Building a Home at UCLA

The Community Programs Office (CPO) has a long-standing commitment to creating spaces where students from low-income and working-class backgrounds can thrive. In its early years, the CPO cultivated a close-knit community by bringing students together to celebrate significant milestones, such as the annual year-end banquet. Since 2008, these traditions have grown considerably, beginning with the introduction of the first CPO Open House and Holiday Potluck by CPO Director Antonio Sandoval Ayala and Writing Success Program (WSP) Founding Director Janet E. Brown.

In 2009, the inaugural CPO Welcome event was launched by former student leaders Layhearn Tep, Layhannara Tep, Katrina Vo, and Lydia Avila in collaboration with CPO leadership, establishing a tradition that continues today. By 2010, the End of Year Banquet evolved into the formal Community Reception, celebrating graduating seniors and student leaders, led by then-Office Manager Thuy Huynh. That same year, the CPO hosted its first annual Summer Block Party.

In 2011, the CPO introduced a large cookout during Bruin Day to welcome newly admitted students. By 2015, the event expanded to include transfer students during Transfer Bruin Day, following the advocacy efforts of former leaders Robert Jackson and Denise Marshall. In 2013, the department hosted its first tailgate, which grew into a signature event under the leadership of former CPO Administrative Manager Russell Castro. Today, the tailgate remains a cherished tradition for many students experiencing their first UCLA football game.

Campus-Wide Events and Traditions

CPO events have grown in scale and scope, with a focus on being campus-wide. The goal is to welcome all UCLA undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, along with faculty, staff, administrators, and community members. At CPO, everyone is invited, with many participants bringing their families as part of the CPO Family, which is a space where everyone can engage as they choose, and where all are always welcome.

Growing Together After the Pandemic

As the CPO continues to rebuild and grow in the wake of the pandemic, we are inspired by the increasing engagement in our events. Participants now include a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students, representing the full breadth of the UCLA community, including international students. Many of our events have attracted over a thousand attendees, showcasing the vibrant UCLA community we are committed to fostering.

We warmly invite you to join us this year as we work together to foster a strong sense of home at UCLA. This campus is yours, and we hope the CPO becomes a meaningful part of your UCLA experience.