Bruin Highlight: Past, Present & Future 
This December 2024 we are highlighting Native Bruin Gabriel A Montoya from the Ohkay Owingeh nation, class of 2011 with a major in American Indian Studies.Gabriel A. Montoya is a professional video editor residing in Simi Valley, California, alongside his wife Nikki and daughter Eireann. His experience in video editing includes collaborations with various film studios to promote their latest releases, as well as editing an array of short films, commercials, sizzles, interviews, and branded content. Although his degree in American Indian Studies may not appear directly relevant to his profession, it enables him to enhance the representation of American Indian culture through visual storytelling. He believes that every opportunity is significant and endeavors to create a positive impact whenever possible. Furthermore, he co-hosts and co-created a podcast and website dedicated to themed entertainment, where they explore, review, and discuss various themed events across Southern California.
“Reflecting on my experiences, I am exceptionally fortunate to have discovered my Native Bruin family at UCLA. I’m continually reminded of how my time as a student facilitated my journey toward embracing my Native identity. I’m grateful to the numerous individuals in AISA and my Professors who contributed to shaping my comprehension of Native culture, which in turn allowed me to better understand my own identity.”