Do What's Right. Make Things Better. Be Kind. 

The Cultural North Star (CNS) is a school-wide initiative that embodies who we are and why we're here. 

At the David Geffen School of Medicine (DGSOM) we are a groundbreaking community of problem solvers, caregivers, innovators, and lifelong learners with a noble mission—to heal humankind by delivering leading-edge research, education, patient care, and community engagement. 

Culture north star

What is the DGSOM Cultural North Star?

Values that unite us 

We believe that a strong organizational culture is critical to our ability to achieve our mission and vital to our well-being and cohesion as a community. The Cultural North Star helps us build and maintain an inclusive, mission-driven culture by mapping our decisions, actions, and interactions to a shared framework.

Do What’s Right 

Do what's right

Make Things Better

Cultural North Star Yellow Star

Be Kind

Cultural North Star Blue Star
2024 CNS Awards CORE Lab Waving on Geffen Hall Steps

Awards

Building a strong organizational culture takes an active effort, every day, from all members of our community. The CNS Awards honor three teams each year that go above and beyond in making an impact at DGSOM.

Cultural North Star Awards
2023 CNS In-Action Grants Orientation - Two Individuals Talking

Grants

We are working to build a community around our values. The CNS In-Action Grants award select teams with the funding needed to implement projects at DGSOM that make things better, do what's right, and be kind.

Cultural North Star In-Action Grants
Cultural North Star Day celebrations in Switzer Plaza

Recognition

We all know those people who go above and beyond — who see a challenge as an opportunity, who remain kind and collaborative in the face of conflict, who exemplify CNS in their work, actions, and interactions. Take a moment to recognize.

Recognize a Colleague
Cheng Ramirez goes the extra mile for the clinic, staff and patients. She is approachable and looks for ways to hep if there is ever a challenge.
Kim Perez has been a rock star with all aspects of the GME Orientation. Even with the issues that can come up, she learned from them and is already working to make things better for next year.
CNS Nonoguchi Recognition Quote

Contact Us

We welcome all feedback, questions and ideas! 

Cultural North Star Lead

Natalie Perry, PhD


Connect with Us 

If you have questions regarding the Cultural North Star program, please reach out to us. 

Email: culturalnorthstar@mednet.ucla.edu