The Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs at Cal State LA is a nonpartisan, presidentially charted institute dedicated to the quest for social justice and equity, enlightened civic engagement, and an enhanced quality of life for all Californians.
Former California Governor Pat Brown brought the Institute to Cal State LA in 1987. Today, the Institute seeks to sustain the vision and legacy of Governor Brown by promoting civic and community engagement; helping to advance an inclusive public policy; connecting with and energizing the Next Generation; and serving as a thought leader on vital issues for the region and the state.
Our Mission
Unleashing the Power of Participation
As a nonpartisan organization, our programs are designed to foster community engagement, raise awareness about timely policy issues, bring public officials closer to their constituents, and support Cal State LA’s mission to serve as an anchor institution for the region. As a university- based center, research informs all our initiatives.
The Board of Advisors offers guidance to the Pat Brown Institute.
The Executive Director leads the Pat Brown Institute’s operations and initiatives.
The staff supports the Pat Brown Institute's programs and operations.
PB's legacy is defined by his commitment to public service, education, and social justice.
The mission of the Pat Brown Institute is to advance public policy through research, education, and civic engagement.
The Pat Brown Institute was founded to honor Governor Edmund G. "Pat" Brown’s legacy of public service and to foster leadership in public policy.
California State University, Los Angeles is the premier public comprehensive university in the heart of Los Angeles. As an anchor institution in the region, Cal State LA supports the academic, personal, and professional success of its student body of about 27,000. In 2017, Cal State LA received recognition as the top university in the United States for upward mobility, “propelling students to the top rungs of the economic ladder.”
