A Message from the Dean

Devastating wildfires have affected Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the catastrophic wildfires. We salute the frontline firefighters who worked tirelessly to contain these fires and save lives. UCLA Nursing, as part of UCLA, demonstrated care, compassion, and kindness to support those coping, recovering, and rebuilding. It is in times such as these that nurses’ humanity and compassion shine through. Together, we stand in solidarity with our community and know that we will emerge from this disaster stronger than ever. 

As we continue to navigate through this challenge, I am pleased to introduce you to the relaunch of our newly redesigned UCLA Nursing Magazine — a collection of stories showcasing how Bruin Nurses are shaping health and healthcare in communities near and far. 

For more than 75 years, the UCLA School of Nursing has maintained a legacy of innovation, leadership, and excellence. It is those principles that continue to drive us forward, reaching for new heights in teaching, research, and service. Throughout this magazine, you will read stories of students, faculty, staff, and alumni who continue our legacy and embody our values of excellence and innovation, scientific inquiry, integrity and respect, teamwork, and compassion. 

At UCLA Nursing, we continue to elevate how we teach — ensuring we are preparing tomorrow’s nurse leaders with not just knowledge and expertise, but also compassion and empathy. Our holistic admissions process, the expansion of new programs and pathways to meet evolving needs of our students and communities (read 'Ensuring a Smooth Path'), and the implementation of the AACN New Essentials means we’re more accessible than ever and are providing high-quality, competency-based education to students from all walks of life. 

Our research enterprise continues to expand, with total funded research exceeding $25 million. From basic bench science to applied patient-centered studies and innovative solutions to worldwide problems, our nurse scientists — two of whom are featured beginning on page 28 — are working to improve health and wellness locally and globally as we strive to achieve health equity for all. 

We also remain steadfast in the service mission of UCLA. Through our deep partnership with UCLA Health (read 'A Healthy Partnership'), our students and faculty are able to go beyond the walls of higher education to provide meaningful health education and services to communities across Los Angeles. 

While we are experiencing rapid development of healthcare technologies such as AI, emerging new knowledge, and multifaceted challenges, I know that exactly within these challenges and opportunities, nurses find the strength to lead with passion, purpose, and joy. Together, our dedicated faculty, staff, students, and community partners will continue to work hand-in-hand and make a profound impact on the world — one patient, one community, and one student at a time. 

Thank you for all you do in support of UCLA Nursing. 

With Bruin Pride, 

Lin Zhan 
Dean & Professor