Catherine Baker updates on UC Student and Policy Center's first year in Sacramento

In the heart of Sacramento, a vibrant hub of policy-making and student engagement is taking shape at the University of California's Student and Policy Center. During a recent meeting, Catherine Baker, the center's inaugural director, shared an inspiring update on its progress and future ambitions, marking nearly a year since its opening.

Baker, who has a rich background in public service as a former California state assembly member, emphasized the center's mission to foster constructive dialogue and showcase UC's innovative research. The center, located just steps from the State Capitol, has become a vital space for engagement between the university and California's legislative community.

Over the past year, the center has hosted a series of successful events, including the California Leader Speaker Series, which features bipartisan discussions with prominent political figures. These events have drawn crowds of 150 to 200 attendees, showcasing the growing interest in policy discourse among students and community members alike. Notable speakers have included Assembly Republican leader James Gallagher and former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, providing students with unparalleled access to influential leaders.

Baker highlighted the California Economic Futures Forum as a signature event that brought together legislators, business leaders, and students to discuss the state's economic landscape. This sold-out conference featured the UCLA Anderson forecast, a respected analysis of California's economy, and underscored the center's role in bridging academic research with real-world policy discussions.

The center's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its efforts to welcome all UC campuses, facilitating numerous briefings and advocacy days for students. Baker noted the importance of creating a "public square" where diverse viewpoints can be shared, fostering a culture of civic engagement.

As the center looks ahead, it aims to strengthen partnerships within the Sacramento policy ecosystem, ensuring that UC's expertise is readily available to those shaping California's future. With its dynamic programming and strategic location, the UC Student and Policy Center is poised to become a cornerstone of public service and policy innovation in the state.