Alumni Spotlights

Kareena Dhillon is a human rights and social impact professional whose work bridges community-based service with global advocacy. She earned her B.A. in Global Studies at UC Santa Barbara, where an emphasis on intersectional history, language, and global systems shaped her commitment to justice-driven nonprofit work. Through hands-on engagement with youth advocacy and human rights organizations in the Santa Barbara community, particularly her work with Freedom 4 Youth, Kareena developed a deep understanding of equity, systems, and the power of community-centered solutions. That foundation guided her toward leadership roles across Southern California’s nonprofit and policy spaces, where she now works at the intersection of human rights, social impact, and international engagement. Kareena currently serves as one of the youngest nominated board members of the United Nations Association in Orange County and as Director of Human Rights and Social Impact for Young Professionals in Foreign Policy, collaborating with emerging leaders committed to principled, nonpartisan service. Across her work, she remains grounded in the belief that meaningful change begins with listening, showing up consistently, and investing in community.

Dustin Weissman, PsyD is a clinical psychologist and leader in the field of mental health whose work centers on technology use, digital behavior, and community-based advocacy. He earned his B.A. in Psychology at UC Santa Barbara after entering undeclared, where formative classes shaped both his academic direction and confidence as a speaker. As an undergraduate, Dr. Weissman gained early clinical exposure through training at Sanctuary Psychiatric Center and later through hands-on support work with adults with developmental disabilities, experiences that solidified his commitment to psychology beyond the classroom. After UCSB, he pursued graduate training at Antioch University, where his research focused on online role-playing games and social interaction at a time when digital psychology was still an emerging field. Dr Weissman’s career has since grown at the intersection of clinical practice, research, and professional leadership. He has become a recognized voice in conversations around video game addiction, internet use, and mental health, presenting nationally—including at the prestigious Evolution of Psychotherapy conference. Now serving as President of the California Psychological Association, Dr. Weissman continues to advocate for ethical practice, patient protection, and professional community, drawing on the foundation of curiosity, leadership, and engagement that began during his time at UC Santa Barbara.

Justin Tipping is a film and television director whose work blends emotional honesty with bold, genre-bending storytelling. He earned his B.A. in Film & Media Studies at UC Santa Barbara, where a mix of film theory, Italian cinema, and cultural analysis courses sparked his passion for understanding how media shapes society. That foundation guided him into a career defined by thoughtful, character-driven stories. After graduating, Justin worked his way into the industry from the ground up: freelancing in videography, taking any set job he could find, and eventually earning his M.F.A. in directing from the American Film Institute. His graduate work earned a Student Academy Award and launched him into professional directing across television and film. Justin’s projects often draw from personal experience, exploring themes of identity, grief, masculinity, and ambition. His recent feature HIM reflects his interest in the psychological cost of greatness and the emotional complexity behind high-pressure environments. He continues to develop new work in both television and feature film and remains connected to UCSB as an alum whose creative foundation began on campus.

Katya Armistead is the Co–Executive Director of Programs at Leading From Within, a Santa Barbara–based nonprofit dedicated to developing and supporting local leaders across sectors. She earned her B.A. in Sociology and Ed.D. from UC Santa Barbara, where her fascination with people and group dynamics sparked a lifelong commitment to community engagement and education. After graduating, she built a 35–year career at UCSB, serving in roles including Director of the Visitor Center, Dean of Student Life, and Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. Throughout her tenure, she championed student leadership, civic engagement, and inclusive campus culture. A former Katherine Harvey Fellow, Katya now helps others discover their leadership potential through mentorship and service. She continues to stay connected to UCSB as an alum and elected county school board trustee, modeling her belief that authentic leadership begins with service to others.

Justin Fogarty is the co-founder of Talk A Mile, a program that fosters dialogue between young people and law enforcement to build understanding and community. He earned his B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies from UC Santa Barbara, where his passion for the environment and diverse perspectives shaped his approach to leadership and civic engagement. Inspired by the 2020 protests, Justin and his family launched Talk A Mile to elevate youth voices and create meaningful conversations around public safety. Since its launch, the program has engaged hundreds of participants and multiple cities, aiming to deepen and widen its impact.

Of all the Hollywood clichés, perhaps the oldest is “What I really want to do is direct.” You hear it from actors, writers, cinematographers, even interns in the mailroom. Andy Jurgensen ’04 is a notable exception. The 43-year-old UC Santa Barbara alum finds deep satisfaction in a different role, one he finds intellectually stimulating and creatively fulfilling: film editor.