From the Dean

Dear UCLA School of Nursing Alumni,

I’m excited to send you this special invitation to join us as we explore the island of Cuba, a resplendent tropical island unlike any other in the Caribbean. It is a country of picturesque colonial towns and magnificent 20th-century architecture, a country of spectacularly beautiful landscapes, an intriguing Afro-Cuban culture and a vibrant music, dance and art scene.

Through the UCLA Alumni Association and in the company of our nursing alumni, we’ll unravel the richness of Cuban culture and allow the group to meet professionals from all walks of contemporary Cuban life, as well as explore several aspects of healthcare on the island. The School of Nursing departure is scheduled for Feb. 12-20, 2013.

The trip begins with five days in Havana, where in addition to meeting with a leading economist and architectural historian, we will have special opportunities to interact with different healthcare providers to learn more about how they provide their services, including a visit to the Leonor Pérez Maternity Home to speak with staff members who work to reduce risks common in pregnancy. We’ll also stop at a senior center to meet with both staff and residents about care for the elderly.

Then, drive east to the Cienfuegos and Trinidad area to explore and meet residents of this living museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will tour a local medical clinic outside of Trinidad and speak with staff about how they can offer their services on limited means to a population of about 1,500 people. After two nights, return to Havana for a final night before returning to Los Angeles.

Throughout this licensed program, discussions with economists, artists, educators and historians will allow travelers to gain an insight into life in Cuba today.

I have personally traveled to Cuba, and can tell you it is a place worth visiting. Because of the pre-trip interest in this destination, this trip will sell out immediately. We encourage you to book today!

Sincerely,

Courtney H. Lyder, ND, ScD(Hon), FAAN
Dean and Assistant Director
UCLA School of Nursing, UCLA Health System
Professor of Nursing, Geriatric Medicine & Public Health
Executive Director, UCLA Health System Patient Safety Institute

For further information, please contact UCLA Alumni Travel at 310-206-0613 or travel@alumni.ucla.edu.