Thomas Poon, Ph.D.

While studying statistics and data science, and computer science at LMU, Gavin Butts ’25 blended his academic interests in Seaver College of Science and Engineering with his passion for social justice. He hopes to one day use what he’s learned inside the classroom to explore AI ethics and research other social justice causes, including how AI can be used for prison reform.

Empowered by her triple majors in business, marketing, and environmental studies, and LMU’s mission, recent LMU graduate Andrea Payre Madrigal ‘25 has been empowered to raise awareness about environmental justice and turn values into real-world impact. She hopes to focus on developing her skills to help communities stay resilient in the face of climate change.

LMU dance professor Rosalynde “Roz” LeBlanc supports students as they shape their futures, not only by refining their technical craft but by cultivating connections and encouraging them to be changemakers in the field. She inspires them to learn from each other, both on and offstage, fostering a collaborative ethos that dancers take with them when they graduate.

Ignacio Companions’ trips provide students with an opportunity to be fully immersed in diverse communities across the world, reflecting on their faith and broadening their horizons. Through these faith-based service trips, students discover how to best combat injustice in the world and are motivated to work towards a future where we can all live in solidarity.

After taking a first-year seminar focused on Latino communities in L.A., Elias Herrera ‘26 was motivated to continue his education outside the classroom through an internship at Inclusive Action for the City. Inspired by the long history of social activism in many of these communities, he hopes to pursue social entrepreneurship where he can ignite positive social change through business.

Demian Willette, associate professor of biology, and his students use the university’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and urban parks to collect environmental DNA with the goal of combating illegal fishing and protecting vulnerable landscapes. Their research transforms L.A. coasts and green spaces into living laboratories where cutting-edge science creates tangible solutions for environmental conservation.