Jim Rinaldi

Executive Director, Innovate@UCLA

End of Year Message from the Executive Director

As we close out 2025, I want to express my sincere appreciation to each of you—our members, sponsors, partners, and the UCLA community—for your outstanding support and participation throughout the year. Despite a difficult beginning with the Southern California wildfires impacting many across our community, we came together, supported one another, and strengthened the foundation of Innovate@UCLA for the future.

Our organization has had an extraordinary year of programming—shaped by the passion, talent, and collaboration of our members and committees. We explored the transformative power of AI, highlighted emerging technologies changing every industry, and shared strategies to navigate times of uncertainty with confidence and innovation. Each event reflected the dynamic and resilient spirit of this community.

The Young Tech Professionals (YTP) program continues to thrive as a unique and ambitious leadership pathway, fueled by the mentorship and involvement of our members. ELAD once again delivered as our premier celebration of executive excellence—honoring those who lead with vision, courage, and impact.

I want to extend a special thank-you to our Innovate@UCLA Board and our CEO Advisory Board. Your guidance, commitment, and bold ideas play a defining role in shaping our direction and expanding our mission. Because of you, Innovate@UCLA continues to push boundaries and elevate what is possible for our members and the broader UCLA ecosystem.

Looking back, we can be proud. This 47-year-old organization is stronger than ever—deeply rooted in its purpose while evolving to anticipate and shape the future. Innovate@UCLA has more to give and more to achieve, and that momentum will carry us powerfully into 2026.

As we prepare for the year ahead, we will continue to deliver exceptional value, foster meaningful collaboration, and create opportunities that accelerate innovation across Southern California and beyond.

Thank you again to our members, sponsors, our Board leadership, and UCLA for your unwavering partnership and belief in what we are building together.

Here’s to a successful 2026—and warmest Holiday wishes to you and your families!