Summit Videos
Summit Videos
In an era defined by rapid technological advances and profound societal change, storytelling remains a powerful force for connection.
The 2026 Strategic Communications Bar Raiser Summit focused on how we can lead — and thrive — in our roles. From grounding in emotional wellness to finding tips for leveraging AI, we explored both inspirational talks and practical strategies to elevate UCLA’s storytelling across our community and beyond.
The Bar Raiser Summit is where ideas spark action, collaboration drives positive change and we redefine the power of storytelling at UCLA. Click on each video below to watch sessions from the 2026 summit.
Welcome remarks
Solo Talk
6:56
In her opening remarks, VC Mary Osako reflects on a year of challenge, using the metaphor of a “worry stone” to illustrate how resilience is built over time — and encourages UCLA communicators to consider how thoughtful storytelling can be an act of leadership.
Community-based Research and Building Authentic Connections
Fireside chat
36:15
This fireside chat between social justice advocate and adjunct professor of social welfare Jorja Leap (’78, ’80, ’88) and Barbra Ramos, assistant director of media relations, highlights how education, community presence and ethical engagement drive meaningful, community-based research — and how those learnings can translate into storytelling.
Designing Your AI Copilot
Solo presentation
28:41
In this hands-on session, UCLA lecturer Rob Carpenter discusses how to build and use an AI copilot, positioning AI as a rapidly evolving tool that amplifies speed, output and capability across roles. He demonstrates how structured prompts, shared inputs and iterative refinement can create consistent, high-quality communications at scale.
The TikTok Test
Fireside chat
24:29
In this session, Ricky Horne, assistant director of communications for UCLA Student Affairs, and Bruin alum and social content creator Kelsey Dempsey (‘22) highlight the importance of timeliness, authenticity and human connection in engaging Gen Z social media audiences.
Self-Care for Campus Storytellers
Solo presentation
29:00
UCLA CORE program director Dr. Drea Letamendi introduces narrative self-care as a practical, hopeful framework for navigating uncertainty, encouraging participants to move beyond symptom management toward meaning, connection and personal agency in their own stories.
Leadership & Bruin Excellence
Fireside chat
38:57
In a conversation with UCLA Magazine senior copywriter and editor Delan Bruce, Manager of the LA Dodgers Dave Roberts (‘95) shares the leadership principles he learned as a Bruin that have shaped his success with the Los Angeles Dodgers — excellence, accountability and sustaining a championship culture.