The Luskin Center is not only devoted to producing a new mode of research that brings historical depth to issues of policy relevance and urgency.  We are also deeply committed to marshaling the exceptional talents of student researchers, both undergraduate and graduate.  At the same time, we are intent on examining critically our own university environment, especially in the wake of the call for self-reckoning that followed the murder of George Floyd in May 2020.

In this spirit, we are pleased to launch a suite of three new LCHP research reports, all of which have been spearheaded by UCLA graduate and undergraduate students.  The first paper explores the stunning rise and longer-term consequences of contingent academic labor in the University of California system. The second is devoted to the history of race and racism at UCLA, focusing on forgotten personalities and chapters now brought to the light of day.  The third report took rise in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and investigates how UCLA responded to past crises of major scale.

As a whole, these reports offer a much-needed critical and constructive perspective on the institution that we call home. It is our hope that a thorough and honest exploration can show the path to a better and more just UCLA community.  As always, we welcome your feedback and input on this important body of research.