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see opal and her true bruin family in action

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Power PAC

2024 marks 30 years of UCLA Health’s People-Animal Connection, which has logged more than 120,000 recorded in-patient visits as well as hundreds of thousands of unrecorded visits to the Westwood and Santa Monica medical centers and events.

You can learn more about current and retired PAC therapy animals, including Opal, whose favorite toy is a squeaky squirrel, and her sister Clara, who enjoyed playing with a squeaky sloth.

“PAC is 100% funded by donations, so if anyone is looking for an opportunity to give back, I think that would be a great thing,” Neal said. “The community of people — and animals — who do this love what they do and work hard.”

“If you’re thinking about volunteering or are just curious about how the program works, reach out to PAC — or current volunteers like Roxanne,” Palomo said. “You don’t have to have a dog to get involved with and support the program, just the desire to help.”

If you would like to support UCLA Health’s People-Animal Connection, learn more here. (Tell ’em Opal sent you.)

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Mary Minter

Director of Global Engagement, Alumni Communities

Mary Minter

Director of Global Engagement, Alumni Communities

Email

Yolanda Gorman B.A. ‘78, M.B.A. ’83, Ph.D. ’93

Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs

Yolanda Gorman B.A. ‘78, M.B.A. ’83, Ph.D. ’93

Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs

On July 7, 2025, Yolanda Gorman B.A. ‘78, M.B.A. ’83, Ph.D. ’93 stepped into the interim role of Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs and Advancement Services, and CFO and COO of the UCLA Foundation and the UCLA Investment Company.  She has served the University in a variety of capacities, including nine years of distinguished service as chief of staff and senior advisor to the Chancellor.  As a proud triple Bruin, she was the first African American woman to serve as president of the UCLA Alumni Association (2006-2008), was a member of The UCLA Foundation Board, and is a two-time Alumni Regent Emerita for the UC Board of Regents. Prior to her UCLA tenure, Yolanda founded a consulting firm specializing in nonprofit management.  She then began her career in academia at Phillips Graduate University, rising from department chair, to dean, and ultimately president and CEO. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, an MBA and a Ph.D. in educational psychology.

Ella Rae Bautista Columbres

Associate Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Ella Rae Bautista Columbres

Associate Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email

Grace Vertanessian ’22

SAPFE Program Coordinator

Grace Vertanessian ’22

SAPFE Program Coordinator

Email

Ariadne “Addie” Cheng, M.A.

Director, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Ariadne “Addie” Cheng, M.A.

Director, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Email Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Eduardo Lowe

Digital Engagement Strategist, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Eduardo Lowe

Digital Engagement Strategist, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email

Jasselle Reyes

Associate Director, Events & Partnerships, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Jasselle Reyes

Associate Director, Events & Partnerships, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Email

Maricel Soriano

Administration Coordinator

Maricel Soriano

Administration Coordinator

Email

Akhil Bhimana

Engagement Data Analyst, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Akhil Bhimana

Engagement Data Analyst, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email

Lily Rosenberg

Assistant Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Lily Rosenberg

Assistant Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email

Jenn Wells

Chief of Staff, Alumni Engagement

Jenn Wells

Chief of Staff, Alumni Engagement

Email

Alyssa Nevarez ’23

Program Coordinator, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Alyssa Nevarez ’23

Program Coordinator, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Email

Austin Fox

Program Coordinator, Engagement Operations, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Austin Fox

Program Coordinator, Engagement Operations, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email

Paola Jasso ’23

Program Coordinator, Alumni Communities

Paola Jasso ’23

Program Coordinator, Alumni Communities

Email

Raffi Simonian ʼ85

Program Director, UCLA Epicenter

Raffi Simonian ʼ85

Program Director, UCLA Epicenter

Email  

Katie Ward

Chief Strategy Officer, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Katie Ward

Chief Strategy Officer, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email  

Karla Herrera-Guzman ’23

Program Manager, Global Engagement

Karla Herrera-Guzman ’23

Program Manager, Global Engagement

khguzman@support.ucla.edu

Megan Marshall

Assistant Director, Communications, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

Megan Marshall

Assistant Director, Communications, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

mmarshall@support.ucla.edu  

Andrea Sork

Assistant Director, Alumni Board

Andrea Sork

Assistant Director, Alumni Board

asork@support.ucla.edu  

Afomia “Mia” Seleshi ’11

Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Afomia “Mia” Seleshi ’11

Director, Alumni Career Engagement

mseleshi@support.ucla.edu

Gloria Gorden ’94, M.P.H. ‘98

Chief Administrative Officer

Gloria Gorden ’94, M.P.H. ‘98

Chief Administrative Officer

Email

Cyrail Smith

Program Coordinator, UCLA Alumni Career Engagement

Cyrail Smith

Program Coordinator, UCLA Alumni Career Engagement

csmith@support.ucla

Henry Zises ’22

Assistant Director, Alumni Travel

Henry Zises ’22

Assistant Director, Alumni Travel

Email

Denise Pacheco, M.A. ’04, Ph.D. ‘11

Senior Director, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Denise Pacheco, M.A. ’04, Ph.D. ‘11

Senior Director, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Email Dr. Denise Pacheco is first and foremost an educator and creative writer. She comes from an immigrant, farm-working family that constantly affirms the importance of serving the community. Dr. Pacheco is a double Bruin, earning both her M.A. and PhD at UCLA. After completing her Ph.D. in Urban Schooling, Dr. Pacheco directed a writing counseling program for UCLA undergraduates in the Community Programs Office and then transitioned to working in the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Office and the Dean of Student Office. In these roles she adjudicated student conduct cases, co-supervised the conduct team, facilitated professional development training for staff in relation to issues of equity and diversity, and developed signature events and initiatives to strengthen the university community and improve campus climate. This includes reimagining and co-directing the Chancellor’s new student welcome for all new undergraduate students, This is Bruin Life, and serving as co-lead of the Chancellor’s Leadership, Innovation, Networking and Knowledge (LINK) program, a cross-campus collaboration designed to facilitate student leadership development, dialogue across lines of difference, and organizational analysis. As a writer, educator, and social dreamer, Dr. Pacheco believes in our infinite potential to continuously work towards a world that is just, equitable, and compassionate towards all forms of life.

Irene Arenberg

Senior Clerk

Irene Arenberg

Senior Clerk

arenberg@support.ucla.edu

Gabriela Meza ’20

Program Coordinator, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Gabriela Meza ’20

Program Coordinator, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email Gabriela Meza ’20 is the Program Coordinator for UCLA Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives. She is part of UCLA’s work to create an inclusive and equitable space for diverse alum to come together and share space and resources for the betterment of their communities. As a first-gen, low-income graduate, Gabriela’s work is concentrated in grassroots advocacy and political organizing. Gabriela has worked for the National Park Service through the Latino Heritage Internship Program to increase park access for Spanish speakers in Los Angeles. Gabriela also worked at the UCLA Downtown Labor Center helping to raise funds to address the most critical issues facing working people today through research, education and policy work. Gabriela hopes to continue to create opportunities to connect with diverse alum across all generations to create a truly inclusive Bruin community.

Joseph “Seph” Duong

Director of Marketing, Alumni Marketing & Communications

Joseph “Seph” Duong

Director of Marketing, Alumni Marketing & Communications

Email Joseph (Seph) Duong joins UCLA as Director of Marketing, External Affairs. Before joining UCLA, Seph was Director of Marketing and Communications for the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) in Los Angeles. In addition to overseeing staff, Seph was responsible for leading the translation of institutional vision into a results-oriented communications program across platforms, with an emphasis on digital strategies. He led the internal and external planning, development, and implementation of the museum’s marketing and social media strategies, digital communications, and public relations activities. Seph also raised awareness for JANM by generating high-level media coverage of leadership, new strategic direction, new projects and exhibitions, and the announcement of major gifts. Seph earned a B.A. in Communications at California State University, Fullerton, and studied English Literature at Brookes Oxford University, Oxford, U.K. Seph loves the great outdoors and enjoys listening to and playing music.

Mike Crawford

Director of Marketing, Alumni Marketing & Communications

Mike Crawford

Director of Marketing, Alumni Marketing & Communications

Email

Greg Turk ‘83

Associate Director, Events & Building Management

Greg Turk ‘83

Associate Director, Events & Building Management

Email

Sara Mosgrove ’18

Assistant Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Sara Mosgrove ’18

Assistant Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email

Janette Palacios ’98, M.A. ’01

Director, Alumni Communities

Janette Palacios ’98, M.A. ’01

Director, Alumni Communities

Email As director of Affinity Networks, Janette Palacios engages with UCLA’s “legacy” groups (Affiliates of UCLA, Gold Shield Alumnae and Prytaneans), and student activity-based groups (Alumni Band, Daily Bruin Alumni Network, First Gen Alumni Network, Transfer Student Alumni Network and Veterans’ Alumni Network (VetNet)), among other campus-based entities. Prior to joining Alumni Affairs, Janette worked for the City of Alhambra where she was a project manager for over 15 years.  Janette was also the president of the UCLA Latino Alumni Association and was a founding member of the UCLA Alumni Beachside Network. Janette is a double Bruin, with a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a specialization in Chicana and Chicano Studies and a master’s degree in urban planning.

Haley Krakoski

Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Haley Krakoski

Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email  

Hon Hoang ’14

Digital Production Specialist, Alumni Marketing & Communications

Hon Hoang ’14

Digital Production Specialist, Alumni Marketing & Communications

Email

Sergio Roman ’18

Assistant Director, Business Development

Sergio Roman ’18

Assistant Director, Business Development

Email

Nikolai Laba

Digital Experience Lead, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Nikolai Laba

Digital Experience Lead, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email

Sandra Hwang

Executive Assistant

Sandra Hwang

Executive Assistant

Email

Nick Todd ’85, M.A. ’87

Senior Programmer / Analyst, Alumni Marketing and Communications

Nick Todd ’85, M.A. ’87

Senior Programmer / Analyst, Alumni Marketing and Communications

Email

Cory Rosas ’16

Director, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Cory Rosas ’16

Director, Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives

Email Cory Rosas (he/him) serves as the Associate Director for UCLA Alumni Diversity Programs & Initiatives where he supports the sustainable development of UCLA’s 12 alumni diversity networks and signature social justice programs of UCLA Alumni. Prior to UCLA, Cory served as a Communications Fellow in Los Angeles Mayor, Eric Garcetti’s Office of Immigrant Affairs where he helped develop communication strategies to reach the millions of immigrants that call Los Angeles home while uplifting new Americans through Garcetti’s New Americans Initiative. Cory has developed skills in volunteer management through his time as an AmeriCorps CalServes Fellow with 2-1-1 Orange County and with the National Park Service Intermountain Regional Office as a Centennial Urban Outreach Fellow. Cory earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from UCLA with a minor in film, television and digital media and certification in Sustainability from UCLA Extension.

Loren Vevaina ’16

Alumni Communities & Engagement Pathways Lead

Loren Vevaina ’16

Alumni Communities & Engagement Pathways Lead

Email Loren Vevaina supports various alumni networks such as Arizona, Colorado, Downtown Los Angeles, Monterey, San Fernando Valley, San Francisco, Silicon Beach, Texas and Westside Los Angeles, as well as other emerging networks. In her role, she works with alumni leaders around the nation to connect and engage Bruins through a variety of community service, social and networking events. Prior to joining Alumni Affairs, Loren worked at the UCLA School of Law. She served as president of the UCLA Westside Alumni Network and as a regional partnerships committee member of the UCLA Young Alumni Development Council. Loren graduated with a bachelor of arts in sociology and a minor in education.

Joseph Blancas ’14

Assistant Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Joseph Blancas ’14

Assistant Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email | Phone: (310) 206-8968 Joseph Blancas serves as an assistant director for the Alumni Career Engagement team, which focuses on the development and implementation of large-and small-scale career programs for alumni and students. He currently oversees programs, such as the UCLA Alumni Mentor Program, the Career Coaches webinar series and other niche professional development programs and initiatives for alumni. Joseph also serves as the staff liaison for our Bruin Professionals network. His prior experience at UCLA Alumni Affairs includes providing administrative and general programmatic support for the UCLA Spirit Squad and the Student Alumni Association. Joseph earned a bachelor of arts degree in gender studies from UCLA in 2014. During his time at UCLA, he served three years on UCLA’s Spirit Squad. Joseph also served on the Spirit Squad’s student leadership team, as the Mascot Coordinator, Junior Spirit Squad coach, Special Events Program Assistant and Cheer Squad Captain.

Laneisha Lockridge

Program Coordinator, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

Laneisha Lockridge

Program Coordinator, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

Email | Phone: 310-983-1291

Megan Friedlander ’12

Business Development Lead

Megan Friedlander ’12

Business Development Lead

Email

Mollie Q. Vehling ’99

Director, Bruin Traditions

Mollie Q. Vehling ’99

Director, Bruin Traditions

Email | Phone: 310-206-0565

Christina Ruiz ’05

Associate Director, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

Christina Ruiz ’05

Associate Director, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

Email | Phone: 310-825-9661 Christina Ruiz is the Internship Specialist with Partnership UCLA and the Career Center. Her role is designed to enhance collaborative efforts between Partnership UCLA and the Career Center. Ruiz’s role involves working with the UCLA College/Sharpe Fellows Program, which helps connect students with top internship opportunities, and working directly with alumni as employers who are looking to recruit top UCLA talent. Her work advances the internship and experiential needs of all UCLA students and focuses on the top industries of interest to students and Alumni. Before joining the Alumni Affairs team, Ruiz spent ten years serving in progressive roles within the UCLA Career Center, coordinating recruitment events, leading training for their customer service team, and managing a major revenue program through UCLA’s Letter of Reference and Credentials service. Ruiz holds a B.A. in psychology from UCLA.

Suz Park Ramirez ’10

Assistant Director, Alumni Travel

Suz Park Ramirez ’10

Assistant Director, Alumni Travel

Email | Phone: 310-825-3148 As the Assistant Director of Alumni Travel, Suz Park Ramirez processes and coordinates travel for more than 50 different tours around the world, provides administrative and financial support, and is in the process of developing a young alumni travel program. Previously, she was the travel coordinator with Alumni Travel. In that role Park coordinated bookings and confirmation packets for nearly 1,000 travelers annually. She also managed the Via Tour travel database, evaluations, host and faculty expenditures, and pre-departure meeting logistics. Park has served as a tour director on in-house cultural programs and is familiar with a majority of the tour offerings. Prior to her work with Alumni Travel, she was a teacher with Teach for America, serving in the South Central community of Los Angeles. Park is a graduate of UCLA with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in education. As a student, she was a member of the Student Alumni Association for three years and served on the board of directors during her senior year.

Christel Aragon

Director, Alumni Travel

Christel Aragon

Director, Alumni Travel

Email | Phone: 310-825-3983 Christel Aragon joined UCLA Alumni Travel in 1994 and assumed the position of Director of Travel in 1999. UCLA Alumni Travel offers 50 educational tours serving approximately 1,000 travelers annually. Christel strongly believes in lifelong learning through travel, and is persistently searching for ways to make the offerings more educational, unique and a good fit for UCLA’s alumni, family and friends. UCLA faculty are featured on more than 50 percent of the tour offerings. She is a member of the Educational Travel Community Executive Advisory Council, and is considered a leader in the non-profits for travel industry. Christel was born in Stockholm, Sweden, and she has more than 25 years of experience in the travel industry.

Sandy Nguyen ’10

Program Operations Lead

Sandy Nguyen ’10

Program Operations Lead

Email | Phone: 310-794-3437 Sandy Nguyen graduated from UCLA in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology.  Since September 2013, she has served as the Assistant Director for UCLA Young Alumni Engagement, focusing on providing support services, events, outreach and a customized experience for UCLA’s young alumni. Prior to joining the Young Alumni and Student Engagement team, Nguyen worked with the UCLA Parent and Family Programs team as a program coordinator.

Gloria Ko ’06, M.Ed. ’07

Senior Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Gloria Ko ’06, M.Ed. ’07

Senior Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email | Phone: 310-206-0523 <!– Gloria Ko serves as the director of academic and experiential engagement at the UCLA Alumni Association. She oversees the Partnership UCLA team, which strives to bridge academic theory to professional practice for all UCLA students. She oversees the implementation of programs, such as Bruin Development Academies to the Sharpe Fellows programs, to connect students to alumni across campus. Working with academic departments and corporate partners, her team strives to bring engaging and practical learning opportunities for students through alumni insight and experience. For more information about Partnership UCLA, visit https://alumni.ucla.edu/alumni-career-engagement-students/. Prior this role, she served as director of young alumni and student engagement, where she led student advancement programs and the Student Alumni Association at UCLA. Gloria’s areas of expertise are partnership building, program strategy and development, and student development. She is involved with the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, having served on the faculty of their Young Alumni & Student Engagement Institute and on the District VII Board of Directors. Gloria received a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and a master’s in education from UCLA. –> Gloria Ko serves as the senior director for Alumni Career Engagement leading career initiatives for alumni and students. She and her team aim to engage all alumni in meaningful ways to further and add value to the UCLA degree in the workplace. She currently oversees programs, such as Partnership UCLA /Alumni Career Programs, Alumni Mentor Program, UCLAONE and other career and professional development programming. Her prior experience at UCLA Alumni Affairs includes leading Young Alumni Engagement and the Student Alumni Association. Gloria serves on the board of directors for the CASE District VII Board. She is also an active member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, and has served on faculties for the Young Alumni and Student Engagement Institute. Gloria graduated in 2006 with a bachelors in communication studies and in 2007 with a M.Ed. in counseling in student affairs.

Estellaleigh Franenberg

Senior Director, Alumni Marketing & Creative Engagement

Estellaleigh Franenberg

Senior Director, Alumni Marketing & Creative Engagement

Email | Phone: 310-794-5189 Estellaleigh Franenberg joined UCLA Alumni Affairs in June 2000 as member services manager specializing in high-level customer service, campus and community relations, and volunteer recruitment. She credits those daily interactions with constituent audiences for invaluable insights into the rich diversity of experience and thought within UCLA. That, combined with a strong background in creative and journalistic writing, informed Franenberg’s work when in 2007 she became a Director of Marketing and Communications, managing the marketing for affinity, professional and regional networks, special projects and campus partnerships. Promoted to Creative Director in 2014, her title changed to Senior Director of Alumni Marketing & Creative Engagement in 2019. In addition to the aforementioned duties, Franenberg now also supervises the marketing team and collaborates with University Communications and Advancement Services to deploy new business intelligence. She manages the development of integrated and innovative strategies to disseminate event, program and university news to alumni, students, faculty, staff, parents, and other partners and stakeholders to increase university engagement, participation and philanthropy. Franenberg is also honored to be a certified reader for UCLA Admission. Franenberg has participated in the UCLA Professional Development Program, True Blue Toastmasters, the Inaugural AMG (Administrative Management Group) ProShare initiative and earned UCLA’s Management Development Certificate. Early in her career she participated in UCLA’s prestigious Management Skills Assessment Program and returned to the program as an assessor to help guide talented managers within the UC system in 2019. She has received numerous merit-based recognitions including an External Affairs Achievement Award for exceptional leadership. In 2019 her original idea for Alumni Day Online, which engaged thousands of Bruins at one time in a specially created website, won the top national and international award in its category from CASE, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. She is a proud Aztec, having earned a bachelor’s degree in theater arts from San Diego State University. Franenberg is an equally proud Life Member of the UCLA Alumni Association.

Anthony Cube

Director, Alumni Marketing and Communications

Anthony Cube

Director, Alumni Marketing and Communications

Email | Phone: 310-206-0410 Anthony Cube is Director of Alumni Marketing and Communications. He is the chief editor for the all-alumni e-newsletter Connect@UCLA, and responsible for student and young alumni marketing in addition to alumni career programs, sponsorships and volunteer opportunity communications. Prior to joining UCLA, Cube worked for the Josephson Institute of Ethics as an educational programs manager. He was responsible for coordinating and marketing nationwide training seminars for a character education program called CHARACTER COUNTS! Cube graduated from University of California, Irvine with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

George Brown, III

Interim Senior Director, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

George Brown, III

Interim Senior Director, Student Alumni Programs & Family Engagement

Email | Phone: 310-206-0622

Alyson Beckman

Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Alyson Beckman

Director, Alumni Career Engagement

Email | Phone: 310-560-7639

Brandie Barrera ’97

Senior Director, Engagement Operations, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Brandie Barrera ’97

Senior Director, Engagement Operations, Strategic Engagement & Innovation

Email | Phone: 310-825-8657

Phyll Perry

Phyll Perry

Education and Certifications:

University of Michigan: B.A in Speech (Theater/TV/Film) and Journalism
UCLA: Master of Fine Arts in Motion Pictures/TV/Screenwriting
University of Michigan: Master of Social Work

Biography:

Phyll Perry, M.S.W., M.F.A. started New Options Counseling in 1989 specializing in career choices, educational decisions, relationships and relocation. Over the past 30 years, she has expanded her practice to include counseling in the arts, with a special focus on careers in writing, acting, music, theater or interest in the field of fine arts. She also specializes in issues involving the human/animal bond, including the loss of a pet, emotional attachment and bonding with a pet, decisions or concerns regarding adopting a pet, including type of pet, what kind, why and related issues involving the tender care and longevity of welcoming a pet into your home and heart. She has been listed in the best-selling career manual, “What Color is Your Parachute” since 1995.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching, Creative Arts, Human/Animal Bond

Industry: Fine Arts

Email and Website: pepstar27@yahoo.com

John Brown, J.D. ’04

John Brown, J.D. ’04

Education and Certifications:

UC Berkeley: B.A. in Comparative Religion / Rhetoric
UCLA School of Law: Juris Doctor
Certified Hypnotherapist

Biography:

After graduating from the UCLA School of Law and spending years as an attorney and then as an entrepreneur (founder of The Los Angeles Shaving Soap Company), Brown realized he wanted to help people directly. Coaching and hypnotherapy appealed to him because of his ability to help people make rapid positive changes to their lives. Having completed America’s most comprehensive hypnotherapy training program, and having worked as a coach and hypnotherapist, Brown can tell you that these techniques work. He has experienced a wide selection of employment transitions in his career and looks forward to helping you deal with yours effectively and move forward with confidence and certainty. In his sessions, Brown begins by talking to you about your goals and your personal history. He explains how our experiences shape our “life scripts” and the expectations and limitations that can be created by our subconscious mind. Then he explains how coaching and/or hypnotherapy can be used to adjust and reshape our subconscious beliefs and create more positive thoughts and behaviors, so that you can move forward effectively toward your career goals.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Hypnotherapy for Confidency Building / Career Transition

Industries: Law, Information Technology, Startups

Email and Website: john@johnbrownhypnotherapy.com | johnbrownhypnotherapy.com

Lucy Tseng ’12

Lucy Tseng ’12

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Sociology, Asian American Studies, and minor in Education Studies
Life Coaching Certification with emphasis on career transitions

Biography:

Lucy Tseng is a Life & Resilience Coach working with folks who are experiencing major changes, particularly athletes of all levels who are transitioning to life after sports. Additionally, she is part of the development team that raised $5.49 billion during The UCLA Centennial Campaign and focuses on raising funds for scholarships and student support. Tseng was born and raised in Los Angeles and takes pride in being a native Angeleno. As a UCLA student, she was involved with several campus organizations including UCLA UniCamp, Pediatric AIDS Coalition, and served as a Resident Assistant for the Office of Residential Life. In 2014, Tseng graduated from the University of San Francisco (Southern CA campus) with a Master’s Degree in Sport Management. Her master’s thesis was focused on building a program to include life skills and development training for student-athletes. Shortly after grad school, she was recruited to work for Environmental Charter Schools (ECS), where she learned a great deal about the world of business development. After two years of being hands-on with almost every project at this growing charter school network, Tseng returned to her alma mater to contribute through the development team. To this day, she is a very active alumna and staff member. In July 2020, she was appointed as a staff advisor to the UC Board of Regents by President Janet Napolitano. Tseng’s breadth of experience has helped her discover her passion: being a resource to all people. More specifically, her purpose in life is to inspire and support others in finding, pursuing and living their own passions and purpose.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industry: Athletes transitioning to life after sports

Email and Website: lucy@resilientsee.com | www.resilientsee.com

Sami Toussi ’11

Sami Toussi ’11

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in International Development Studies
Board Certified Coach (BCC)
Robbins-Madanes Strategic Intervention Coach
Certified Coaches Federation
Strategic Coach (Entrepreneurial Practice)

Biography:

Sami Toussi, Board Certified Coach (BCC), is a career strategist and owner of Toussi International, a consultancy that helps individuals tap into their purpose to benefit the world. Toussi’s business encompasses more than 10 years of business and psychology experience, where she earned over six figures by her mid-twenties leading an international sales team. Despite Toussi’s early success her experience caused her to question the fullness and purpose of her life. Seeking answers, Toussi further delved into the coaching world and gained board certification in 2016. Toussi then founded Toussi International, a global consulting practice with clients ranging from business owners to professionals to multinational corporations. To date, Toussi has run over 70 workshops on topics such as career building, leadership, time management and work-life balance. She’s also coached more than 300 clients worldwide with specific measurable results, including some of the following: increasing monthly business revenue by 400%, promotions from manager to director, negotiating salary increase by 30%, enhancing employee engagement by 95%, and helping clients increase confidence and improve presentation skills.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Mid-Career, C-Suite, Entrepreneurs, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Owners/Founders

Industries: Technology, Service-based industries, Healthcare, General

Email and Website: info@samitoussi.com | https://www.samitoussi.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samitoussi/

Emily Taylor, MBA ’08

Emily Taylor, MBA ’08

Education and Certifications:

Stanford University: B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Sociology
UCLA Anderson School of Management: Master of Business Administration

Biography:

Emily Taylor brings first-hand experience of the hiring process from the employer’s side and the preparation process from a business school career center perspective. This means she can tell you with certainty what it takes to shine. Over the past 15 years, Taylor has used her insider knowledge to help thousands of career seekers take their next step. She graduated from Stanford University with a BA and Masters degree, and began her career as a college counselor, placing over 500 students at top schools in America. Next step was an MBA at UCLA Anderson. From there, she went to a high growth startup and managed all recruiting, hiring and human resources as the VP of Talent. Taylor returned to UCLA Anderson to redesign their career education program. She coached 2,500 students in career management and transformed UCLA’s Career Services Center into the No. 1 career services program in the top 20 business schools. To extend her reach beyond UCLA Anderson, Taylor founded NextStep Careers to give job seekers the personalized career coaching they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market. She has successfully coached in 45 cities in six different countries on career pathing, résumé design, LinkedIn profile optimization, authentic networking, cover letter writing, multiple rounds of interviewing and offer negotiation. In fact, most of her new clients are referrals from her satisfied clientele. Taylor takes the time to understand you and your career goals and then customizes a coaching program to enable you to achieve your objectives. In addition, she runs courses and workshops for companies, foundations and universities like Johnson & Johnson, Forte Foundation and the UCLA Anderson Alumni Association.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Early career, Mid-career and Executive level, Career pivot

Industries: All with an emphasis on technology and healthcare

Email and Website: emily@nextstepcareer.org | https://nextstepcareer.org

Ellie Tabibian

Ellie Tabibian

Education and Certifications:

California State University, Northridge: B.A. in Psychology, M.A. in School Psychology and Certificate in Career Education and Counseling
Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach
Certified in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and Strong Interest Inventory

Biography:

Ellie Tabibian is a Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths coach and career counselor helping professionals unleash their best abilities for meaningful success in all phases of career needs. As a faculty instructor at Pepperdine University, she has coached students needing to leave managers, change careers, pivot to different positions and advance in their careers. Her approach utilizes the science and soul of CliftonStrengths throughout the entire process. Science relies on the decades of research in over 50 countries; the soul part is that you will not have to pretend to be anyone else. This process is accelerated for faster results and is a powerful means to experience meaningful success. In 2016/2017, she was awarded the Woman of the Year Award with the National Association of Professional Women.

As a trainer and consultant, Tabibian works with corporate teams during times of transition in management, onboarding and staff engagement initiatives. Leaders who have transitioned into new roles will use their hidden talents with strategic communication to build the trust of their supervisors, teams and clients. With rapid change resulting in ambiguity and high stress, she uses her expertise to quickly build bridges between existing talent and critical business needs. This transformation not only increases engagement in staff, it also positively impacts the wellbeing of new formed teams.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Science, STEM, Business, Technology, Engineering, Math, Law

Email and Website: tabibianellie@gmail.com | http://www.soar.com/ellietabibian

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellietabibian

Mollie Stephens, M.S.W. ʼ16, M.P.P. ʼ16

Mollie Stephens, M.S.W. ʼ16, M.P.P. ʼ16

Education and Certifications:

Cornell University: B.A. in American Studies
UCLA: Dual Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) and Masters of Public Policy (M.P.P.)
LCSWA in North Carolina
ICF ACC (Working on PCC)

Biography:

Mollie Stephens, M.P.P., LCSWA, ICF ACC, is the founder and CEO of Matter Collaborative, a coaching, therapy and consulting practice dedicated to supporting social change and mission-driven professionals. Through Matter Collaborative, she offers therapy, coaching and consulting to design and facilitate transformational sessions for hundreds of mid- and senior-level leaders, helping them shift mindsets, clarify their impact and achieve their goals. Stephens draws on a career spanning direct service, policy and organizational leadership, including over a decade at LEE where she most recently led a team of 19 staff running workshops, developing resources and supporting 900-plus coaching clients annually. She also serves as a lecturer at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs, teaching about public affairs careers to graduate students. She has previously worked at CDF-CA, TreePeople, Chrysali and the ACLU-MD, and is driven by the deep belief that there is a sustainable way for every person to make the world a better place. Stephens lives in North Carolina with her husband, daughter and cat, and holds a dual M.S.W./M.P.P. from UCLA, a B.A. from Cornell University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate and ICF PCC candidate.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual, 1:1, and small and large group

Career Stages: Entry, Mid- and senior-career coaching (seeking new role), and Effectiveness/Executive Coaching (seeking to increase Impact, Leadership, Management, Strategy). Group work focused on skill building in managing up, down and across, and identity-focused/role-alike groups.

Industries: Nonprofit, Government, Public service, Helping professions, Pivots in and out of corporate

Email and Website: mollie@mattercoaching.com/ | https://www.mattercollab.com/

Greg Rickman, MBA ’12

Greg Rickman, MBA ’12

Education and Certifications:

UCLA Anderson School of Management: MBA
Princeton University: B.A. in English
Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies – Institute for Transformational

Leadership:

Executive Certificate in Leadership Coaching
International Coaching Federation: Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

Biography:

Greg Rickman is an executive coach and corporate speaker. He works with CEOs, EVPs and SVPs, who are preparing for or navigating big changes, who want to significantly up-level their leadership skills, who are creating something so big in their personal or professional lives they know they will need to evolve to create it, or who simply want to be happier, be more satisfied, be fulfilled and be effective.

With more than 15 years of corporate experience in securities and real estate law, investment banking and strategy consulting, and over two decades of intense personal growth and development across dozens of transformational disciplines, Rickman brings a wealth of practical knowledge and experiential wisdom to his coaching.

He currently lives in Novato, CA in Marin County, just north of San Francisco and when he is not working, he serves as the treasurer on the The Human Awareness Institute Board of Directors. Rickman’s favorite hobbies include exploring the mountains and coastal redwood forests near his home, attending Ecstatic Dances and weightlifting.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via phone)

Career Stages: Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching, Leadership / Executive Coaching

Industries: iBanking, Management Consulting, Real Estate Finance, Corporate Law, Biotech

Email and Website: gsrickman@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-rickman-mba-4715126

Milind Raval

Milind Raval

Education and Certifications:

CSU Northridge B.S. Marketing
UCLA Executive Education Certificate
NYU Executive Coaching Certification
Gallup Strengths Certification
International Coaching Federation ACC Credential

Biography:

Milind Raval is an ICF ACC Credential Executive/Leadership Coach, who specializes in helping leaders at all levels find ways to get unstuck. He’s an empathetic listener, proactively prompts his clients to think differently and provides a casual, safe space for clients to open up and be vulnerable and honest. He earned his executive coaching certification from NYU in December 2024, followed by his ICF ACC Credential in January 2025. Additionally, he is a certified Gallup Strengths Finders coach. He also mentors young people through volunteer work at The Lantern Network, LA Works and thinkLA.

With a background in running various advertising agencies, he possesses a deep understanding of the communications, marketing and advertising fields. His experience working with Fortune 500 clients in the automotive, finance, retail and technology sectors has given him insight into how executives in these companies operate.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-Level, Mid-Career, Senior Leadership, C-Suite, Career Change, Organizational Development

Industries: Marketing/Advertising/Automotive/Technology/Retail/Entertainment/Social Media

Email and Website: coachmilind23@gmail.com | https://www.coachmilind.com/

Annette Pearson, MBA ’10

Annette Pearson, MBA ’10

Education and Certifications:

UCLA Anderson School of Management: MBA
Emory University: B.A. Economics and French
Credentialed with International Coaching Federation Associate Certified Coach (ICF ACC)
Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC)

Biography:

As a certified leadership and career coach, Annette Blum Pearson brings her lived experiences, intuition, industry expertise and coaching tools to the work she does with individuals, teams, organizations and communities. She partners with everyone from entrepreneurs to seasoned corporate leaders as they focus on values-driven career development, burnout reduction and personal fulfillment.

Pearson has worked in product management, sales enablement, solution and brand marketing for over 10 years in both big tech and startups. She’s driven large-scale marketing and community initiatives with creative passion and a growth mindset, allowing her to cultivate thriving teams and organizational success.

Her passion for community led her to also create Shalon, an organization built to drive vital conversations that connect and educate participants about solving societal problems. Bringing Shalon style conversation into her coaching practice allows individuals, corporate teams and resource groups to uplevel and inspire their meetings, gatherings and strategic planning.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (Facetime, Zoom, Google Hangout, Skype)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Tech, Marketing, Coaching

Email and Website: annette@annetteblumpearson.com  | www.annetteblumpearson.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annetteblum/

Cynthia Orduña

Cynthia Orduña

Education and Certifications:

Loyola Marymount University: B.A. in Multimedia

Biography:

Cynthia Orduña is a career coach and talent development advisor with a background in recruiting, career development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has helped over 50 startup companies in L.A., S.F., N.Y., and Chicago recruit and retain talent, and has coached over 300 people in all stages of their career from entry to senior levels. She specializes in helping people enter the technology industry, build their business and create their personal brand. Her life mission is to amplify as many voices, cultures and backgrounds as she can by helping people develop themselves personally and professionally.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Tech, Media/Advertising, Design/Creative

Email and Website: cynthia@cynthiaorduna.com | https://cynthiaorduna.com/

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-orduna/

Marcy (Newman) Hess

Marcy (Newman) Hess

Education and Certifications:

CSU Northridge: B.A. in Communications
USC: M.Ed. in Postsecondary Administration & Student Affairs
Gallup™ Certified Strengths Coach
Certified in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory

Biography:

Marcy Hess, M.Ed. is a higher education professional with over 15 years of experience guiding students, alumni and professionals in their career and professional development. She currently serves as a senior director of a university career center in Los Angeles. In 2008, Marcy Newman Coaching was launched in an effort to support individuals navigate their next career moves and transitions. Hess also provides one-on-one coaching for résumé and cover letter writing, interviewing techniques, job and internship search strategy, LinkedIn profile building/branding, graduate/professional school applications and career exploration through assessments such as the CliftonStrengths. She is also a speaker and trainer for teams, groups and communities on a variety of career topics and trends.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (video conferencing and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Marketing and Advertising, Media Communications, Public Relations and Higher Education

Email and Website: marcy@marcynewmancoaching.com | www.marcynewmancoaching.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcyhess

Sanaz Nabati

Sanaz Nabati

Education and Certifications:

California State University, Northridge: M.S. in Educational Counseling and Psychology with Career Counseling Specialization

Biography:

Sanaz Nabati earned double degrees from California State University, Northridge, with a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in educational psychology and counseling with specialization in career counseling. She has experience in community college, higher education and nonprofit as a career coach, and also in commercial real estate management as a bookkeeper. Her extensive knowledge in industry and higher education enables her to provide thorough and informed guidance for her clients, drawing many positive reviews from her happy clients.

She is currently an assistant director at the UCLA Career Center where she consults with students in all majors providing career exploration, and graduate and professional application guidance (pre-law, medicine, health, psychology, MBA, etc.) She brings extensive experience working with a variety of student populations such as international students, students with disabilities, students who study and work abroad, and those who need career exploration to identify their career path.  She utilizes many tools, her extensive knowledge and background in helping her clients identify and strategize steps toward their goals.  She also guides clients in the job search process by providing résumé writing and editing, interview skills, and job search assistance.  She thrives on helping clients identify and pursue their ideal career path – as it is one of the most important decisions one makes in their lifetime. She enjoys enhancing her knowledge and expertise in career development by serving on a variety of associations such as the board of California Career Development Association, National Career Development Association and PCAPLA (law-related) to enhance her knowledge and broaden her network in the areas of her consultation practice.

She genuinely enjoys helping her clients achieve their goals, optimizing their quality of life, confidence, happiness and sense of fulfillment.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (FaceTime and Zoom)

Career Stages: Entry Level, Career Pivot, Mid Career and those pursuing professional school education

Industries: Graduate School-bound Individuals, Job Search With a Disability, International Students, First-generation, Students With Dependents, Goal-Setting, Professional Development,  Career Exploration, Job Search, Interview and Résumé Writing, Graduate/Professional School Application Timelines for Pre-Health, Pre-Med, Pre-Law, Pre-MBA, Psychology and other programs such as PhD programs

Email: snabaticareer4u@gmail.com

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sanaz-nabati

Liz Mohler

Liz Mohler

Education and Certifications:

University of Wisconsin Madison: B.S. in Psychology
University of Arizona Tucson: M.S. Counseling Psychology / Vocational Assessment Rehabilitation
International Coach Federation: ACC and PCC (Associate and Professional Coach Certification)

Biography:

Liz Mohler, M.S., PCC, is an ICF-certified career coach with over 25 years of experience helping professionals ReaLIZe their potential, VisuaLIZe their goals and ActuaLIZe their dreams. She guides individuals through career transitions, supporting them in redefining success at pivotal moments. Mohler brings particular expertise working with lawyers navigating career pivots and professionals in the arts as they balance creativity, business realities and long-term career sustainability. Known for her energetic, engaging and highly practical (Midwest-values-driven) coaching style, Mohler helps clients clarify direction, build confidence and create a clear VISTa Career Blueprint — answering the powerful question, “What exactly are you looking for?” Seasoned executives to recent grads leave with purpose, momentum and lasting results. She is a Westchester Mental Health Board member, frequent podcast guest, keynote speaker, adjunct professor and world traveler.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, Virtual (Via Internet, Text and Phone)

Career Stages: Career Pivot, C-Suite, Mid-Career, Entry-level, General Counseling / Life Coaching

Industries: All, with expertise working with recent grads to seasoned executives facing career challenges/retirement.

Email and Website: LizMohlerBusiness@gmail.com | www.LizMohler.com

Markell Morris

Markell Morris

Education and Certifications:

UC Santa Barbara: B.A. in Sociology
University of San Diego: M.A. in Counseling
National Certified Counselor
Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH) Credential
Certified in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and Strong Interest Inventory

Biography:

Markell R. Morris is a speaker, career counselor and job search coach. Known for empowering her clients from a place of possibility and abundance, she has spent her award-winning career motivating and guiding people in search of direction and advancement. An expert in the career management process, Markell offers her clients strategies that will help them curate satisfying careers, including job search action planning, personal brand development, professional networking and leadership development.

Her work with major cities and universities covers topics such as career motivation and success, career assessment, career exploration, effective job search strategies, and career transition for adults evaluating their career paths after loss and life-altering personal challenges.

Morris received a M.A. in counseling from the University of San Diego (USD) and a B.A. in sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara (USCB). She is a National Certified Counselor and among the first career counselors nationwide to become a Distance Credentialed Counselor.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Re-entry

Industries: Higher Education, Consumer Products, Entertainment, Nonprofit, Technology, Business Services, Entrepreneurship

Email and Website: markell@futures-in-motion.com | http://www.futures-in-motion.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markellmorris

Kevin Medina, M.S.W. ʼ16, M.P.P. ʼ16

Kevin Medina, M.S.W. ʼ16, M.P.P. ʼ16

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: Master of Social Welfare and Master of Public Policy
UC Irvine: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Social Behavior, Education Minor, Life Coach Certification
University of Southern Florida: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion in the Workplace Certificate
Regents of the University of California: Moving Beyond Bias (Train-the-Trainer)
The Network for Social Management: Human Services Management Certificate

Biography:

Kevin Medina is a Los Angeles-based queer Latino first-generation professional who has worked at the nexus of education and social change since 2010. In addition to offering traditional career development support, he provides culturally responsive, trauma-informed and strengths-focused career coaching services to enhance various factors that may be impacting clients’ career development success. He possesses expertise supporting clients who are seeking careers within government, schools and universities, nonprofit organizations, foundations, and social impact consulting firms.

In his full-time role, Medina is UCLA Luskin’s Director of the Office of Student Affairs & Alumni Relations, where he manages their career services, student support and wellness initiatives, employer and alumni relations, fellowship administration and organization partnerships, and civic engagement programs. In his spare time, he performs with the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, is on the advisory committee for ONE LGBTQ Archives Institute and provides data analysis consulting for L.A. County Board of Supervisors on hate crimes in Los Angeles.

Available Coaching Methods: In-Person or Video Conferencing

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Public Policy/Administration, Social Work, Urban Planning

Email and Website: kmed@ucla.edu | https://medinaconsulting.my.canva.site

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-medina-mpp-msw/

Armine Kulikyan

Armine Kulikyan

Education and Certifications:

Cal State University Northridge: B.A. in Psychology, M.S. in Counseling & Student Services, Post-Master Certificate in Career Education & Counseling

Biography:

Armine Kulikyan is currently an assistant director of career education & development at UCLA’s Career Center. She brings extensive experience in both academic and career counseling, having served at institutions including CSU Los Angeles, CSU Northridge, Pasadena City College and Cal Lutheran University.

Through her career, Kulikyan discovered a deep passion for career development, which led her to launch her own company, www.careerrise.org. Through CareeRise, she empowers individuals to navigate their career journeys with clarity and confidence. She offers one-on-one counseling for career exploration and planning, job search strategies, interview prep, résumé and cover letter building, LinkedIn profile building, graduate and professional school applications, and essay reviews. She also offers workshops and trainings on various career topics for teams and organizations. Lastly, she co-hosts Coffee and Career Hour, a genuine and informative podcast on all things career.

Kulikyan is committed to helping individuals identify their goals, strengths and growth areas through a holistic and developmental approach. Her mission is to inspire and equip others to achieve lasting success and fulfillment in their professional lives.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, General Counseling/Coaching

Industries: Generalist – Career Explorations, Career Transitions, Goal-Setting, Self-Exploration, Professional Development

Email and Website: info@careerrise.org | careerrise.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akaragyulyan/

Ricky Koo ’09

Ricky Koo ’09

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: Psychology
Certified Professional Coach (CPC)
Credentialed with International Coaching Federation (ICF)
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Biography:

Ricky Koo is a seasoned corporate executive, bold entrepreneur, and a passionate speaker and writer. He has a background in psychology from UCLA and started his career as a certified public accountant before becoming a finance leader at numerous Fortune 500 companies across banking, financial services and technology industries. Further, he leveraged his experience in the corporate world and built a successful business as a certified leadership and communication coach focused on empowering people to be more confident and seen in their careers, while being their authentic selves.

Koo’s strong instincts as a business leader is apparent through his years of success in leading people through challenging environments while developing and fostering strong cultures. As a coach, his unique style and expertise in leadership and communication shine through as he blends science and real-world experience to drive the most meaningful outcomes for his clients.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (FaceTime, Zoom, Google Hangout, Skype), Virtual or In-Person Workshops and Events

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Consulting/Professional Services, Finance and Technology

Email and Website: coach@rickykoo.com | http://rickykoo.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickykoo

Amanda Jaggard

Amanda Jaggard

Education and Certifications:

Kansas State University: B.A. Secondary Education and Teaching

Biography:

Amanda Jaggard is a partner and executive coach with Novus Global, an executive coaching firm of 50-plus coaches. As one of the first coaches to join Novus Global, she has had a significant role in building and shaping the firm’s culture. She is a co-founder of the Meta Performance™ Institute, a pioneering coaches training program, training and developing coaches in their coaching ability as well as in building a thriving coaching practice. She currently serves as faculty for The Institute, coaching and mentoring leaders transitioning into coaching careers. She is one of Novus Global’s top corporate trainers and is a primary developer and lead trainer for the Meta Performance Management Trainings, training leaders and executives in organizations in the coaching work. In addition to her leadership in the firm, she also has a full coaching practice with some of the top leaders in technology, entertainment, manufacturing, sports, finance and nonprofits. Jaggard is passionate about helping people live transformed and empowered lives, as she has experienced the deep power of coaching in her own life. Her oldest son is currently a Bruin, set to graduate in 2027. She lives in Los Angeles with her younger son.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (Facetime, Zoom, Google Hangout, Skype)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: All industries and all sizes: Technology, Entertainment, Entrepreneurs, Billion Dollar Global Companies, Manufacturing, Real Estate, Finance, Venture Capital, Sports, Education, Government, Nonprofits, etc.

Email and Website: amanda@novus.global | https://novus.global/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-jaggard-084134133/

Jane Chongchit Houston ’04

Jane Chongchit Houston ’04

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: International Development Studies
Certificate in Professional Coaching Practice (ICF Accredited)
Co-active Training Institute – Fundamentals of Coaching

Biography:

Jane Chongchit Houston is an executive career coach with a passion for developing leaders at all stages of their careers. With more than 15 years of experience as a U.S. diplomat, she has served at U.S. embassies and consulates across latin America and Asia, leading high performing global teams to promote human rights and security through public diplomacy, immigration policy, fraud prevention and data analytics. Now as an executive coach, she is dedicated to partnering with global leaders and young professionals to find career paths that align with their personal values, leadership potential and professional goals. Houston has mentored and coached international career executives to maximize their potential and expand their leadership skills to lead global teams. She is dedicated to public service and as a first-generation Thai American, she actively supports leaders who are striving to balance their career with the desire to serve and give back to their communities.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (Facetime, Zoom, Google Hangout, Skype)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management

Industries: Executive Coaching, Career Coaching, Life Coaching, Diplomacy, Leadership Development, Crisis Management

Email and Website: jane@coachjane.co | https://www.coachjane.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jchongston

Jessica Hekmat, MBA ’10

Jessica Hekmat, MBA ’10

Education and Certifications:

UCLA Anderson School of Management: MBA
Boston University: B.A. Mass Communications

Biography:

Jessica Hekmat is a brand strategist and business consultant, working with entrepreneurs, start-ups and businesses to articulate and manifest their purpose. She partners with individuals and organizations seeking clarity and impact, to find and tell their story. She provides frameworks to bring intentions into awareness and creates a tangible roadmap for success.

Hekmat has 20 years of business and communications experience. With a bachelors in mass communication from Boston University, an MBA from UCLA Anderson and experience working within agencies, startups and Fortune 500 companies, Hekmat applies a creative and strategic approach to each project she takes on. Her clients span business and consumer tech, fashion and lifestyle, medical and wellness, nonprofit and social enterprise, as well as individual coaching. 

In 2023, Jessica launched Back to Work(shop), a series of events, workshops and retreats to scale her reach and impact, focused on empowering participants to reconnect with themselves, their purpose and their ambitions. To receive Hekmat’s newsletter, subscribe here.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing, In Person

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Exploring Entrepreneurial Ideas

Industries: Brand Strategy, Marketing Communications, Business Development, Employee Engagement | Tech, Medical + Wellness, Beauty, CPG, Real Estate, Education

Email and Website: jess@jesskimia.com | jesskimia.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakimiabakhsh

Jim Hjort ’94

Jim Hjort ’94

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Sociology
USC: Master of Social Work
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Biography:

Executive and career coach Jim Hjort specializes in helping intelligent, inquisitive professionals navigate vocational change, with the confidence born of innate wisdom coupled with proven science. He offers in-depth values discovery workups for people contemplating a career change, strategic planning for those facing career disruption or workplace problems, and step-by-step guidance in breaking through achievement plateaus, using cutting-edge motivational science. He also works with clients with career challenges precipitated by disruptions in other areas of life, like divorce, mid-life crisis or substance abuse. Hjort has provided coaching for organizations including AltaMed and the Loyola Marymount School of Film and Television, has lectured at UCLA’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and 2nd Act. He has also served as an expert lecturer on Crystal Cruises voyages. He has been quoted or published in media outlets such as Self, Fast Company and Psych Central, and appeared as a guest on morning television programs across the U.S. Hjort is happy to offer a complimentary initial consultation to explore how he can help you take your next best steps.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Entertainment, Finance, Law, Medicine, Technology

Email and Website: jim@jimhjort.com | https://www.jimhjort.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimhjortlcsw/

Erin Haywood

Erin Haywood

Education and Certifications:

San Francisco State University: B.A. in Liberal Studies, Minor in Africana Studies
Loyola Marymount University: M.A. in School Counseling with a PPS Credential

Biography:

Erin Haywood’s career as an educator and consultant has been grounded in critically thinking about some of the toughest societal issues like diversity and inclusion, accessible education, and workforce development. She is committed and passionate about continuing to learn, develop and collaborate with some of the brightest minds to help forge a brighter future. With 10 years of experience in various industries such as nonprofit, education and tech startups, Haywood has partnered with several corporations, including Facebook, KPMG and Prudential, to diversify their applicant pool by developing solutions for their hiring challenges. Recently, she founded Powered By Purpose Inc., an online community and career coaching service for diverse professionals looking to plug into their purpose and level up in their careers. Haywood’s mission is to empower her clients to live authentically by identifying root barriers to their development and success.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Tech, Education, Finance and Nonprofit

Email and Website: poweredbypurposeinc@gmail.com | www.poweredbypurposeinc.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/erin-haywood

Siria Gutierrez ’05

Siria Gutierrez ’05

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in History
University of Nevada-Las Vegas: J.D. from William S. Boyd School of Law
Co-Active Training Institute: Certified Professional Coach (CPCC)
Certified Positive Intelligence Coach

Biography:

Siria L. Gutierrez, CPCC & Esq., (she/her) is a high performance leadership coach helping leaders who want to help themselves overcome being overworked and overwhelmed, so they can avoid burnout and love the life they have built. She works primarily with lawyers, business owners and BIPOC professionals. She is a speaker, mental health advocate, mental fitness and mindset coach, podcaster and lawyer based out of Las Vegas, Nevada. She is a first-gen professional from Guatemala y Nicaragua and is a Certified Professional Coach receiving her training from the Co-Active Institute, which is respected worldwide as the gold-standard of coaching. Siria co-hosts the Pivotal Moments HQ Podcast, a wellness and mindset podcast, with her best friend and COO for the Center of Appreciative Inquiry, Melissa Robaina. She knows the power of embracing your full self and empowers others to do the same to build a better world. To rest and rejuvenate, she enjoys spending time with her partner Matthew, watching live theater, doing watercolor art and attending fan conventions for her favorite show Supernatural.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via phone call or video conferencing)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Leadership, Law

Email and Website: siria@siriagutierrez.com | https://www.siriagutierrez.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siria-gutierrez

Ally Gong ’19

Ally Gong ’19

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Economics

Biography:

Ally Gong is a career and personal brand coach helping entrepreneurs, artists and creators build aligned careers, increase their income and develop confidence in their personal and professional paths. Through her one-on-one coaching and one-week Dream Brand Launch, she empowers clients to break through limiting beliefs, leverage their unique strengths and create personal brands that attract life-changing opportunities.

With over a decade of experience in social media, digital marketing and brand strategy, Gong helps her clients navigate the evolving digital landscape to build visibility, attract clients and scale their impact. She has worked across Los Angeles, the Bay Area, New York, Seoul, Tokyo and Shanghai, gaining global experience in content creation, marketing, entrepreneurship and business development.

Gong holds a bachelor’s in economics from UCLA and has studied entrepreneurship at Babson College and marketing at Yonsei University in Seoul. She has also trained in mindset coaching, NLP, meditation and cognitive behavioral techniques to help clients overcome self-doubt, shift their mindset, and create lasting and transformative success.

Beyond coaching, Gong is a content creator, writer and entrepreneur. She has run a lifestyle blog for over a decade, self-published two poetry books and was previously signed to a modeling agency in Los Angeles. She currently runs a YouTube channel focused on personal branding growth and career empowerment, and is pursuing certification from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition.

Passionate about helping UCLA alumni build confidence, clarity, and a strong personal brand, Gong is dedicated to guiding professionals in navigating career transitions, launching and scaling businesses, and unlocking new opportunities in the creator economy.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (Facetime, Zoom, Google Hangout, Skype)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Digital Marketing, Branding, Social Media

Email and Website: contact@allyinspires.com | https://www.allyinspires.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allygong/

Kelly George

Kelly George

Education and Certifications:

Temple University: Ph.D. Media & Communication
Emerson College: M.A. Health Communication

Biography:

Kelly George is a career and wellness coach serving people who identify as disabled or neurodiverse, as well as those living with chronic illness. She blends over a decade of experience in higher education with evidence‑based coaching to help clients meet ambitious goals without sacrificing their wellbeing. As a scholar, her research centered on understanding the experiences of people with disabilities in their own words and stories. In leadership, research and teaching roles, she has worked at the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, Rutgers University’s School of Social Work and as an associate professor at Immaculata University. Coaching sessions are tailored to each client’s needs and follow the standards of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Trained through MentorCoach — an ICF-accredited program grounded in positive psychology — George also holds a Ph.D. in media and communication from Temple University and an M.A. in health communication from Emerson College/Tufts School of Medicine. Drawing on her experience mentoring hundreds of students, she now provides clients with professional growth and business start-up support. George knows first-hand the challenges that can arise from navigating the job market with a disability or illness, including the nuances of disclosure and access. She aims to put her clients in the driver’s seat, allowing them to explore their unique contributions to the workforce while pursuing balance between work and life.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing and phone), one-on-one and group support

Career Stages: Students; Early, Mid-Career and Late-Stage Professionals; Career Transitions; Solopreneurship; Retirement

Industries: Communications, Media, Nonprofit, Arts, Higher Education, Healthcare, Small Business Start-Up, General

Email and Website: kelly@kellygeorgecoaching.com | https://kellygeorgecoaching.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-george-ph-d-54621baa/

AJ (Aaron) Eckstein

AJ (Aaron) Eckstein

Education and Certifications:

USC: B.S. in Business Administration

Biography:

AJ interviews recruiters for a living. As the host and creator of “The Final Round Podcast”, Eckstein speaks with recruiters at top companies to help you advance past the final round interview. When he is not podcasting, he is leading the coaching team at Career Coaching Company, a startup that he founded to help individuals land top jobs in consulting and banking through 1:1 tailored coaching. Since the company’s inception, Eckstein has coached over 200 hours with students and professionals and has helped over 125 individuals land top jobs.

Regarding industry experience, Eckstein works in strategy & consulting at Accenture, the world’s largest consulting firm. Eckstein previously interned at 5 companies including Fortune 100 companies and tech startups. His most notable internships include the Business Leader Rotation Program at The Walt Disney Company and a Business Strategy & Operation Internship at TeleSign (a CPaaS company that was acquired for $230M).

With over 10,000 followers on LinkedIn and 1,000,000 content views, he has amassed a following that trusts his career advice. If you are looking for a young yet experienced career expert that just recently went through the same job recruitment process you are about to go through, be sure to reach out!

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: General and Management Consulting

Email and Website: aj@thefinalround.com | https://thefinalround.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-aj-eckstein/

Diane Dreher, M.A. ’70, Ph.D. ’73

Diane Dreher, M.A. ’70, Ph.D. ’73

Education and Certifications:

UC Riverside: B.A. in English
Santa Clara University: M.A. in Counseling Psychology
UCLA: M.A in English, Ph.D. in English
Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation, Certified MentorCoach (CMC) with MentorCoach

Biography:

Diane Dreher, Professional Certified Coach (PCC), is a positive psychology coach and founder of Diane Dreher Coaching & Consulting, LLC, a consultancy that helps individuals and organizations flourish. Her coaching clients have begun new careers, started their own companies, published books, achieved greater work-life balance and gained valuable skills to help them excel in their professional and personal lives. She has coached clients throughout the United States and in Britain, Asia and the Middle East. Dreher has offered consulting and keynotes to organizations including Allstate Insurance, California Agricultural Leadership, Holiday Inn International, Levi Strauss & Co., the Parent Coaching Institute and the Women’s Professional Tennis Association, as well as local community groups. She’s also a college professor, a regular blogger for Psychology Today and the author of seven books, including the best-selling “Tao of Inner Peace,” “The Tao of Personal Leadership” and her latest book, “Your Personal Renaissance: 12 Steps to Finding Your Life’s True Calling.”

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Transitions, New Leadership, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Small Business Startups, Counseling, Publishing, Education and Management

Email and Website: diane@northstarpersonalcoaching.com | http://northstarpersonalcoaching.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianedreher/

Kellie Corbisiero

Kellie Corbisiero

Education and Certifications:

Humboldt State University: B.A. in Psychology
California State University, Sacramento: M.S. in Counseling
National Career Development Association (NCDA) Certified Career Counselor
Certified in Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Coaching

Biography:

Kellie Corbisiero is a career counselor and coach offering over 10 years of experience in career development and human resources. She works with individuals at every stage of their life in facilitating career identification, career changes, promotion acquisition, professional branding, LinkedIn creation, résumé building, interview preparation and helping individuals get unstuck in their career. Corbisiero uses her modern career development approach to help you understand your options, harness technology to maximize your career success and develop successful decision-making strategies. She can assist anyone in any occupation but has the highest level of industry expertise in the areas of information technology, administration of justice, education, state/federal government and medicine. Corbisiero has a M.S. in counseling, specializing in career counseling from California State University, Sacramento, and a B.A. in psychology from Humboldt State University and is a certified career counselor.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Education, Information Technology/Cyber Security, Mental Health, Human Resources, Human Services, State and Federal Government

Email and Website: kelllie@connectcareerconsulting.com | connectcareerconsulting.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelliecorbisiero/

Kimberly Cook, M.P.H. ’15

Kimberly Cook, M.P.H. ’15

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: Executive Master of Public Health, Health Policy & Management
UC Davis: Bachelor of Science, Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior; Minors: English and African & African-American Studies
Member, National Résumé Writer’s Association
Member, National Career Development Association
Graduate Certificate, Health Care Management & Leadership (UCLA)

Biography:

Kimberly Cook, former UCLA Health Administrator and Hiring Manager uses over a decade of health care experience and insider knowledge to her client’s advantage. She is passionate about seeing aspiring health care professionals and more experienced careerists thrive in the industry and achieve professional success. Drawing confidence from an impressive career at top-tier health care organizations and hiring for a broad range of positions from administrative to clinical roles, Cook knows what health care hiring managers look for in candidates and the keys to a successful health care career.

Clients across the United States trust Cook’s knowledge and expertise to give them the ultimate competitive advantage and accelerate their health care careers.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Coaching for entry-level and mid-career only, all others for résumé writing services

Industry: Health Care

Email and Website: info@bluepenresumes.com | https://bluepenresumes.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcareresumewriter

Chris St. Clair ’83

Chris St. Clair ’83

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Political Science
Certified Professional Career Coach

Biography:

Chris St. Clair’s passion is guiding her clients to find their strength and their voice! She can help you navigate and recover from a job loss or career transition, as well as other transitional life experiences, faster and more effectively than you thought possible. St. Clair works together with her clients, leveraging either a structured or freeform format, to get them where they want to go. A graduate from UCLA with a degree in political science, she has more than 30 years experience in the technology industry (IBM, Amdahl, PeopleSoft, Polycom and others). She earned her CPCC certification with CTI (Coaches Training Institute) and has been coaching for over five years. St. Clair welcomes the opportunity to speak with individuals to hear about what you are going through and what you’re hoping to achieve through coaching. Call today for a complimentary 30-minute introductory session!

Available Coaching Methods: Phone

Career Stages: Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Transition – Career, Divorce, Other

Industries: Technology, Real Estate, General

Email and Website: chrisstclair06@yahoo.com | www.stclaircoaching.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisstclair1/

Duncan Chapple ’02

Duncan Chapple ’02

Education and Certifications:

Hult: Ashridge Certificate in Coaching
UCLA Anderson: Certificate in International Business
Manchester Business School: Executive Coaching Program
Skills Academy: Certificate in Personal Coaching
London Business School/Dartmouth College: MBA

Biography:

Duncan Chapple coaches alumni developing successful careers in Western Europe. He has 20 years of experience coaching graduates developing international careers, principally in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom. He is a career strategist with Human Equity, an organization development consultancy serving professionals and investors developing personal and board-level transition plans. Chapple provides one-on-one coaching for résumé and cover letter writing, graduate school admissions, interviewing techniques, job and internship search strategy, and career exploration through assessments such as CareerLeader. He has language qualifications from Dutch, French and German universities, and extensive experience of working with professionals across Europe.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Information Technology & Services, Market Research, Public Relations & Communications, Management Consulting

Email and Website: dc@alumni.ucla.edu | https://www.humanequity.net/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanchapple/

Susan Chang ’93

Susan Chang ’93

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Psychology
Northwestern: M.A. in Counseling
UC Irvine: Certificate in HR Management
Gallup Certified Strengths Coach
The Meyers & Briggs Foundation: MBTI Certified Practitioner
HR Certification Institute: PHR Certified
SHRM Certified

Biography:

Susan Chang is a seasoned career counselor and talent management professional who has a passion for helping individuals, teams and organizations leverage their strengths to do more of what they naturally do best. As an adjunct faculty and career coach with an extensive background in Human Resources and counseling, she has coached college students and professionals at all levels of their careers from entry level to executive roles. She has a passion for helping individuals identify careers and workplaces that tap into their strengths, values, skills and interests. As a human capital leader, she has developed and executed on human resource strategies for companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 and spanning across various industries including health care, hospitality, retail, technology and manufacturing.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (Video Conferencing)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, Executives, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, Leadership and Team Skills, Navigating Corporate Life and Emerging Leaders

Industries: Education, Professional Services, Technology, Health Care, Restaurants, Sports and Human Resources

Email and Website: changrose@cox.net | www.leadwithstrengths.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanchang

Bill Benson ’87

Bill Benson ’87

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Motion Picture, Television
Antioch University: M.A. in Clinical Psychology

Biography:

Bill Benson, LMFT, LPCC, is a licensed psychotherapist, conflict resolution counselor and career clarity/negotiation coach. Benson pioneered The Mental Gym, a Los Angeles-based private practice specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy and positive psychology. He draws on 25 years of clinical knowledge and experience, helping individuals and teams strengthen communication, enhance contribution and increase productivity.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing, Virtual and In Person

Career Stages: Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Psychological counseling and coaching

Email and Website: Bill@thementalgym.org | http://www.thementalgym.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbensontherapist

Emily Baxt ’92

Emily Baxt ’92

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Women Studies
University of San Diego: M.A. in Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC)

Biography:

Emily Baxt is an experienced, compassionate career counselor and coach who enjoys helping people figure out how their strengths can benefit the world. Many of her clients are early- to mid-career professionals, parents returning to work, or successful professionals looking for something more. She enjoys listening to her clients’ stories, helping them identify barriers that may hinder their career success and collaborating to identify next steps. Baxt is a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Master Practitioner, a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and a qualified Strong Interest Inventory administrator. Those assessments can help determine interests, preferences and strengths in the workplace and give you insight into your path. She can talk about where you are, where you want to go and how she can help.

Available Coaching Methods: In-person, virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management,
General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: All

Email and Website: emily@baxtconsulting.com | https://www.baxtconsulting.com

Austin Bauer ’09

Austin Bauer ’09

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Communications
International Coach Federation Certified Coach (Professional Certified Coach level)

Biography:

Austin Bauer, Professional Certified Coach (PCC), is an executive coach and founder of Simple Progress, a consultancy that helps organizations do better work by developing cultures of organizational listening, collaborative learning and internal innovation. Bauer has worked with over 1,500 leaders at more than 50 companies including YouTube, CBS, The American Heart Association, Kaiser Permanente, Edelman, Omnicom, Taco Bell, Project Worldwide, Garage Team Mazda, 72andSunny, The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, The 4A’s and Bastion Collective. He is a regular guest facilitator for the USC Iovine and Young Academy for Arts, Technology, and the Business of Innovation; leads west coast engagements for Caveday (a company improving our relationship to work); and is the strategic advisor for the social impact design consultancy, verynice.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via internet and phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching

Industries: Media, Marketing, Design and Advertising

Email and Website: austin@simpleprogressllc.com | www.simpleprogressllc.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinbauer/

Marge Ang

Marge Ang

Education and Certifications:

UC Berkeley: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering
Chicago Booth Graduate School of Business: MBA
Co-Active Training Institute: Certified Professional Coach (CPCC)
International Coaching Federation: Associate Certified Coach (ACC)

Biography:

Marge Ang is a Career Management and Leadership Development Coach at the UCLA Anderson Professional MBA Career Management Center. She is focused on helping career professionals build confidence, develop leadership skills, and sustain rewarding careers. She specializes in career pivots – helping clients make successful transitions and adapt to a fast-changing business environment. Marge also empowers clients to navigate corporate life successfully – from developing effective cross-functional team leadership skills to influencing without authority, and managing up.

Marge is also an innovative marketer with a passion for technology and all things marketing. Her coaching practice is grounded in over 20 years of sales and marketing experience in the tech industry – leading through real business challenges at Fortune 500 companies and startups (Intel, Samsung, iRobot, Tivic Health, Plutora, Adobe). Her mission is driven by her own career pivots and corporate leadership experience.

Marge is a Certified Professional Coach (CPCC, ACC) and received an MBA from the Chicago Booth School of Business, and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing and phone)

Career Stages: Students; Early, Mid-Career, and Late-Stage Professionals, Executives, Career Pivots (across industries, functions, Fortune 500 to startups and vice-versa, global cultures), Leadership and Team Skills, Navigating Corporate Life

Industries: Technology, Marketing, Advertising and Communications, General

Email and Website: coach.marge.ang@gmail.com | https://bluemonkleadership.com/

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/margeang

Jessie Arora ’02

Jessie Arora ’02

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: B.A. in Business Economics
Stanford University: M.A. in Education

Biography:

Jessie Arora is a nonprofit leader, startup founder and angel investor who is passionate about empowering people to live in alignment with their values. She spent 15-plus years focused on the intersection of education and technology with experiences at Google, Citizen Schools and was the first executive director of Wogrammer.org. She currently shares her energy and expertise as a Leadership Coach, focused on women (mainly moms, founders and women of color). Learn more, read testimonials and sign up for a free 30-minute Discovery Session at jarora.me.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing

Career Stages: Mid-career, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling/Coaching

Industries: Career explorations, career transitions, goal-setting, self-exploration

Email and Website: jasmit@gmail.com | https://www.jarora.me/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessiearora/

Cinthia Flores ’10

President-Elect

Story of Purpose

Cinthia Flores ’10

President-Elect

Cinthia Flores was appointed in 2020 by California Governor Gavin Newsom to serve as a Board Member of the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board. She is a quasi-judicial officer, adjudicating claims arising from state labor law. Prior to her appointment, she practiced immigration law, with a focus on defending individuals from deportation at the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). Cinthia is Past President of the Latina Lawyers Bar Association, an organization dedicated to supporting Latinas in the legal profession. In 2022, the Hispanic National Bar Association recognized Cinthia as a “Top Lawyer Under 40.” Cinthia is President and founding Board Member of Latinas Lead CA, a political action committee dedicated to supporting Latinas pursuing elected and appointed office. Cinthia has a long history of service to UCLA and the University of California. During her senior year at UCLA, she served as Student Body President, the first Latina to hold the position. Cinthia is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine School of Law. During law school, Cinthia served as Student Regent on the University of California Board of Regents. In 2021, she received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the UCLA Academic Advancement Program. Cinthia was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA and is the daughter of Salvadoran immigrants.

Paco Retana ’87, M.S.W. ’90

President

Story of Purpose

Paco Retana ’87, M.S.W. ’90

President

For nearly 35 years, Paco Retana has been serving the vulnerable youth and marginalized communities in Los Angeles. As a recognized mental health expert and Chief Program Officer at Wellnest, he is responsible for all clinical programs, including strategic planning, program evaluation and training in support of Wellnest’s mission through a holistic approach to emotional well-being. Wellnest offers hope, healing and opportunity to the children, young adults, families and communities they serve. Their commitment remains steadfast as they enter their second century of service. Under Paco’s leadership, Wellnest provides quality mental health services, promotes early intervention and ensures easy access for a community in great need by initiating and implementing program changes to meet new funding streams for innovative prevention programs. Additionally, Paco has served as a consultant for numerous community organizations, educational institutions, and foundations including the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, First 5 LA, Watts Gang Task Force, Green Dot Public Schools, the Santa Ana Unified School District, and The California Endowment Sons and Brothers initiative providing professional development training, psychological and facilitation services, counseling, education and crisis intervention. Paco is the former co-chair of the Latino Underserved Cultural Communities for DMH, he is a former voting member of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) System Leadership Team, and former co-chair of the Service Area Advisory Committee for South Los Angeles. Paco serves on the UCLA Order of the Blue Shield and as a Luskin Senior Fellow. He is also a UCLA Alumni Association Sustaining Donor. Paco is the recipient of the Humanitarian Award from the National Conference for Community and Justice and an Honoree of NAMI Urban Los Angeles. Paco earned a bachelor’s in psychology and a master in social work from the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs.  He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Connect with Paco on UCLA ONE.

Alicia Anagnostou ’96

Alicia Anagnostou

Education and Certifications
UCLA: B.A. in Sociology
UCLA Extension: Creative Non-Fiction Writing Certificate
Co-Active Training Institute (CPCC-Accredited)

Biography
Alicia Anagnostou is a sociologist, creative nonfiction writer, serves as vice president of Client Loyalty and Retention for a Fortune 500 company and is the founder of First Edition Coaching, a values-based leadership organization. With more than 20 years of experience in corporate leadership, she has coached and mentored both emerging and established leaders in a wide array of industries. She believes in the importance of giving a voice to one’s core values through thoughtful word choice, purposeful messaging and the sharing of powerful life stories. She is a two-time graduate of UCLA with a degree in sociology and a certificate in creative nonfiction writing. She lives in the Bay Area with her two teenage daughters and Rottweiler, Evie.

Available Coaching Methods: Virtual (via video conferencing + phone)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, International business, Emerging leaders

Industries: Values based leadership, Women in leadership, Emerging leaders, International student

Email and Website: alicia.anagnostou@gmail.com | http://firsteditioncoaching.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-anagnostou-67963261/

Paula Amezola, M.P.H. ’02

Paula Amezola, M.P.H. ’02

Education and Certifications:

UCLA: Master of Public Health, Epidemiology

UC Davis: B.S. in Genetics

Biography:

Paula Amezola is creator and founder of First Gen Legacy (FGL) an equity education service committed to providing first-generation students with the tools for successful

careers and generational wealth. Having navigated the challenges of migration,financial struggles and language barriers, Amezola earned her bachelor’s in genetics from UC Davis and a Master of Public Health in epidemiology from UCLA.

With over two decades in public health, Amezola has focused on diversity, equity,inclusion, advocating empathy and cultural humility. As the former founder of public health career services at the Keck School of Medicine, she has extensive experience in program development and career coaching. Amezola was elected to the CCUSD School Board of Education in 2020 as the first Spanish-speaking Latina. She addresses equity issues for English learners, low-income and unhoused students. This role introduced her to a financial literacy teacher community, aligning with her vision of equipping students with crucial life skills.

In 2023, she had the honor of serving as the president of the CCUSD School Board, playing a pivotal role in creating the first school board handbook. Her priorities included

enhancing the student environment, leading initiatives such as mental health programs, environmental sustainability efforts and the CCUSD CARES program.

Available Coaching Methods: Video Conferencing (FaceTime, Zoom, Google Hangout, Skype)

Career Stages: Entry-level, Mid-Career, C-Suite, Career Pivot, Management, General Counseling / Coaching, First Gen Professionals

Industries: First Gen Professionals, Public Health, Education, and Government

Email and Website: contactus@firstgenlegacy.com | https://firstgenlegacy.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-amezola-mph/

Yolanda Gorman B.A. ’78, MBA ’83, Ph.D. ’93

Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs

Story of Purpose

Yolanda Gorman B.A. ’78, MBA ’83, Ph.D. ’93

Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs

On July 7, 2025, Yolanda Gorman B.A. ‘78, M.B.A. ’83, Ph.D. ’93, stepped into the interim role of Associate Vice Chancellor, Alumni Affairs and Advancement Services, and CFO and COO of the UCLA Foundation and the UCLA Investment Company. She has served the University in a variety of capacities, including nine years of distinguished service as chief of staff and senior advisor to the Chancellor. As a proud triple Bruin, she was the first African American woman to serve as president of the UCLA Alumni Association (2006-2008), was a member of The UCLA Foundation Board, and is a two-time Alumni Regent Emerita for the UC Board of Regents. Prior to her UCLA tenure, Yolanda founded a consulting firm specializing in nonprofit management. She then began her career in academia at Phillips Graduate University, rising from department chair, to dean, and ultimately president and CEO. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, an MBA and a Ph.D. in educational psychology.