Money Magazine’s 2025-26 Best Colleges List
Cal Poly Receives Five-Star Ranking
Cal Poly again received Money magazine’s top five-star ranking in its 2025-26 Best Colleges in America list, a ranking designed to help students and their parents choose a school in terms of value. Money’s analysis in its 11th annual list showcased the top 732 colleges and universities in the U.S. on graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid, alumni salaries and more. This is Cal Poly’s third straight year on the list.
Cal Poly Police Department
New Chief Robert Plastino Sworn In
Following a comprehensive national recruitment Cal Poly swore in Robert Plastino as its newest police chief on July 25. Plastino brings more than 27 years of experience with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s office, where he oversaw more than 250 staff in the north county and south county operations, worked collaboratively with UC Santa Barbara, and performed community relations with Isla Vista. He holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor's in business administration. His appointment comes after George Hughes was promoted to associate vice president, Public Safety, overseeing the departments in San Luis Obispo and at the Cal Poly Solano Campus.
Orfalea College of Business
Financial Management Concentration Receives Prestigious Certification
The financial management concentration at the Orfalea College of Business has been named a Certified Financial Planner-registered program by the CFP Board of Standards Inc. With this designation, financial management graduates are put on a fast track toward earning the CFP certification, a highly respected certification in the financial services industry. “Achieving registration with the CFP board opens new career paths in financial services for our students,” said Cyrus Ramezani, professor of finance and program director.
Campus Dining
Honored with Two Grand Prize Awards
Cal Poly Campus Dining joined college and university dining teams from across the country recognized for excellence in student-centered food service by the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS). Campus Dining received two Grand Prizes during NACUFS’ 2025 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards National Conference in Salt Lake City on July 11. “This recognition is a testament to the commitment this team has to providing our students with best-in-class dining experiences and our constant evolution as dining program,” said Andrea Burns, Cal Poly Partners’ associate executive director of Commercial Services.
University Communications and Marketing
Major Award Wins for Visual Media
Senior university photographer Joe Johnston was recently named PhotoShelter’s 2025 Higher Ed Storyteller of the Year. The award honored Johnston’s work taking thousands of photos that weave Learn by Doing into university websites, social media platforms, publications and signage. The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) also gave Circle of Excellence awards to two videos by university videographer Matt Yoon and multimedia specialist Dylan Head. The “First Moments as a Mustang” video won gold in the student audience category, and the “Students Discover Artifacts on a 100-year-old Japanese Farmstead” video won silver in the news and research category.
See more of UCM’s award-winning work
Office of Research
Engineering Faculty Receive Two New U.S. Patents
Two College of Engineering faculty and an alumnus recently received U.S. Patents, the Office of Research announced. Trevor Cardinal, professor of biomedical engineering, received a U.S. Patent titled “Methods and Compositions to Enhance Arteriogenesis,” for stimulating natural bypasses to enlarge, with the goal of developing a therapy to help patients avoid amputation. Long Wang, assistant professor of structural engineering, and graduate student alum Colby Scanlon received a U.S. Patent titled “Latching Hinge System, Method and Apparatus” for designing a hinge that allows smaller structural panels to connect to create sturdy, reusable structures.
Learn More About How to Develop Patents at Cal Poly
Police Department
Welcomes K-9 Dex, Celebrates Retiring K-9 Zeus
The Cal Poly Police Department announces the retirement of K-9 Zeus and welcomes new K-9 Dex. Zeus, who spent the past 7 1/2 years serving the community, was honored July 17 at a private retirement ceremony with the department, friends and his handler, Officer Stephanie Pipan. “Zeus has been a great companion to work with and has dedicated so much to Cal Poly and the San Luis Obispo County community,” Pipan said. “His retirement is much deserved.” Dex’s specialties are patrol and explosive and weapons detection. He will be trained in hard-surface tracking. Dex’s first day was July 18.
Engineering Teams Research
Wave Generator to Charge Marine Corps Batteries
Nine Cal Poly graduates lowered their yearlong senior project — a compact wave-powered generator designed to replace diesel units Marines truck ashore to recharge batteries in remote coastal zones — into Morro Bay in late May. Each rise and fall sent a flicker across the voltmeter as proof that wave energy can bolster frontline missions. Five mechanical and four electrical engineering students teamed up with the Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center (NAVFAC EXWC) to build the Expeditionary Ocean Power Generator. The concept sprang from a critical need: give Marine Corps warfighters charged batteries on deployment without diesel.
Engineering Graduates Debut
Dynamic Steel Poppy Installation in SLO Botanical Garden
Cal Poly engineering graduates have unveiled a 10-foot-tall steel poppy crowned by a stained-glass butterfly that turns in the breeze in the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden. Tasked by garden leadership with creating a wind-activated sculpture inspired by nature, the students’ work has quickly become a standout attraction in the Children’s Garden. Built as an interdisciplinary senior project, the installation was completed just before graduation. General engineering graduate Aiden Largay and mechanical engineering graduates Irene Han and Madeline Xiong spent long days in Cal Poly’s machine shops, water-jet cutting and hand-bending each petal to bring their vision to life.
University Advising
Mott Peuker Named 2024-25 Outstanding Faculty Advisor
Jennifer Mott Peuker, associate professor of mechanical engineering, has been announced as the recipient of the 2024-25 Outstanding Faculty Advisor Award, which recognizes a faculty member who has had a positive influence on students through academic advising.
As highlighted in the nominations received, Mott Peuker is deeply committed to student success. Mott Peuker will be recognized at the Fall Conference general session in September and will receive a cash stipend.
Learn More About Mott Peuker and Past Awardees
Career Services
Amie Hammond Honored with Leadership Awarded
Amie Hammond, executive director of Career Services, was recently honored by the Mountain Pacific Association of Colleges and Employers (MPACE) with the inaugural Amie Hammond Exemplary Leadership Award. Named in her honor, the award will recognize outstanding leadership among future board members. Hammond was selected for her years of service to the MPACE board, including serving as the director of communication from 2014-16 and her most recent role as secretary. MPACE is a professional association of career services professionals and employers across the region.
Wellbeing Webinar
Unplugging to Recharge
Social media apps and websites have many positive attributes, such as staying connected with loved ones around the world, kick-starting social movements and providing an outlet for self-expression. This webinar will explore the possible negative impact the time spent scrolling or swiping may have on life. Join today to participate in this conversation Aug. 13, 2-3 p.m.!
CalPERS
Benefits Education Event
The CalPERS Benefits Education Event is a two-day virtual event for employees to deepen their understanding of CalPERS benefits, no matter where you are in your career. Participants will have access to a series of live, instructor-led classes covering key topics such as retirement planning, benefit payment options, social security, and CalPERS health benefits. There will also be ask-the-expert virtual rooms, where you can connect directly with CalPERS representatives and partnering organizations to get personalized answers to your questions. Register to attend Aug. 13-14, and take advantage of all that this event has to offer.
Employee and Organization Development
Staff Learning Community
Looking to grow your network, exchange ideas and strengthen your professional skills? Join the Staff Learning Community (SLC) for engaging sessions focused on collaboration, learning and resource-sharing among Cal Poly staff. Whether you're looking to enhance your workplace practices, discover new tools or simply connect with colleagues across campus, the SLC is a welcoming space for ongoing growth and support. Employee and Organization Development invites you to explore upcoming workshops, recordings and more on the SLC SharePoint site.
Students With Dependents
Inclusivity Training
The Students with Dependents Program within the Office of the Dean of Students will host its Inclusion Training via Zoom from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 19. The virtual training will help participants learn more about students with dependents, learn about higher education policies specific to parenting/caregiving students, and think about how to apply new knowledge to their campus roles. The training is designed for faculty, staff and student employees who are interested in enhancing inclusive and equitable practices to support students with dependents' success. Questions? Contact Courtney Moore, Students with Dependents program coordinator, at cmoore90@calpoly.edu.
University Communications and Marketing
Schedule a New Professional Photo Aug. 26 and 27
Faculty and staff are invited to sign up for a free professional portrait session Tuesday or Wednesday, Aug. 26 and 27, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Graphic Communication Building (No. 26). Participants must sign up for a specific time using Calendly Appointments. This resource is intended for those who have not taken a recent head shot. Campus photographers from University Communications and Marketing will take these free shots of current faculty and staff to update professional platforms.
Faculty and Staff Housing
Harvest Lofts Offers Special Faculty and Staff Housing Rates
Getting into Cal Poly staff and faculty housing just became more attainable. Located just four miles from campus in the San Luis Ranch community, Harvest Lofts offers faculty and staff a convenient housing option in a thoughtfully planned neighborhood with easy access to Cal Poly as well as local amenities and things to do. Studio apartments in Harvest Lofts are now available starting at a new lower price of $2,050. A separate lease incentive provides one month of free rent on one-bedroom units valued up to $2,700 and is available through Oct. 1, 2025.
Graphic Communication
Harvey R. Levenson
Harvey R. Levenson, distinguished graphic communication educator and Cal Poly's longest-serving department head (30 years), passed away after a remarkable career advancing education and industry. He transformed the Graphic Communication program into an industry leader by modernizing curriculum, securing cutting-edge equipment donations and bridging academia and industry. Harvey developed an influential advisory board comprising industry leaders who guide curriculum and student opportunities.
A longtime educator, author, consultant, speaker and industry expert witness, Harvey’s vision established endowments and foundations that continue launching successful careers. Celebration of life: 4 p.m. Aug. 21, 2025, at the PAC.
Fall Crowdfund
Submit Your Application
Cal Poly clubs, organizations, programs and departments are invited to submit a fundraising project for a chance to be selected for this year’s Fall Crowdfund Cohorts! Crowdfunding is a great platform to raise money for special projects, events, conferences and competitions. To qualify, projects must be able to provide their organization’s account number and be sponsored by a Cal Poly faculty member or advisor. Projects will launch in October and November and run during the duration of the month. Deadlines for each cohort are Aug. 31 and Sept. 30, respectively. Space is limited, so submit your application today!
Cal Poly Foundation
Board of Directors Meeting
The Cal Poly Foundation Board of Directors will hold its quarterly meeting at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 23. In compliance with Cal Poly Foundation Policy 122, public comments must be emailed to calpolyfoundation@calpoly.edu by 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15. The agenda will be available upon request via email after Aug. 18. This meeting is virtual; register for Zoom login details via email at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Login details will be provided to each registrant to join as an attendee. For more information, contact the Cal Poly Foundation office at 805-756-7147 or via email.
Julian A. McPhee University Union
Temporary Closure
As part of ongoing University Union electrical infrastructure upgrades, a planned power outage is scheduled from Aug. 16–19.
The building will be closed entirely during this time and ASI services managed in the UU will be remote. Contact Assistant Director for Facilities Operations Daren Connor (dconnor@calpoly.edu) with any questions or concerns.
Learn more about ASI-managed facilities
Cal Poly Recreation Center
Upgrades
The Recreation Center has several essential maintenance projects underway. Weatherproofing for the Main Gym roof will cause closures to the building perimeter, including Climbing Park. During the start of the project, Breakaway classes have moved to the Training Room (Room 109) until Sept. 13. Amenities in the locker rooms are being updated. During construction, showers in the locker rooms will be closed, but alternate showers are available. Locker rooms will remain usable to change, lockers are available to store your belongings, and restrooms are open.
Learn more about ASI Facility Projects
Your Fall
Your ASI
View all that ASI has to offer throughout fall quarter on the ASI website starting Aug. 25! Whether you want to elevate your wellness journey, get active, craft, or spend more time outside, ASI has something for you!
Registration opens Sept. 15 for ASI Fitness, ASI Poly Escapes and ASI Aquatics classes/workshops and Sept. 22 for the ASI Craft Center.
Learn more about fall quarter with ASI
Driver Safety Program
Planning to drive a power cart around campus?
All Cal Poly employees, including students and volunteers, must complete the Driver Safety Program to be an approved driver before operating any university-owned, rented or personal vehicle for university business. This includes completing the required application, trainings and forms. This includes power carts, as well as cars, trucks, or vans. For those who plan on using a personal vehicle for university business, an annual renewal of the STD 261 form is also required — even if you've been previously approved. Stay compliant and help keep our roads and colleagues safe.
Learn More and Complete the Process
Poly Canyon Road
Intermittent Road Closure for Construction
As part of the Stenner Creek Watershed Enhancement Project, crews are performing road and drainage improvements to enhance water quality in the watershed. To ensure safety during construction, Poly Canyon Road will be closed Monday through Thursday through Aug. 28. An alternate route is available via Stenner Creek Road through Serrano Ranch. Please use caution in the area and be aware of construction vehicles and equipment on both Stenner Creek Road and Poly Canyon Road.
Contact Facilities Management for More Information
Administration Building
Shared Services Centers Get New Names
The Administration Building is the new home to a collection of administrative student faculty and staff services that have been combined as part of the university’s Space Optimization effort. The recently named Employee Shared Services gathers state and Cal Poly Partners Human Resources and Payroll in one convenient location on the second floor of the Administration Building. Also on the second floor, Student Accounts and Financial Aid make up the new Student Financial Services. The names of the two centers followed a campaign that gathered feedback and offered name options to students, and the staff who work in the centers.
Learn More About the Space Optimization Effort
Youth Protection Program
Register 2026 Youth Programs Now
Each year, Cal Poly hosts thousands of youths attending programs and camps. The Youth Protection Program is in place to create safe and positive experiences for all minors involved in these university-sponsored programs and activities. This program ensures compliance with CSU policies and best practices to protect youth participants. All programs involving minors must register annually through the Youth Protection portal. Registration helps maintain oversight, provide required training and support risk mitigation efforts. Coordinators are required to register every year, at least 60 days prior to the start of the program.
Faculty and Staff Housing
Vista Meadows to Begin Paving and Traffic Control on Grand Avenue
Work continues on the Vista Meadows faculty and staff housing development project. The most significant upcoming activity is asphalt concrete paving and overlay on Grand Avenue, scheduled for Aug. 19-29. During this period, one-lane traffic control will be in place. Drivers should expect delays and plan alternate routes when possible. Meanwhile, rough grading is nearly complete, underground wet and dry utility installation is in progress, and the Allan block retaining wall phase is now underway. Final permits for house construction are anticipated in early August.
Contact Facilities Management with Questions
Faculty and Staff Parking
Fall Quarter 2025 Permits
Employee quarterly parking permits go on sale Monday, Sept. 8, just before the current Summer Quarter permits expire Sunday, Sept, 7. Finding a parking permit option that best fits your commute is easy using your parking account. Daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual parking permits are available online for purchase at your bargained rate. Permits sold in parking lots at pay stations, parking meters or by mobile app do not offer staff rates. Fall quarter permits are valid Monday, Sept. 8, through Sunday, Jan. 4.
Learn More about Staff Parking
Plan Your Commute for
Mustang Move-in
Cal Poly will welcome thousands of new Mustangs and their supporters during new student move-in, Sept. 11-12. While preparations are in place to ensure a smooth experience, expect significant traffic and parking impacts. At 6:30 a.m., Grand Ave. will be closed, and the Grand Ave. Parking Structure and Structure 131 will be reserved exclusively for move-in operations. Use the California Blvd. and Highland Dr. entrances to access campus. View all event information here for the least disruptive routes and parking. Continuing students return Sept. 16-17. Expect traffic and parking impacts near housing.