Empowering Future Leaders through Strategic Engagement
Since its founding in 1891, the University of La Verne has dedicated itself to fostering a diverse community of students, preparing them for impactful careers and meaningful contributions to society. Our mission is guided by four core values: Ethical Reasoning, Diversity & Inclusivity, Lifelong Learning, and Civic and Community Engagement. These principles shape our educational approach and drive our commitment to excellence.
Our Mission
At the University of La Verne, Government Relations is pivotal in bridging the gap between our institution and the broader community. We build and nurture relationships with local, state, and federal government officials, civic organizations, and community stakeholders to advance our core values and institutional goals.
What We Do
- Lead Engagement with Elected Officials and Government Agencies: Our office takes the lead in cultivating and maintaining productive relationships with elected officials and government agencies. We actively advocate for policies and initiatives that benefit the University and align with our strategic objectives, ensuring our voice is heard in key legislative and regulatory discussions.
- Advocacy & Policy Monitoring: We actively monitor and influence policies and regulatory proposals that could impact our university. Our team engages in legislative advocacy to ensure that our interests and objectives are represented at all levels of government.
- Partnerships & Funding: Collaborating closely with faculty and staff, we identify and pursue funding opportunities to support the development of innovative academic programs. Our goal is to enhance educational offerings and drive institutional growth.
- Community Engagement: By fostering strong connections with civic organizations and community residents, we work to enhance the university’s impact and visibility within the community.
- Expand Our Role as an Anchor Institution: We aim to deepen our involvement and expand our influence within the community. As a prominent anchor institution, we leverage our resources and expertise to contribute positively to local development and address community needs, reinforcing our commitment to civic engagement and societal impact.
Why It Matters
Our efforts in Government Relations are crucial for sustaining and advancing the University of La Verne’s mission. By engaging with policymakers and community leaders, we ensure that our core values are reflected in the broader societal and legislative landscape, paving the way for continued success and growth.
Explore how Government Relations at the University of La Verne supports our commitment to excellence and how we are shaping the future through strategic engagement and advocacy.
Contact UsLoading  Chief Government Relations Officer
La Verne / Hanawalt House
Dr. Zuhey Espinoza is the Associate Vice President and Chief Government Relations Officer at the University of La Verne, where she plays a pivotal role in managing local, state, and federal policy initiatives and fostering valuable partnerships. Zuhey’s impactful leadership has resulted in the successful acquisition of $11 million in funding for the University. Prior to her role at the University of La Verne, Zuhey served as the Director of Policy and Government Relations at California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA). Zuhey’s diverse professional background includes serving as a Field Deputy to former LA County Board Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, providing crucial constituent services and outreach to the West Valley and Mountain Communities. She also completed a Coro Fellowship in Los Angeles, collaborating with various impactful organizations and businesses such as the UCLA Labor Center, Southern California Gas Company, American Diabetes Association, State Senator Carol Liu, Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), and the Port of Los Angeles. Zuhey holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from UCLA, a Master of Arts in Public and International Affairs from the University of Ottawa in Canada, and a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Chicano Studies from Loyola Marymount University. Her research interests focus on anchor institutions reflected in her authored works, “The Geography of Community” and co-authored articles like “Purpose-Driven Partnerships That Transform People and Places.” |