The University of California, Los Angeles has announced a $4.3 million commitment from the Santa Monica-based Emmett Foundation in support of initiatives at the Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at UCLA Law.

The gift, which builds on a decade of support from Dan and Rae Emmett, includes a direct distribution of $1.8 million and a donor challenge. According to the terms of the commitment, the foundation will match on a one-to-one basis gifts made by other donors up to an additional $2.5 million. When fully met, the match is expected to generate $6.8 million for the Emmett Institute, enabling it to expand faculty-driven research on environmental governance and policy at the state, federal, and international levels; scholarships for environmental law students; and fellowships for graduates who pursue public interest work in environmental law.

"The Emmett Institute is addressing our unprecedented environmental challenges at a time when the federal government is retreating from its role as a responsible steward," said Dan Emmett. "This work is more important than ever. Our goal is to see the institute continue to develop innovative solutions and produce advocates dedicated to advancing responsible environmental policy. We've offered the match because we believe other donors will see the need and are ready to help the cause."

(Photo credit: Todd Cheney)