March 17, 2025

A rainbow forms over the UC Irvine campus after recent rains. (Photo by Cynthia Dennis)

UC IRVINE NEWS

New UCI-OC Poll reveals shifting identity attitudes

The School of Social Ecology’s latest UCI-OC Poll surveyed Orange County residents about their ancestry, ethnic/racial identity and views on immigration and found some surprising results. Among them: Half of O.C. residents are second-generation Americans, with one or both of their parents born outside the United States; residents whose parents or grandparents were born abroad are much more likely to identify as Democrats or Independents, whereas those whose relatives were U.S.-born are more likely to identify as Republicans; and a majority of O.C. residents prefer a path to legal status over deportation of undocumented immigrants. “These results depict a deeply diverse Orange County, where generational ties to immigration shape both identity and political views,” said Jon Gould, dean of the School of Social Ecology. “The survey underscores how experiences influence perspectives on issues like immigration policy, highlighting significant differences across racial and ethnic groups. And it's more proof that the O.C. is a truly 'purple' county."

First-gen students prepare for graduate studies in criminology

A new undergraduate leadership initiative will support first-generation and justice-impacted students as they prepare for graduate school. The Next Generation of Crime and Justice Scholars Program’s first cohort includes eight students: (top row, from left) Elijah Guerra, Alejandro Cabrera-Maldonado and Quinea Oard; (middle row, from left) program coordinator Hilda Villadelgado, Angela Sandoval Mejia, Celeste Andrade and Dayana Ramirez-Venegas; and (front row, from left) professor Nancy Rodriguez, Sage Cerda, Angeles Martinez and Aline Nava. “The students in the program are dedicated to using research to solve some of the most complex social problems, like addiction, mental health among young persons and the ineffectiveness of justice system policies,” said Rodriguez, a professor of criminology, law and society, who created the program. “Further, they have rich, valuable life experiences that will significantly enhance knowledge development and policy and practice.”

Heart disease is the No.1 killer of U.S. men and women, with one person dying every 33 seconds. But small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing your risk of heart disease. Better nutrition is one of the simplest, most impactful changes you can make. UCI Health’s Live Well blog has curated some delicious recipes to support a healthful diet, including one for black bean chocolate truffles.

UC NEWS

Federal funding update

Last week, University of California President Michael Drake traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for UC priorities with federal policymakers – including Democrats and Republicans across the California congressional delegation – and other key partners. Drake’s meetings focused on the importance of federally funded research, educational access and affordability, and the healthcare enterprise. The visit coincided with a Tuesday announcement of layoffs by the U.S. Department of Education. These job cuts may have a significant impact on the University of California system, our K-12 partners and the individuals we serve, and we are continuing to evaluate and plan for how we will mitigate these impacts.

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