Gratitude for the UCLA Health Community

December 16, 2020

Dear UCLA Health Community,

At the close of one of the most challenging years in recent memory, we wanted to take a moment to send you a note of gratitude.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit California this spring, it required much of UCLA to scale back operations for the greater good. But you all had to scale up, establishing emergency operations centers and putting in incredibly long hours to fight against a disease that has affected Los Angeles and the world so profoundly.

Over the past nine months, UCLA Health caregivers treated hundreds of patients who contracted the SARS-CoV-2 virus. You tested more than 120,000 others. You made UCLA Health a hub of information and resources related to combatting the pandemic. Along the way, you navigated huge shifts in the way you approach your work, provide treatment of any kind and even safely interact with loved ones.

We want to thank all of our UCLA Health physicians, nurses, residents, staff, students and volunteers for your remarkable efforts over such a long period of time. This year has asked so much of you. But your response to the pandemic is a testament to UCLA’s importance in the greater Los Angeles community and to the power of our public service mission. The University of California exists to serve all of California, not just those who enroll as undergraduates or those who sponsor our research. You all bring this service mission to life in some of the most tangible and visible ways.

While it is undoubtedly frustrating to see the latest surge in cases and hospitalizations this many months into the pandemic, we believe that the development of COVID-19 vaccines holds great promise for 2021. Thank you again for your sacrifices, every day and especially at this moment. UCLA is heeding the call when our city and state need it most, and that is thanks to your dedication, commitment and courage.

Here’s to a bright year ahead — Fiat Lux.

Sincerely,

Gene D. Block

Chancellor

Emily A. Carter

Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost