Cal Poly Pomona

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Don B. Huntley, a proud CPP alumnus and the namesake of the Huntley College of Agriculture at Cal Poly Pomona.

A pistachio farmer and businessman, Huntley (’60, animal husbandry) generously supported programs at CPP for decades. This included supporting faculty research, student scholarships, the creation of an on-campus vineyard and plant health science lab.

The ultimate example of his philanthropy was his 2016 pledge to give his 480-acre California pistachio farm to the Huntley College of Agriculture upon his passing. In response, The California State University Board of Trustees named the college in Huntley’s honor.

Huntley’s generous gift will transform the college, which will continue to operate the farm for at least 20 years. The net operating revenue from the farm will support the college, research, and provide scholarships for students.

"Don embodied the very best of Cal Poly Pomona. Through his extraordinary generosity, Don created opportunities across the entire campus, helping countless students pursue their dreams and realize their potential." - Interim President Iris Levine

CPP plans to hold a celebration of Huntley’s life. Details will be announced once they have been finalized.

Read more about Huntley's life: https://bit.ly/4xMKH1D

Happy Juneteenth!

The CPP community gathered together this week to celebrate and reaffirm the university's commitment to fostering belonging and opportunity for Black students and the broader campus community.

The event featured speakers, reflections on history, shared conversation, and soul food, such as red beans and rice, collard greens, cornbread, and banana pudding -- all family recipes from CPP faculty and staff that were compiled into a digital “Juneteenth Cookbook.”

CPP's celebration came a few days after the Symposium. Reminder: Campus is closed today in honor of this federal holiday.

🔹 Learn more: https://bit.ly/4eeXd2o
🔹 Read the Juneteenth Cookbook: https://bit.ly/4ewyQMC

Happy National Mascot Day to our very own Billy Bronco!

Your story matters more than you think... 📖💡

CPP’s 2026-27 Common Read is “Solito: A Memoir” by poet and author, Javier Zamora. It is a powerful account of Zamora’s journey from El Salvador to the United States as a nine-year-old, traveling alone to reunite with his family.

For nearly two decades, the campus community has come together through the Common Read to engage with a shared story. This year’s selection was nominated by Anthony Ocampo (pictured), chair and professor of sociology, who believes Solito will inspire meaningful conversations about resilience, belonging, family, and the experiences that shape our communities.

All CPP students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to engage with the book throughout the academic year! Learn more: https://bit.ly/3S7V0gB

CPP’s Model UN team has done it again! 🌍 🏆

They captured top honors, earning Outstanding Delegation at the National Model United Nations Conference in New York for the 4th consecutive year! 👏👏👏👏

Competing against more than 2,600 students from universities around the globe, CPP’s team of 16 represented Armenia and tackled complex issues, including refugee housing, strengthening international relationships, and safeguarding education during conflicts.

Congrats to the entire team for continuing this legacy! Read more: https://bit.ly/4oqgRMg

Student government wasn't part of their plans. Until they decided to just go for it!

For outgoing ASI President Amiyah Ellsworth and VP Bia Machain, who just graduated in May, leadership started with a simple question: Why don’t we do something about it?

Suddenly they were representing 27,000 Broncos. Serving their term in 2025-26 was far from easy, but it was rewarding in so many ways.

Their biggest lesson learned? “I hope people see that you can just do it. You don’t have to know everything before you try.” -Bia Machain

Read more: https://bit.ly/4xkhKKf

Congrats to CPP Provost Terri Gomez, who has been selected as one of 29 higher education leaders across the county to participate in a premier professional development program.

The Millennium Leadership Initiative (MLI) program, hosted by American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), equips participants with the insight and practical skills necessary to lead effectively in today’s evolving higher education environment.

“It is important that leaders take time to learn and engage with thought leaders across the country. The different perspectives will help me continue to be strategic and forward-looking. I am thrilled to be representing the campus and The California State University in this cohort.” -Gomez

Gomez has been at CPP for over 25 years, beginning as a lecturer and rising to the rank of full professor before serving the university in a range of administrative roles. She currently serves as provost and vice president for Academic Affairs since 2024.

Read more: https://bit.ly/4vFBy9g