and immerse herself fully in a new culture. While studying abroad, she formed lasting friendships with flatmates and peers that she is still friends with today. Academically, Kara embraced the differences in the UK’s education system, such as increased independent study time, and found it to be an exciting challenge. The experience had a lasting impact on her personal and professional life which ultimately lead her back to London for work.
Kara became actively involved with UC Alumni UK after reconnecting with a friend from UCSB, Claire Frost, who introduced her to the local alumni community. She began attending events such as TTT (UCSB’s Third Thirsty Thursday), before participating in the Running Club and mentorship programs. Over time, Kara took on leadership roles, including serving as a co-chair of the Gala Committee. One of her most memorable experiences was participating in her first 10k run, where she was the last UC alumni to finish, but felt immensely supported by her UC community. This support motivated her to later complete the London Marathon. Volunteering deepened her connection to UC and allowed her to foster a sense of belonging among fellow alumni. She emphasises the importance of building strong relationships and creating a welcoming environment for newcomers, highlighting that community involvement can offer comfort and a sense of inclusion, especially for those living abroad.
Looking forward, Kara hopes to continue building the UC alumni community, particularly by expanding the UCSB-specific engagement and strengthening leadership succession within the group. She also aspires to enhance collaboration across the wider UC alumni network and strengthening new initiatives, such as UC Pride, a community for LGBTQ+ alumni. Kara envisions a legacy of inclusivity and continued growth, where the alumni network offers a dependable support system for those living abroad, and she remains committed to being a welcoming and approachable resource for future alumni.
Volunteer Highlight: Manuel Garcia
Manuel Garcia is an alumnus based in Barcelona who began volunteering for the UC Trust in October 2023.
“As an alumnus of UC Berkeley living in Spain, I deeply appreciate the opportunity to network with fellow alumni of the UC system. The University of California Trust has been a force in bringing together UC alumni by hosting relevant networking events. I particularly have enjoyed attending some of these events and have made meaningful relationships. I am grateful to the UC Trust for being a bridge that connects all UC campuses, including my alma mater, and making us, the alumni, feel at home.”
- Manuel Garcia (Berkeley ’96)
The 7th Annual UC Alumni UK Gala, hosted by the University of California Trust and the UC Alumni UK Network, was held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the historic and elegant Drapers' Hall in London. The Gala is an unforgettable evening which brought together 159 dedicated alumni, donors, and supporters to celebrate the international UC community and support the UC Study Abroad program.
The evening commenced with a sparkling reception, which set the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening, filled with warmth, comradery, and a shared commitment to supporting the next generation of University of California students. Guests had the opportunity to bid on silent auction prizes and purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win highly coveted prizes and one-of-a-kind experiences. As guests took their seats for the three-course dinner, the atmosphere was both festive and purposeful. UCLA, UC San Diego, UC Irvine, and UC Santa Cruz purchased tables for in which they could invite the alumni of their choice. Delegates from those campus travelled to London from several countries to attend this celebratory evening, including senior staff who travelled from California.
One of the evening's highlights was the inspiring speeches delivered by the event's keynote speakers. Daniel Mouen Makoua (Berkeley ’86), an esteemed alumnus, captivated the audience with his personal journey and reflections on the importance of being a global citizen. His words resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the transformative power of international education.
Following Daniel, Nicole Calbreath (Davis ’25), a current UC student and study abroad scholarship recipient, shared her experiences studying abroad in Barcelona. Nicole’s heartfelt speech provided a tangible example of the difference that donor contributions make in the lives of students.
The evening also provided an opportunity for guests to make direct contributions to the University of California. Many attendees generously made gifts to support study abroad programs at their home UC campuses. The presence of current study abroad students and scholarship recipients added a personal touch, as donors could see firsthand the impact of their support.
The 7th Annual UC Alumni UK Charity Gala achieved its goals of raising significant funds to support the University of California’s mission of providing world-class education and opportunities to its students.
The Gala was a testament to the strength and generosity of the UC community in the UK and Europe. The event successfully brought together alumni and supporters, reaffirming their commitment to the future of the University of California and its students. The funds raised will make a lasting difference in the lives of many, ensuring that the tradition of excellence at UC continues for generations to come.
UC San Diego Engagement Highlight
On the night before the Gala, UC San Diego kicked off the weekend by hosting a Welcome Reception for the UCSD Community. The evening offered alumni and students from the Triton community an opportunity to mingle and meet some senior staff from UCSD who travelled from California for this special weekend.
The evening featured spring cocktails in the sky at Hilton's Savage Garden Rooftop Bar for San Diego alumni and students alike. Over thirty guests made an appearance, including many of the students who would be volunteering at the Gala the following night.
The reception provided an opportunity for Tritons to meet in advance of the Gala, and for those who wouldn’t be attending, to have an unforgettable experience with their community.
Fiona Hanson
This year was a remarkable period for the University of California Trust, marked by hosting successful studentcentric initiatives that not only enhanced the experiences of students studying in the UK and Europe, but also strengthened the connections between current students, alumni, and the broader UC community.
Three key activities took place in the UK—the Careers Evening in November, student volunteer involvement at the UC Alumni UK Gala, and the Farewell Barbecue in May— highlighted our commitment to providing valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth while fostering a sense of community among our students abroad.
The academic year kicked off with a Careers Evening in November. This event was designed to offer students a unique opportunity to explore diverse career pathways. The evening featured a panel discussion with distinguished UC alumni who have successfully established careers in various industries across the UK.
The panelists shared their personal career journeys from UC to the UK, offering insights into the challenges they faced and the strategies they employed to succeed in their respective fields. The event was valuable for students considering international career prospects after graduation, as it provided them with a broader understanding of the opportunities available and the skills needed to thrive in a competitive environment.
The networking session that followed the panel discussion was another highlight of the evening. Students had the chance to interact directly with alumni, asking questions, seeking advice, and forming connections that could be instrumental in their future careers. The positive feedback from attendees underscored the success of the event, with many students expressing how the insights gained had broadened their horizons.
Global Challenge Lab
UC students participated in the Global Challenge Lab, a 14-day virtual program facilitated through the UC Trust’s partnership with Imperial College London. This initiative, hosted by the Imperial Enterprise Lab, brought together students and alumni from nineteen global universities to develop innovative solutions in Smart Cities and Climate Action, aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Participants formed international teams to tackle challenges such as Climate Resilience in Cities, Smart Mobility, Decentralized Renewable Energy, and Carbon Footprint Reduction. The program featured workshops, guest speakers, and mentoring, culminating in a final competition where the top six teams had the chance to pitch their ideas for a share of a £10,000 prize fund. Twenty-eight UC students participated, contributing to solutions for global sustainability challenges.
The 7th Annual UC Alumni UK Gala, a prestigious event aimed at raising funds for scholarships for UC students with an interest in studying abroad. We extended invitations to current students to participate as volunteers, an initiative that proved to be immensely popular. Student volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event, from welcoming and directing guests to selling raffle tickets and sharing their study abroad experiences with alumni and donors.
The involvement of student volunteers added a dynamic and youthful energy to the evening, and their interactions with alumni provided a unique bridge between past and present UC students. For the volunteers, the event was an opportunity to engage with a network of accomplished professionals while enjoying a glamorous evening in one of London’s historic venues.
The academic year culminated in a vibrant and festive Farewell Barbecue in May, bringing together students to celebrate the end of their London adventure. This activity allowed students to unwind, enjoy good food, and reflect on their experiences. With a mix of delicious food and lively conversation, the Farewell Barbecue was a memorable conclusion to a successful year.
UCLA Engagement Highlight
Enhancing the student experience continues to be a priority for the UCLA Law School and UCLA’s Division of Undergraduate Education in FY202324. In October 2023 and February 2024, students at the UCLA Promise Institute of Human Rights (Europe) in Amsterdam gave presentations about their experiences interning at the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court to prospective partner organizations, European alumni and friends.
Michael Waterstone, the new Dean of UCLA Law School, also visited London and met with several prospective British LLM students at a dinner hosted by a distinguished London-based alumna at The Athenaeum. The Dean of Undergraduate Education, Adriana Galván, also visited Europe to fundraise for existing and new Travel Study programs in Europe.
In October 2023, the University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) Head Office travelled to the UK and Europe for the 50th anniversary of the UCEAP exchange with the University of Barcelona. The UC Trust collaborated with UCEAP on a portion of this trip, by planning and hosting a series of activities for local alumni and UC students in London, Barcelona and Madrid.
In London, the UC Trust hosted a traditional British afternoon tea for UC Alumni and current UCEAP students studying in London. It acted as both a welcome to the UC students and a thank you to the alumni who worked and donated to enrich the study abroad experience from the UK.
Following the London event, the UC Trust travelled with UCEAP to Spain to attend the 50th anniversary celebration of the exchange program between University of California and the University of Barcelona. The celebration allowed alumni the opportunity to connect with each other and newly arrived UCEAP students. We found huge interest amongst alumni in Spain to connect with their UC community. Activities in both Barcelona and Madrid saw alumni representation from nine of the ten campuses, with both events oversubscribed.
Working with UCEAP in 2023 helped us build a dedicated base of volunteers in the region and expand the UC Trust’s alumni engagement initiatives.
“During 2023-24, the UC Education Abroad Program (UCEAP) worked closely with the UC Trust to host programs and receptions in London, Madrid, and Barcelona. At these events, alumni were able to glimpse at contemporary student life and reflect on its challenges, and current students gained valuable insight as to how they might translate their own experiences into future academic study or career paths.
Events such as these enable students to better understand the many critical soft skills they acquire during their time abroad—potentially opening up an even wider world in their future. These events were successful on multiple levels, bringing together alumni, students, staff, and local friends of the UC into new conversations and partnerships. UCEAP looks forward to additional future collaborations with the UC Trust!”
Vivian-Lee Nyitray, Ph.D.
Associate Vice Provost and Executive Director, UCEAP Professor of Religious Studies (Emerita),
UC Riverside
In February, the UC Trust partnered with IE University in Madrid and hosted a talk and networking reception featuring UC Berkeley Professor, Ikhlaq Sidhu about Artificial Intelligence. Ikhlaq Sidhu is the Dean of the IE School of Science and Technology in Madrid, and the founding Director of UC Berkeley's Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship & Technology since 2005.
‘Knowledge exchange’ is a priority for the UC Trust because it aims to bring the academic rigor that alumni and students experience at UC to Europe. We want to offer alumni the opportunity to not only connect with each other, but also continue their UC educational experience. This event was our 5th highest in attendance over the FY2023-24.
In Barcelona, we hosted an intimate dinner with alumni and students. Connecting alumni with UCEAP students is a core objective of the UC Trust. For students, it offers the opportunity to meet and learn from those that have been in their shoes. The students often seek career advice and insight on how to make the most of their international experience once returning to the United States.
By June 2024, we developed a strong base of alumni volunteers keen to work with us on a program that is educational, social and connectionoriented. In June 2024, we hosted a series a minitalks by UC Alumni who became academics. The event featured mini-talks by professors at IESE Business School including Jordi Gual (UC Berkeley), Carles Vergara (UC Berkeley) and Iñigo Gallo (UCLA). This event attracted alumni from across the UC campuses and Europe - many of them new to the city and interested in connecting on both a social and professional level.
“Living in Spain was an irreplaceable experience. That was thanks to the art and history, but also more importantly, the people. I will never forget the family I lived with and the international students I met. I also found a community through the UC Trust events. It was life-changing to meet alumni who made my dream year with UCEAP their entire life by moving abroad. I received a text from one of them upon returning to California that I hope to always remember because it is what UCEAP is all about: Keep on exploring and stay curious.”
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