A spirited cross-section of the Bruin family came together during Homecoming & Parents’ Weekend, Oct. 25-27, celebrating UCLA’s tradition as a world-class university. Nearly 3,000 parents and siblings of new students participated, joined by Pioneer Bruins from the campus’ earliest days, alumni celebrating milestone reunions and current students, faculty and staff.

Tradition, said Keith Brant, executive director of the UCLA Alumni Association and assistant vice chancellor for Alumni Relations, was at the heart of the event.

“It’s a chance for students and alumni to remember that UCLA is an ongoing saga — past, present and future — and that they are a part of it,” he said. “This is what connects all generations of Bruins.”

The weekend began with a luncheon on Dickson Plaza Friday for families of incoming freshmen and transfer students. The guests were welcomed by Robin Carnesale, the wife of Chancellor Albert Carnesale, followed by Provost Brian Copenhaver’s overview of the innovative undergraduate curriculum at the College of Letters & Science. Later in the day, guests attended faculty presentations highlighting UCLA’s cultural and academic offerings, after which Chancellor and Mrs. Carnesale hosted a reception at The Chancellor’s Residence.

That evening, the families were among thousands of spectators for the Homecoming Parade and Spirit Rally — a campus tradition dating back to 1933. Revived after a six-year hiatus, the parade featured the UCLA Bruin Marching Band, student-designed floats and dance troupes.

Saturday began with a breakfast presentation by Athletic Director Dan Guerrero, followed by visits to campus museums and the Hall of Fame and a trip to the Rose Bowl for the chancellor’s pregame party and a victorious UCLA vs. Stanford Homecoming game.

The weekend also spotlighted Founders’ Day and the 76th anniversary of the Westwood campus dedication. The tradition was marked by a keynote address by UCLA neurosurgeon Jorge Lazareff, a leader of the medical team responsible for separating the conjoined twin girls from Guatemala. Lazareff, the doctors, nurses and other medical professionals on the team received a resounding ovation.

Wrapping up the weekend were campuswide alumni events including faculty lectures and campus tours, culminating with reunion parties for the Classes of 1941-42, ’52, ’77, ’82, ’87 and ’92.

The weekend sparked pride among even the newest Bruins. As Stephen Trattner, father of freshman Karen, observed, “It’s a really enjoyable, nice thing to do — a chance to interact and find out more about what’s going on at the university. It’s a very warm feeling being around other members of the UCLA family.”