March 11, 2026
Dear Cal alums, parents, and friends,
Shortly after the 2024 election, Berkeley Law alums who defend undocumented immigrants approached the Criminal Law & Justice Center (CLJC) about responding to the expected increase in detentions in an already overburdened system. At lightning speed, the Immigration Liberation Practicum was born, and student interest surged. Ten students were selected for the first semester last fall, and seven are continuing this spring.
“They’re doing the work of lawyers, right now, for people whose lives and families depend on it,” said Chesa Boudin, executive director of the CLJC. Partnering with local activists to connect with people who had been detained, the group helped five immigrants at different stages in the detention process in just the first semester.
Student Ami Santillan said she is learning practical legal skills, including research and persuasive writing, while also making a difference. Her most memorable experience was seeing a client released from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody in time for the birth of his child the following week. “I will never forget the moment when we were informed that our client was released,” she said. “Relief, joy, and empowerment.”
This is exactly the kind of impactful program and transformative student experience that Big Give, our annual one-day fundraising event, supports.
Tomorrow, on March 12, I invite you to shine a light on your favorite Cal causes. Whether you are passionate about a particular school or college, athletics or the arts, student groups or excellence in research, this is your chance to illuminate your corner of campus. Simply visit biggive.berkeley.edu before 9 p.m. tomorrow. In particular, follow the special contests and matches throughout the day that will help the programs you care about benefit from extra funds.
One day. … One Berkeley community. … A tradition of generosity with a legacy of impact. This is Big Give. From the spark of a life-changing scholarship to the foundational support that fuels peerless research and thoughtful community action, Big Give transforms countless lives. Join thousands of alums, students, parents, and friends in making a gift and adding your light to the constellation. Write your story in Berkeley's stars.
Go Bears!
Chancellor Rich Lyons
Shortly after the 2024 election, Berkeley Law alums who defend undocumented immigrants approached the Criminal Law & Justice Center (CLJC) about responding to the expected increase in detentions in an already overburdened system. At lightning speed, the Immigration Liberation Practicum was born, and student interest surged. Ten students were selected for the first semester last fall, and seven are continuing this spring.
“They’re doing the work of lawyers, right now, for people whose lives and families depend on it,” said Chesa Boudin, executive director of the CLJC. Partnering with local activists to connect with people who had been detained, the group helped five immigrants at different stages in the detention process in just the first semester.
Student Ami Santillan said she is learning practical legal skills, including research and persuasive writing, while also making a difference. Her most memorable experience was seeing a client released from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody in time for the birth of his child the following week. “I will never forget the moment when we were informed that our client was released,” she said. “Relief, joy, and empowerment.”
This is exactly the kind of impactful program and transformative student experience that Big Give, our annual one-day fundraising event, supports.
Tomorrow, on March 12, I invite you to shine a light on your favorite Cal causes. Whether you are passionate about a particular school or college, athletics or the arts, student groups or excellence in research, this is your chance to illuminate your corner of campus. Simply visit biggive.berkeley.edu before 9 p.m. tomorrow. In particular, follow the special contests and matches throughout the day that will help the programs you care about benefit from extra funds.
One day. … One Berkeley community. … A tradition of generosity with a legacy of impact. This is Big Give. From the spark of a life-changing scholarship to the foundational support that fuels peerless research and thoughtful community action, Big Give transforms countless lives. Join thousands of alums, students, parents, and friends in making a gift and adding your light to the constellation. Write your story in Berkeley's stars.
Go Bears!
Chancellor Rich Lyons
Chancellor’s Choice
Iranian Cinema: From Aesthetics to Politics — See digital restorations of three classic films associated with the Iranian New Wave movement. In addition, director and screenwriter Rakhshan Banietemad will present two documentaries that focus on the environment and the power of women to change society, as well as two feature films. Get tickets to this timely series, running at BAMPFA through April 23.
Panel: The Value and Future of UC Art Education — “Open Inquiry: UC Arts” features two decades of work by students and alums of the renowned arts programs at UC Berkeley, UC Davis, and UCLA. Explore the exhibition, then hear leaders from all three universities discuss UC’s role as a hub for emerging artists and creative research. RSVP for the panel on Sunday, March 22, 1–3 p.m., at the Sausalito Center for the Arts.
Cal Night with the San Francisco Giants — Join students, faculty, and alums at Oracle Park on Friday, April 24. Oski, the Cal Band, and the Cal Spirit Squad will kickstart the evening in Willie Mays Plaza at 5 p.m. The Giants will play the Miami Marlins at 7:15 p.m. Golden Bears receive discounted tickets, a roped hat and flag (while supplies last), and seating in a designated section.
Panel: The Value and Future of UC Art Education — “Open Inquiry: UC Arts” features two decades of work by students and alums of the renowned arts programs at UC Berkeley, UC Davis, and UCLA. Explore the exhibition, then hear leaders from all three universities discuss UC’s role as a hub for emerging artists and creative research. RSVP for the panel on Sunday, March 22, 1–3 p.m., at the Sausalito Center for the Arts.
Cal Night with the San Francisco Giants — Join students, faculty, and alums at Oracle Park on Friday, April 24. Oski, the Cal Band, and the Cal Spirit Squad will kickstart the evening in Willie Mays Plaza at 5 p.m. The Giants will play the Miami Marlins at 7:15 p.m. Golden Bears receive discounted tickets, a roped hat and flag (while supplies last), and seating in a designated section.