Events
Upcoming Events
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Connecting People. Inspiring Change.
Exploring the People, Cultures, and Stories that Shape Los Angeles and Beyond
We offer opportunities to stimulate rich interactions and discussions that allow our community members to learn from one another.
Through our events, mentorships, and training and professional development programs, we strive to build a culture fed by many voices and perspectives and an environment where those from all backgrounds have the support they need to thrive.
Commemorative Months and Observance Days
Through monthly educational programs open to all, we create spaces to learn from one another and discover our shared humanity. These gatherings are designed to bring compassion and cultural understanding into the care we provide across all communities.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service
Entering its third year, the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service I Have a Dream in STEM Conference brings together students, faculty, and community partners to explore pathways in science and medicine. We partner with clinical departments and other health sciences schools to offer hands-on workshops that engage young learners in the wonders of science.
Month-Long Observance
Black History Month
Each February, we learn from the legacy, leadership, and contributions of Black physicians, scientists, and health professionals whose work continues to shape medicine and community health. Our programs create space for reflection, dialogue, and growth as we explore innovation and various perspectives in healthcare.
Observance Day
Lunar New Year
Each year, we take time to learn about the traditions and cultural significance of the Lunar New Year, celebrated by many Asian communities around the world. Our programs highlight the values of renewal, connection, and gratitude that inspire belonging across our UCLA and Los Angeles communities.
Month-Long Observance
Women’s History Month
Each March, we learn from the achievements, leadership, and resilience of women who have shaped medicine, science, and public health. Our programs spotlight their contributions, spark dialogue on opportunity and innovation, and inspire continued progress toward access and belonging across the health sciences.
Observance Days
Holi
Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, marks the arrival of spring and celebrates renewal, joy, and community. Our programs invite reflection on cultural traditions that honor connection, gratitude, and the vibrancy of shared experiences across UCLA and the greater Los Angeles community.
Nowruz
Nowruz, or Persian New Year, celebrates renewal and the beginning of spring in many cultures across the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond. Our programs highlight the season’s themes of reflection, balance, and hope, fostering appreciation for the traditions that strengthen our UCLA and California communities.
Arab American Heritage Month
Each April, we learn from the stories, leadership, and contributions of Arab Americans whose work continues to enrich medicine, science, and culture. Our programs highlight the diversity within Arab American communities and create opportunities for learning, dialogue, and connection across campus.
Observance Period
Ramadan
During the month of Ramadan, many Muslims observe fasting, reflection, and prayer from dawn to sunset. We invite our community to learn about the significance of this sacred time and to be mindful when scheduling meetings or events for colleagues and learners who are fasting. This awareness helps foster an environment of respect and understanding for all.
Month-Long Observances
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Each May, we learn from the stories and contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities whose leadership and innovation continue to shape health, science, and public service. Our programs encourage understanding of the cultural richness and histories within these communities and foster dialogue on connection and collaboration across UCLA and California.
Jewish American Heritage Month
Throughout May, we recognize and learn from the achievements, leadership, and enduring impact of Jewish Americans in medicine, research, and education. Our programs explore the values of resilience, learning, and service that continue to inspire our work across the health sciences.
LGBTQIA+ Pride Month
Each June, we learn from the histories, leadership, and ongoing contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals who have advanced inclusion and innovation in medicine and beyond. Our programs provide opportunities to deepen understanding, build allyship, and foster safe and affirming spaces for all.
Observance Day
Juneteenth
Observed annually on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and honors the enduring strength, creativity, and resilience of Black communities. Our programs invite reflection on the ongoing pursuit of freedom and justice, encouraging our community to learn from history and renew our shared commitment to compassion and humanity in healthcare.
Month-Long Observance
Disability Pride Month
Each July, we learn from the voices and advocacy of people with disabilities whose leadership and innovation continue to shape access, education, and healthcare. Our programs celebrate disability as a natural part of human diversity and encourage action on how we can create environments that foster accessibility.
Each August, we come together as a community to welcome our incoming medical students, trainees, and new faculty. This season marks a time of renewed purpose and shared commitment to learning, service, and collaboration.
Month-Long Observance (September 15 – October 15)
Latino/a/e/x Heritage Month
Each year, we learn from the stories, leadership, and contributions of Latino/a/e/x communities whose dedication continues to shape California’s culture, economy, and health landscape. Our programs highlight the resilience within these communities and invite reflection on the role of education, connection, and opportunity in advancing health for all.
Observance Period
Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Jewish New Year and is observed as a time of reflection, renewal, and community. We encourage mindfulness around this observance and awareness of potential scheduling conflicts for those celebrating.
Month-Long Observance
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Each October, we learn from experts and advocates in the field of disability inclusion, gaining insight into practices that promote access and create better work environments. Our programs remind us that inclusion begins with each of us—by being more mindful, supportive, and collaborative colleagues.
Observance Day
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is observed as a time of reflection, fasting, and renewal in the Jewish faith. We encourage mindfulness around this observance and consideration when scheduling meetings or events to support those who are observing this important day.
Month-Long Observance
Native American Heritage Month
Each November, we learn from the histories, traditions, and ongoing contributions of Native and Indigenous communities whose stewardship and knowledge continue to shape our society and environment. Our programs encourage reflection on visibility, cultural understanding, and respect for the ancestral lands on which we learn and work.
Observance Days
Diwali
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by many across the world as a time of joy, renewal, and connection. Our annual Diwali celebration honors the spirit of light triumphing over darkness and brings our community together to share culture and fellowship across the health sciences.
National First-Generation College Celebration Day (November 8)
On November 8, we recognize and honor the experiences of first-generation college students, trainees, staff, and faculty whose journeys reflect resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education. Our community takes this time to learn from and celebrate the various pathways that lead to success in medicine and science.
Observance Day
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3)
In December, we recognize the International Day of Persons with Disabilities as an opportunity to learn about accessibility, inclusion, and the many ways people with disabilities strengthen our academic and clinical communities. Through reflection and education, we continue learning how to better serve our patients and one another with empathy, understanding, and respect.
Our programs are strengthened by your perspectives. We welcome your ideas and collaborations. Join us in shaping future events and initiatives by submitting your ideas through the [OIE Programming Collaboration Form].
Ongoing discussions and dialogue
Our community will be at its strongest and most resilient when everyone benefits from the insight of eclectic perspectives. DGSOM aims to cultivate an environment of continual broad-minded growth by providing events and opportunities for open communication. If you'd like to make a suggestion for lecture topics or a series you'd like to see, please let us know!
- Academic Affairs Lecture Series
- Road to Residency
Pathways to Practice
Women's Empowerment Brunch
Presented by: UCLA/CDU Chapter of the Student National Medical Association (SNMA)
The Women’s Empowerment Brunch is a celebration of Black women in medicine. The event is an exciting opportunity for women in medicine to identify with like-minded individuals, empower others, and facilitate open and honest conversations that will promote personal and professional growth and health advocacy.
It’s important to see women from all levels of their educational journey in one room, especially for any pre-med students who may feel less supported on their campus. They get to see women in front of them who have made it and learn from them. Distinguished MDs come and shed light on how to have the...
