As the season turns to fall, with pumpkins arriving on campus and record-breaking number of new students settling in, please join me in reflecting on last year’s accomplishments that are providing a foundation for future success. Our faculty continue to be campus leaders as magnets for collaboration and creators of meaningful learning experiences and our students continue to be a force for positive change in the world. CLASS continues to meet challenges and seize opportunities to help our students engage and flourish. I look forward to seeing everyone on campus as we connect across generations and disciplines.

Camille Johnson, PhD
Dean, College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences
CPP Welcomes Prestigious
CSU Summer Arts for the 2025-2030 Season!
Cal Poly Pomona is proud to announce that it has been selected as the new home for the CSU Summer Arts program for the 2025-2029 seasons. This prestigious program, renowned for its innovative arts education and vibrant performances, will foster creativity among students, artists, and the community.

Starting in 2025, CPP’s campus will host immersive two-week courses, leveraging its hands-on learning approach and strong industry ties, including partnerships with Pixar, Disney, and Steinway. Led by the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences and the College of Environmental Design, the program will offer courses in visual art, dance, animation, music, theatre, and writing.

We can't wait for you to join us for this extraordinary artistic experience!

For more details on CSU Summer Arts, click the button below!
The Teagle Foundation awards $325,000 to
Dr. Aishwary Kumar and Cal Poly Pomona!
The Teagle Foundation awards $325,000 to Dr. Aishwary Kumar, Associate Professor of History. Over 36 months Dr. Aishwary Kumar and team of C?LASS faculty will redesign three history courses that fulfill the California State University system’s American Institutions and Ideals requirement: HIST 2201, and HIST 2202, and HIST 3340. These courses will be transformed from conventional lecture-based history and government surveys into seminar-style courses that will give students the opportunity to read common sets of core texts that have shaped the American political experiment. Cal Poly Pomona (CPP) will also launch a new minor in Global Justice, which will serve as its foundation for the grant-supported sections of HIST 2201/2202/3340 and provide a pathway through upper-level general education courses at CPP.
Provost's/LABounty Award for Emerging Technologies: Digital Humanities Consortium
Led by Dr. Alex Madva and Dr. Rachel Van, the DHC@CPP is dedicated to creating a central hub for aligning efforts and resources in Digital Humanities (DH). In addition to coordinating these efforts, the DHC will offer unique programming, including expert-led events, student showcases, and development opportunities for both students and faculty. 

Digital Humanities is an interdisciplinary field that explores technology as both a tool and a subject of humanistic study. DH practices encompass a range of activities from GIS and digitization to computational methods and the study of technology's impact on humanity, including artificial intelligence, algorithmic biases, media analysis, and misinformation. Emphasizing public engagement, DH leverages innovative platforms such as websites, podcasts, social networks, and video-sharing to communicate scholarly work.
Dr. Alex Madva
Dr. Rachel Van
WELCOME BACK BRONCOS!
Welcome back, Broncos! As we kick off the Fall 2024 semester at Cal Poly Pomona, we’re excited to see our campus buzzing with energy and enthusiasm again. Whether you're returning or joining us for the first time, this semester is full of opportunities to learn, grow, and make lasting memories.

Here's to a successful and inspiring academic year ahead! 🎉
From the Classroom to Congress:
Panetta Institute Internship
This past year, our political science majors, Victoria Flores and Juliana Murillo, took on the Panetta Institute’s Congressional Internship in Washington, D.C., and what an incredible journey it was!

Victoria worked in the U.S. House of Representatives, met members of Congress, and even helped re-introduce the "Pink Tax Repeal Act." Juliana interned for Congresswoman Katie Porter, contributing to the re-introduction of the Mental Health Justice Act and gaining invaluable experience.

We are thrilled to announce that this year, Political Science major, Amary Corona, will be representing Cal Poly Pomona as the next Panetta Intern! 🌟 Best of luck, Amary—we can't wait to hear all about your journey in D.C.! 🎉

Click the button below to read more about the Panetta Internship and about our Political Science student experiences!

CLASS Student in the News!

Psychology major Johnny Muñoz, a blind mariachi guitarist and singer for CPP’s mariachi ensemble Mariachi Los Broncos, has another musical passion: DJing. The best part, he says, is “showing the world that no matter what you’re doing, no matter what kind of disability you have...you can do anything you put your mind to.” Watch the CBS LA video here! 
Exciting CLASS Fellowship Opportunities!
Are you ready to make a difference and dive into the intersection of ethics, policy, and technology? The California Center for Ethics and Policy (CCEP) at Cal Poly Pomona is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 Ethics & Policy Student Fellows program! This year’s theme is The Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence.

As a Student Fellow, you’ll engage in an intensive seminar, lead outreach events, create podcasts, and have the opportunity to apply for scholarships and fellowships ranging from $100 to $1,000. Applications are due by September 20th.

Additionally, the Digital Humanities Consortium (DHC) is seeking two Student Fellows for Fall and two for Spring! If you have experience in Digital Humanities and want to support student research, create and edit digital content, and help plan innovative programming, this is the opportunity for you. DHC Fellows will work approximately 4 hours per week at $25/hour. Applications are due by September 15th.

Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to enhance your academic journey and gain valuable experience! Apply now and take the next step in your career at CPP.
Welcome New CLASS Faculty

We’re excited to welcome new faculty to the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences this fall! Join us in extending a warm welcome to our newest colleagues who bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our departments. Their diverse expertise and fresh perspectives will enrich our academic community and enhance our commitment to excellence in teaching and research.
CLASS Studied Abroad this Summer!
This summer, CPP students embarked on unforgettable study abroad adventures, exploring new cultures and gaining hands-on experience in places like Thailand, Germany, Japan, and beyond.

These trips offered more than just academic credit—they provided life-changing opportunities to see the world through a new lens. Programs range from Faculty-Led to CSU International, with flexible durations. Thanks to support from Professor Renford Reese and Political Science Alum, Sean Yu, study abroad is more accessible than ever.
Sean Yu has contributed to efforts to make study abroad affordable to all students. Over the past five years, Yu has donated a total of $1 million in support of students visiting East Asia, Reese said. The political science department extends its study abroad programs to all majors.

Cal Poly Pomona offers over 100 study abroad programs in more than 60 countries, allowing you to experience new cultures while earning transferable credits. Study abroad is more than academics—it’s a life-changing adventure. As Kraig Walkup, study abroad coordinator, says, “It takes theory into practice, immersing students in a new culture firsthand.”Visit the Cal Poly Pomona Study Abroad website to explore programs and apply. Don’t miss the chance to make your college experience truly global!
Photos: Top right: English Study Abroad to teach english in Thailand led by Professor Olga Griswold, Bottom left: Economics student exchange in Hannover, Germany led by Professor Carsten Lange, Bottom right: Political Science students in Japan led by Professor Renford Reese.
CLASS Kudos

We want to celebrate your achievements and highlight your incredible work! Fill out a short form to share your recent accomplishments, and you could be featured in our next newsletter!
Alumni Spotlight: Dustin Schofield, '07 Theatre
We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Dustin Schofield, an award-winning creative leader with over 20 years of experience in the themed entertainment industry. Dustin's career is a testament to his passion and dedication, particularly in his recent role leading the multi-disciplined team behind the creation of Zootopia: Hot Pursuit! at Shanghai Disney Resort. From a blank sheet of paper to the grand opening, Dustin directed a global team from California to Shanghai, bringing this immersive experience to life. His innovative approach to storytelling not only elevated the Zootopia brand across China but also enhanced the appeal of Shanghai Disney Resort. Dustin’s remarkable achievements in the industry serve as an inspiration to us all.

Dustin will take part in a virtual Theatre Alumni panel coming up on October 15th!
Theatre Alumni Panel
October 15, 2024 | 6:00pm - 7:30pm
via Zoom

In honor of National Arts and Humanities month join us for an exciting virtual event with some of our successful Theatre Alumni. The panel will discuss their career, journey, insights of the business, as well as Q&A. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to hear from Fellow Broncos! This is a virtual event. Zoom link will be provided 48 hours prior to the event.
Featured Alumni include:

  • Dustin Schofield ('07) - Executive Creative Director, Walt Disney Imagineering
  • Kedra Dawkins ('11) - Production Designer and Arts Director
  • Catherine Campbell ('15) - Production Manger, Disney Live Entertainment
  • Olivia Jones ('16) - Senior Ars & Culture funding Manager, City of San Diego
Ways to Get Involved
BRONCO MENTORING NETWORK

The CPP Bronco Mentoring Network, our career-mentoring and advice-sharing network, makes it easy for you to connect with others in the Cal Poly Pomona community!
SAVE THE DATES
September 27, 2024 | Pumpkin Fest Preview Night
Join us for a food tasting and award-winning beer and wine for one night only on Friday, Sept. 27, at the third annual Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Fest Preview Night! Buy tickets here!
October 2024 | National Arts & Humanities Month
Celebrate National Arts and Humanities Month with CLASS this year! Keep an eye out for events and ways you can get involved with CLASS throughout the month of October!
October 10 & 17, 2024 | Pumpkin Fest
Get ready for some festive fun at Cal Poly Pomona’s Pumpkin Fest! Pumpkin Fest! Join us for two exciting events celebrating the season. Details for both events will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more information and mark your calendars for these spook-tacular gatherings!
  • Alumni Pumpkin Fest: On October 10, alumni are invited to reconnect and enjoy a special evening filled with pumpkin-themed activities and refreshments. Become a CPP Alumni Association member to find out more!
  • CLASS Night at Pumpkin Fest: On October 17, current students, faculty, and staff are welcome to join in the fun with pumpkin carving, games, and more! RSVP coming soon!
October 15, 2024 | Theatre Alumni Panel
In honor of National Arts and Humanities month join us for an exciting virtual event with some of our successful Theatre Alumni. The panel will discuss their career, journey, insights of the business, as well as Q&A.
November 2, 2024 | Explore CPP Day
Do you know someone planning on starting college in fall 2025 as a freshman or transferring to CPP in spring 2025? At Explore CPP Day they will get the chance to see how our unique learn-by-doing CPP Polytechnic Experience and supportive campus will help discover their passion, learn to thrive, and prepare them to succeed in work and the world. | Learn more!
November 7, 2024 | Is Grad School for Me? Book Talk
Join us in celebrating First-Gen Week with a special presentation by authors Yvette Martinez-Vu and Miroslava Chavez-Garcia on their book, Is Grad School for Me? Demystifying the Application Process for First-Gen BIPOC Students. Join us on November 7 at 10 a.m. in Ursa Minor for this insightful event. RSVP coming soon!
November 14 - 28, 2024 | Bronco Launchpad Fundraising Campaign
Support CLASS students and initiatives during the upcoming Bronco Launchpad fundraising campaign. Stay tuned for more information to come!
November 20, 2024 | GIS Day
Don’t miss out on this chance to dive into the world of GIS on Wed, Nov 20th from 10 am - 2 pm in BSC's Ursa Major. Learn about GIS with hands-on activities including GIS trash bins, geocaching, and more! More details and RSVP coming soon!
November 21, 2024 | World Philosophy Day
Join us for a day of thought-provoking discussions, engaging lectures, and insightful conversations celebrating philosophical inquiry and global perspectives. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the world of philosophy and broaden your horizons. Info coming soon!
Music Department
24-25 Concert Season
Begins October 2024
Don't miss musical performances from CPP student ensembles and faculty this Fall! Enjoy concerts featuring jazz, orchestra, mariachi, piano, musical theatre, and more.

Fall concert dates that will be announced soon! Visit the Music Department website for more information.
Theatre and New Dance
24-25 Season
Begins October 2024
Exciting Theatre and New Dance productions are coming to Cal Poly Pomona this Fall! Stay tuned for the official dates and prepare to be entertained by the skills and depth of our talented students.

Click the button below to learn more about our Theatre and New Dance Department.

CLASS Podcasts
The Multiverse of Misinformation, Episode 1 - Scroll for your Health
California Center for Ethics & Policy (CCEP) Podcast
Welcome to the Multiverse of Misinformation, a podcast about misinformation and the way it affects the many facets of our life, produced by the California Center for Ethics and Policy--or “CCEP” --at Cal Poly Pomona and generously supported by the Cal Poly Pomona Special Projects for Improving the Classroom Experience grant program.| Listen Now!
Under One Roof: Mutigenerational Households During the Pandemic
Cal Poly Pomona Anthropology
Under One Roof is a podcast by CPP Anthropology students exploring the experiences of multigenerational households during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past few years, they interviewed families living together with children, parents, and grandparents. Led by Dr. Amy Dao, the podcast shares these compelling stories.| Listen Now!
Feasting for Feminism
A Poly Post Podcast
Produced by The Poly Post, Feasting for Feminism is a podcast where Cal Poly Pomona students and faculty, along with special guests discuss feminist issues, highlight women in the community while eating food! | Listen Now!
The Pink State
by Lauren Furey, COM Faculty
The Pink State is an eight-episode podcast series hosted by professors and former journalists Lauren Furey and Andrea Hall, highlighting the role of women in U.S. local, state and national politics. Listen to the hosts, women politicians, campaign managers, journalists, and academics discuss the history of women in politics, the strides women have made, the barriers they still face, and hopes for the future of women as candidates and as voters. | Listen Now!



CLASS Bookshelf


Dive into books authored by our esteemed faculty and enjoy podcasts featuring insightful discussions by students, faculty, and guests. Discover a world of knowledge and creativity at your fingertips!


Don't Miss a Beat with
The Poly Post!

Stay up-to-date on the latest Cal Poly Pomona student news and subscribe to student-run newspaper - The Poly Post!

A staff of student journalists provides news to the campus community online through thepolypost.com, The Poly Post app for iPhone or Android, and through a weekly print edition available across campus every Tuesday. 
Support CLASS by becoming a donor!

Your generous contributions help us provide exceptional educational experiences, fund scholarships, and support research. Click the button below to select from a variety of CLASS funds you wish to support or contact Marissa Garcia via email, mcgarcia1@cpp.edu or call 909-869-2310!

Volunteer with CLASS to Assist with Student Outreach!

Classroom Visits
Sign up by Fri, Sep 20, 2024  
The last day to sign up for Classroom Visits with OREP is 9/20 at 5pm. Visit this link to sign up! 
Fall Preview Day
Nov 2, 2024
Volunteer to meet & greet with future CPP students and share why you love CPP! Open to current students, faculty, and alumni! Sign up here if interested!
To be featured in our next CLASS Connection Newsletter, submit your story!
Connect with CLASS on social media!