In November 2023, over 40 alumni of ULCA returned to the campus for the inaugural edition of the Bruin Excellence in Civic Engagement Awards, where they would receive recognition. The awards recognize members of the ULCA Alumni Association for their public service leadership accomplishments.
Matt Kaczmarek, a UCLA Alumni Association board member, created the award. The ULCA Alumni Association Bruin 100 Award launched in 2022 to honor those making positive impacts in the private sector. It inspired Kaczmarek to create an award recognizing those in civil service.
The ULCA executive vice chancellor and provost, Darnell Hunt, was present to congratulate the award winners. During the award reception, Kaczmarek spoke. He praised ULCA for always giving its students access to hands-on experiences that help them deal with life’s challenges and excel as civic leaders. And having served for several years in public service, Kaczmarek understands what it feels like to serve the public.
