07/16/2026
No surprise that two out of four CalPoly Humboldt Distinguished Alumni in 2026 are Humboldt journalism grads -- Meg Godlewski ('87) and Scottie Lee Meyers ('12). https://now.humboldt.edu/news/announcing-2026-distinguished-alumni-honorees
Meg Godlewski ('87, Journalism)
Meg Godlewski has built a distinguished career spanning investigative journalism, aviation education, and public service. As technical editor for FLYING magazine and a longtime reporter for General Aviation News, she has become one of the nation's most respected voices in aviation journalism. Her reporting has helped make complex aviation issues accessible to broad audiences while advancing safety and professionalism throughout the industry.
Godlewski's investigative article, "Death by Time Builder," exposed systemic safety concerns in flight training and has become required reading at flight schools across the country. Beyond journalism, she is a highly credentialed flight instructor who has trained and mentored aspiring pilots for decades. Her advocacy has also extended to historic preservation, helping spur efforts that led to the restoration of the famed Memphis Belle aircraft.
Godlewski credits the guidance of Humboldt faculty members and the University's experiential approach to learning with helping launch a career defined by curiosity, expertise, and service. She remains connected to Cal Poly Humboldt through campus engagement, such as her role in establishing a flight simulator at the Library and her mentorship with the Aviation Club, as well as creative work inspired by her student experiences.
“The university creates so many wonderful scholars and members of society. I am both humbled and honored to be named. My time at Humboldt gave me the tools I needed to be successful as a journalist and an educator of flight,” Godlweski says.
Scottie Lee Meyers ('12, Journalism)
Emmy Award-winning producer Scottie Lee Meyers has built a career in public media focused on elevating community voices and fostering meaningful public dialogue. As a producer for Milwaukee PBS, Meyers creates documentaries that examine issues ranging from veterans' experiences and youth mental health to refugee resettlement and the dairy industry.
Meyers also serves as co-host and co-producer of the award-winning podcast Speaking of... and previously worked with Wisconsin Public Radio, helping facilitate conversations with policymakers, experts, and community leaders. His journalism career has included reporting for local and regional news organizations, including the North Coast Journal and the Tribally owned Two Rivers Tribune.
Through documentary filmmaking, public broadcasting, and community-centered reporting, Meyers has demonstrated a commitment to journalism that informs, connects, and serves. His work reflects the values of empathy, integrity, and public service that continue to guide his career.
“Every journalist hopes their work makes a difference. To have my alma mater recognize that work is deeply affirming because it reminds me that the values I learned at Cal Poly Humboldt—curiosity, compassion and an appreciation for a good public square—have guided every step of my career,” Meyers says.
Cal Poly Humboldt will honor four alumni whose leadership, innovation, and service have made a lasting impact in their professions and communities. The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are Meg Godlewski ('87, Journalism), John McGuire ('74, Social Science), Scottie Lee Meyers ('12, Journal...
