Dr. Michael V. Drake, President of the University of California, spoke at the 9th annual Winston Doby Lecture hosted by the Academic Advancement Program (AAP) on Thursday, February 22. 

Drake’s keynote address highlighted Dr. Doby’s ongoing legacy. Dr. Doby, a longtime champion for diversity and equity, founded AAP during his tenure at UCLA. The program continues to provide academic support and resources for first-generation college students, students from low-income families, and students from historically underrepresented communities.

Throughout the address, Drake emphasized the importance of active listening to develop a deep understanding of other’s perspectives – only with this deep understanding can we create pathways to a more equitable future. 

During a moderated conversation with Dr. Adriana Galván, Dean of Undergraduate Education, Drake highlighted the impact of AAP’s work to continue illuminating the path forward for historically underrepresented students at UCLA.