Eco-Friendly Glue Designed by Cal Poly, Geisys Researchers Earns Industry ‘Innovation Award’
An eco-friendly glue product created by a chemistry team in partnership with an East Coast research and development company has earned a national award as one of the top three innovations from the adhesive and sealant industry. D-Glue — a debondable adhesive platform created by chemistry Professor Phil Costanzo in partnership with the Massachusetts-based Geisys Ventures — earned the second runner-up 2024 Innovation Award presented by the Adhesives and Sealants Council (ASC) in Louisville, Kentucky. The third-place award was announced April 16 at the council’s Annual Convention and EXPO. ASC’s innovation awards are given to those who significantly impact chemistries “that contribute to downstream industries’ unmet needs and advancements in technology.” D-Glue was designed with Cal Poly student research and development involvement over the past few years and now is a patented, commercial product.
Campus to Host 38th CSU Student Research Competition April 26-27
Cal Poly will host the CSU Student Research Competition Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27. The competition is an annual event bringing together scholars from the 23 CSU campuses. The competition showcases undergraduate and graduate research, scholarship and creative works by recognizing outstanding student accomplishments across the campuses, which stretch from Arcata to San Diego. Delegate presentations by current CSU students and recent alumni during the competition are open to the campus and the public, as are all associated events. The campus hosted the 31st annual event in 2017. Cal Poly has 22 students participating this year in 10 presentations; six as teams and four individuals doing solo presentations. Questions? Email CSUresearchcomp2024@calpoly.edu.
Summer Course Registration Opens
Cal Poly has increased summer course offerings to ensure students have options to catch up or get ahead on their degree. Four different sessions from all six colleges are being offered, making it simple for students to complete additional coursework without enrolling elsewhere or worrying about submitting transcripts. Registration for summer opens Wednesday, April 24, and financial aid is available.
Learn more about Summer at Cal Poly
Submissions Sought for Outstanding Student Employee Award; Deadline is May 3
The Outstanding Student Employee of the Year Committee is seeking nominations for outstanding Cal Poly student employees for the 2023-24 academic year. The deadline for submissions is Friday, May 3. The OSEY award recognizes outstanding contributions and achievements of students who work while attending college and contribute to the success of the university. In addition, two runners-up will be selected. All campus student employees are eligible. Faculty and staff may nominate more than one student. The National Association of Colleges and Employers core competencies fact sheet may help with each submission. Send one-page nomination letters, preferably on Cal Poly department letterhead, to af@calpoly.edu. Questions? Contact af@calpoly.edu.
Campus Invited to Inaugural Learn by Doing Good Awards Ceremony May 1
The campus community is invited to celebrate the recipients of the inaugural Learn by Doing Good Awards on Wednesday, May 1. The awards combine Cal Poly’s Community Service and LEAD awards. For 37 years, the Community Service Awards honored students, faculty, staff and community partner agencies for off-campus contributions to the quality of life in San Luis Obispo County and their spirit of civic engagement. For seven years, the LEAD Awards recognized campus members for excellence and distinction in their leadership and engagement at the university. This year students, staff, faculty, student organizations and community partners will be recognized for service, leadership and engagement on and off campus. President Armstrong will bestow the awards in a ceremony at 4 p.m. May 1 in the Performing Arts Center Grand Lobby. Questions? Email serviceinaction@calpoly.edu.
Cal Poly Print and Copy Offers 20% Off Standard Printing Through April 26
Cal Poly Print and Copy is offering staff, faculty and students a 20% discount on standard printing through Friday, April 26. The discount only applies to in-person orders and cannot be used for departmental orders. Cal Poly Print and Copy, in Room D-24 of the Science Building (No. 52), is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Hours are subject to change.
Visit the Cal Poly Print and Copy website for more information
Join Campus Dining, Subway and Miss Vickie’s for ‘Wrappy’ Hour April 25
Lunch is on Campus Dining! On Thursday, April 25, be one of the first to try the four new Subway wraps debuting this month — for free! Subway will hand out free samples while supplies last from its decked-out food trailer in the UU starting at 11 a.m. Among the wraps featured will be the Homestyle Chicken Salad Wrap; Honey Mustard Chicken Wrap; Turkey, Bacon and Avocado Wrap and the vegetarian Cali Caprese. Subway will also be giving away bags of Miss Vickie’s Baja Chipotle Kettle Cooked Chips! Hang out for a bit, grab some swag items and enjoy a variety of games, including cornhole, giant Jenga and ladder ball toss. Capture this moment with a snapshot of the fun in the photo booth. That’s a wrap!
Sociology Professor to Give May 3 Talk on ‘Colorism in the Filipinx Community’
Joanne Rondilla, assistant professor at San José State University, will give a talk titled “Notes on Colorism in the Filipinx Community” on Friday, May 3, at 10:10 a.m. in Fisher Science (No. 33), Room 286. The award-winning sociology educator, whose research interests include colorism, popular culture and media representations, will explore the contours of colorism among the Filipinx community by connecting the colonial history of the Philippines to the role of skin color in families and other intimate spaces. Questions? Contact the Women's, Gender and Queer Studies Department at wgqs@calpoly.edu.
Updated Cal Poly Report Submission Guidelines to Take Effect May 1
To improve Cal Poly Report’s readability and make production of the newsletter more efficient, we are implementing updated guidelines for submissions, effective for the May 1 edition. These include:
- Submissions will be limited to 100 words.
- Items will run only once, except Catastrophic Leave and Employment Opportunity announcements, which may run twice.
- Submissions will be due no later than 5 p.m. the Thursday before publication.
- All submissions should be strictly employee-focused and should link to more information online.
Bailey College’s First Bilingual Magazine Article Published
The Bailey College of Science and Mathematics for the first time features an entire bilingual article in the current issue of Undergraduate Research magazine in an effort to offer more inclusive and barrier-free content. Alumnus Hector Reyes (Psychology, ’23) shared in English and Spanish his first-person perspective on the Nuestra Ciencia program. Faculty leaders of the program, Alejandra Yep (Biological Sciences) and Jasmine Nation (Liberal Studies), say it’s a transformational educational and research partnership program in which Cal Poly students teach microbiology lessons in Spanish to local students in bilingual elementary schools. Reyes’ article showcases inspirational work, and his bilingual narrative helps to advance diversity and inclusion by reaching more readers as the university moves closer to becoming a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. In another first, the Undergraduate Research magazine was printed on paper that has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, which honors sustainable forestry practices and upholds the rights of Indigenous peoples and workers.
Read Reyes’ story and other research tackled by BCSM students and faculty
Help Improve Kennedy Library Website by May 3 and Receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card
Kennedy Library is assessing and improving its website to ensure it supports the community’s needs. The library is conducting a usability study on the search experience of homepage prototypes in active development and is seeking faculty and student users to evaluate the new designs. Participation will take 45-60 minutes and includes completing a short demographic and feedback questionnaires, as well as four task-based scenarios. Community participation is important and will help improve the library website for all users. Participants will receive a $25 Amazon gift card upon completion of the session. Testing ends Friday, May 3. If interested, email Camille Paradis (clparadi@calpoly.edu).
Tours are Back at the Recreation Center
Guided tours are available at the Recreation Center Thursday through Sunday, 1-4 p.m., no reservation needed! Learn more about the state-of-the-art facility and the amazing amenities offered. Stop by the Membership Services desk at the front of the Recreation Center to take a tour!
Cal Poly Partners Board of Directors to Meet April 26
Cal Poly Partners board of directors will meet Friday, April 26, at 8:30 a.m. at Vista Grande Dining Complex, third floor. The meeting is open to the public. Written public comments must be emailed by Wednesday, April 24, to cpcadmin@calpoly.edu. People who want to speak on an agenda item must submit a Board Appearance Request at least 24 hours before the meeting to cpcadmin@calpoly.edu. A Zoom webinar is also available. Public comments promptly begin at 8:30 a.m. Speakers need to arrive at 8:15 a.m. More information will be made available on the Cal Poly Partners website along with the meeting agenda five days before the meeting. Questions? Call Holly Clark at ext. 6-1131.
Zoom link for Cal Poly Partners directors meeting
Nominate Campus DEI Leaders for President’s Diversity Awards by April 29
The Office of University Diversity and Inclusion is seeking nominations for the annual Cal Poly President’s Diversity Awards, which recognize individuals and groups who have exhibited commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion on the campus. The deadline for nominations is Monday, April 29, at 5 p.m. Recipients will be honored at June 6 ceremony from 10:30 a.m. to noon in the PAC lobby and courtyard.
President’s Diversity Award categories include:
- Faculty
- Staff
- Student
- Campus Department/Unit
- Student Group/Organization
- Dolores Huerta Si Se Puede Award for Transformational Leadership
- Excellence in Inclusive Design
Recipients of the Group and Dolores Huerta Si Se Puede awards include a $1,000 prize. All other categories include a $500 prize. Pictured are 2023 faculty award recipient School of Education’s Tina Cheuk, center with President Armstrong and Denise Isom, vice president for diversity and inclusion.
Submit DEI Leader nominations Online by April 29
Texas Tech Communication Professor to Discuss Design Thinking and Social Innovation April 29
Jason Tham, associate professor of technical communication and rhetoric and assistant chair of the Department of English at Texas Tech University, will give a talk on design thinking as a mindset and methodology for social innovation Monday, April 29 from 2:10-3:30 p.m. in the Advanced Technologies Lab Building (No. 7). For decades, practitioners across multiple industries have employed design thinking as a technology for innovation that deals with complex issues, also known as “wicked problems.” As a mindset and a methodology, design thinking can promote critical awareness and create socially responsive solutions that aim toward positive changemaking. Tham, who has a doctorate in rhetoric and scientific and technical communication, will discuss design as an activity that involves studying problems, understanding human and environmental needs and devising desirable solutions. Questions? Contact Krista Sarraf, director of the technical and professional communication program.
Kennedy Library Transformation Project Hits Significant Milestones
Significant milestones have been reached in the Kennedy Library transformation project, including the reopening of a California Boulevard parking lot. The delivery of the building's energy-efficient window systems is complete, and the team is preparing for installation. Progress is steady on all levels for the rough-in of mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems, fire sprinkler systems and framing on all floors. Additionally, C-7 parking spaces are available again for staff and faculty. However, there will be a road closure on North Perimeter Road, from Dexter Road to University Drive (on the west and east sides of the library respectively), from Monday, April 15, to Friday, April 26. The closure will facilitate the safe loading of new stair structural steel by a large construction crane. While vehicular access will be restricted, the north sidewalk will remain open for pedestrians.
See the Kennedy Library construction timeline
Award-winning Author to Discuss Mindful Travel in an Unequal World on May 15-16
University of Washington Professor Anu Taranath, an award-winning speaker and author of “Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World,” will appear at the Performing Arts Center Pavilion May 15-16. At her keynote presentation, from 5:30-7 p.m. May 15, she will lead an illuminating conversation on the intersections of travel and social change. A book signing will follow. On May 16, from 11:10 a.m.-1 p.m., faculty and staff are invited to join an interactive workshop. The first 20 registrants will receive a free copy of the book. The events, hosted by the International Center and campus co-sponsors, are free and open to all. In advance of Taranath’s visit, the campus is invited to join the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology’s book circles that begin April 25 and 29. Taranath understands that the most effective conversations on race, identity, power and belonging take place when people feel valued and heard.
For the full listing of International Symposium events and to register
Volunteer to Work at Commencement June 15-16
The Commencement team is seeking staff support to help create memorable celebration experiences for graduates and guests at Commencement 2024 at Spanos Stadium on June 15-16. Volunteers will receive a $60 gift card to the University Store for each shift completed.
Volunteer tasks may include greeting graduates and guests, ensuring guests have access to shuttles, wheelchairs and first aid or helping with stadium logistics and more.
For additional details on faculty and staff shifts, visit the Employee Engagement Program page.
TAPS Receives Best Practices Recognition with Industry Accreditation
Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) was recently approved as an Accredited Parking Organization through the International Parking and Mobility Institute, the world’s largest association of professionals in parking, transportation and mobility. The designation recognizes the effort and best practices that TAPS has in place for responsible parking management and operations, access management, customer service, professional development, security and sustainability. With this designation, TAPS demonstrates its commitment to ongoing evaluation and improvement of program outcomes through the implementation of industry best practices. The accreditation is the result of a yearlong collaborative team effort. TAPS Director Marlene Cramer will attend the 2024 IPMI Conference and Expo in Columbus, Ohio, in June to receive Cal Poly’s official designation.
Safer Events Hosts Denim Day, Take Back the Night to Promote Safety April 24-25
Safer’s Sexual Assault Action Month, themed Rise Up, Resist, Reclaim, continues through April. Faculty and staff are invited to join Safer to wrap up its monthlong campaign at two major events:
Denim Day Reception, Wednesday, April 24, 8-10 a.m. in the Campus Health and Wellbeing downstairs patio (No. 27). Show support for survivors by wearing denim in recognition of an international campaign that evolved from an Italian Supreme Court decision that overturned a rape conviction because the victim wore tight jeans. Write letters to survivors, make buttons and take a photo against a denim backdrop.
Take Back the Night, Thursday, April 25, 5-8:30 p.m. in UU Plaza. Employees are invited to join Safer for a daylong symposium featuring faculty presentations and student senior projects. The day ends with an evening community celebration in the UU Plaza with food, speakers and a solidarity march. Take Back the Night is an international movement against sexual violence, with roots in San Luis Obispo since the 1980s.
Join Safer for Sexual Assault Action Month
Learn How to Conquer Impostor Syndrome on April 25
Psychotherapist Stevon Lewis will present an hourlong talk titled “Conquering Impostor Syndrome: Tools to Help You Silence Your Inner Bully” at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 25, in the Advanced Technology Labs Building (No. 7). His talk will focus on helping participants identify impostor syndrome and learn effective ways to address the rigidly held beliefs that sufferers hold onto that prevent them from connecting to the parts of themselves responsible for their success. The goal is to help people reduce feeling anxious and not experiencing success internally by learning to connect their thoughts, feelings and behavior to allow them to counter irrational beliefs that lead to distress. Lewis is a speaker, author, executive advisor and the host of the podcast "How to Talk to High Achievers About Anything," produced by LWC Studios.
Learn more about the Stevon Lewis April 25 talk
Alumnus Brandon Rolle Presents 'Life After Cal Poly: Building an Interdisciplinary Career' on April 25
Los Angeles-based composer Brandon Rolle (Political Science and Music, '10) will give a free talk at 11:10 a.m. Thursday, April 25, in Room 218 of the Davidson Music Center about his career since graduating. He will explain how political science research, gigging as a jazz guitarist and working for a video game firm coalesced into his music career as a composer and conductor. The presentation will include audio and video examples of his music and discussion about how networking, expertise and curiosity play a role in his career, and what he wishes he had known when he started his work. A Q&A will follow the talk. Questions? Call the Music Department at ext. 6-2406.
View the Latest Service-Learning Innovations at April 26 Showcase
The 2023-24 Service-Learning Faculty Fellows will present the Service-Learning Showcase of course redesign proposals Friday, April 26, from 10 a.m.-noon in the Architecture Building (No. 5) Berg Gallery, Room 105. The event is organized by the Center for Service in Action and the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology. This poster-session-style event will be an opportunity to view and discuss the latest innovations of service-learning developed by faculty and is open to the entire campus community. Light refreshments will be provided.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SERVICE-LEARNING FACULTY FELLOWSHIP
Tune in to Space Grand Challenge April 27
The California Cybersecurity Institute’s (CCI) annual Space Grand Challenge will take place April 26-27, and the Cal Poly community is invited to watch. This Learn by Doing platform developed by Cal Poly CCI students is a free, national, virtual esports competition in which middle and high school students develop space, cybersecurity and tech skills in an engaging manner. Teams of three to six students collaborate to solve a simulated, gamified space-based cybersecurity breach called Mission Luna. The mission is clear: inspire the next generation of cyber defenders, promote STEM education and expand the talent pipeline in cybersecurity and information technology. By participating in the challenge, students gain hands-on experience, improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and foster teamwork abilities. Faculty and staff can catch the livestream on the CCI’s Twitch channel April 27. The competition runs 9:15 a.m.-4:15 p.m. with the closing ceremony to begin at 5 p.m.
Cal Poly Foundation Board of Directors to Meet May 4
The Cal Poly Foundation board of directors will hold its quarterly meeting Saturday, May 4, at 9:30 a.m. This meeting serves as the board’s annual meeting. In compliance with Cal Poly Foundation Policy 122, public comments for this meeting must be submitted in writing by 5 p.m. Friday, April 26, via email to calpolyfoundation@calpoly.edu. Other items can also be obtained through that email address:
- Obtain a copy of the agenda after April 23.
- Staff and members of the public are encouraged to participate virtually and can request the Zoom login information by registering with the Cal Poly Foundation Office.
- Registration as a non-speaking guest for electronic or telephonic meetings is required prior to the meeting. Once registered, login details will be provided to each registrant to join as an attendee. Registration requests need to be emailed at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.
For more information, contact the Cal Poly Foundation Office
Pianist W. Terrence Spiller to Perform Final Beethoven Sonata Cycle on May 10 at PAC
Pianist and music Professor Emeritus W. Terrence Spiller will give his final Beethoven sonata cycle recital at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 10, in the Pavilion of the Performing Arts Center. The program will be bookended by two large sonatas: the massive Sonata No. 4 in E-flat Major, Op. 7; and the majestic “Waldstein” sonata, No. 21 in C Major, Op. 53. Between these titans will be two smaller works: the compact and joyous Sonata No. 22 in F Major, Op. 54, and the lyrical No. 13 in E-flat Major, Op. 27, No. 1. Spiller’s first recital in the cycle was in 2016. Tickets are sold at the Ticket Office, ext. 6-4849. Call the Music Department with questions, ext. 6-2406.
Get Tickets to the May 10 Beethoven Sonata Recital
Small Island Big Song Comes to PAC April 26
Cal Poly Arts presents Small Island Big Song Friday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. in Harold Miossi Hall. Based on the 2019 documentary film “Small Island Big Song,” the concert is a musical collaboration between artists who are on the frontline of the climate crisis of 16 seafaring nations in the Pacific and Indian oceans. The performance “Our Island” brings together some of the most prominent artists of Taiwan, Madagascar, Papua New Guinea, Tahiti and other islands, who choose to maintain the cultural voice of their people, to sing in the language and play the instruments of their land. A musical blend of roots-reggae, R&B, folk and spoken-word is framed with live visuals filmed across those island nations to create what Billboard described as “one coherent, jaw-dropping piece.” This event has a 20% staff and faculty discount available. Cal Poly students can get $17 tickets in-person at the Cal Poly Ticket Office by showing their student ID.