DIRECTOR’S WELCOME

 I am honored to serve as Director of the Luskin Center for History and Policy for the 2026-27 academic year. My work over the past fifteen years, in early modern history and as a public historian, is anchored to the idea that history matters. An historical perspective is essential to understanding society’s most pressing problems, be those political, economic or social. I strongly believe that history is a form of justice. The stories that we tell inform us of who we are, making history an essential tool for both inclusion and exclusion. History is not simple. As professional historians, it is our job to communicate history in all of its messiness and nuance, and to represent diverse voices, even when they contradict one another.

Over the next year, the LCHP will be engaged in a number of exciting initiatives as we carry out our mission to bring historical knowledge, perspective, and analysis to bear on key contemporary issues.

  • This year, our research fellowships focus on the theme of “monuments.” We are sponsoring teams of academics and practitioners to address policy issues related broadly to commemoration.
  • Leading up to the 2026 elections, and with a generous grant from the Haynes Foundation, we are partnering with the Los Angeles History Collaborative to hold a public event and produce an academic report and series of videos on the history of democracy in Los Angeles.
  • Our podcast will continue to bring historical expertise to public audiences, connecting history to a range of issues in the public interest.
  • Our public events series will provide opportunities for historians and policymakers to have conversations about how the past shapes the present, and to learn from one another.

We are living in a moment when history is being increasingly politicized. No matter which side of the political spectrum we are speaking to, we will continue to insist on evidence-based interpretations of the past as a path toward a better future. I look forward to leading the Luskin Center as we bring historical expertise to public audiences.

 

Warmly,

Tawny Paul

Director, UCLA Luskin Center for History and Policy

Director, UCLA Public History Initiative