BridgeUSA

In 2017, first-year pre-med student @ManuMeel_ ’20 was dismayed by a protest on the Berkeley campus that turned violent and disrupted an event with a controversial speaker. Motivated by a desire to strengthen America by overcoming our divisions, Meel pivoted to study political science and, with his friend Ross Irwin and some fellow undergraduates, created a space where students could engage with each other respectfully. What began as BridgeBerkeley soon spread to dozens of colleges and became @BridgeUSA_, a multipartisan nationwide organization that combats political division by cultivating dialogue. The organization has empowered more than 60,000 students in its effort to move past political polarization, honor diverse perspectives, and bridge differences using constructive conversation. Meel is this year's recipient of the Peter E. Haas Public Service Award, which recognizes an alum who has made significant and impactful contributions to society through volunteering. The award will be presented at this year’s Spring Commencement. #UCBerkeley #PublicService #CalGrad