California State Polytechnic University, Pomona

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona · Public domain · source
Name	California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Established	1938
Type	Public university
Endowment	$124.8 million (2021)
President	Soraya M. Coley
Students	25,072 (Fall 2022)
City	Pomona
State	California
Country	United States
Campus	Suburban, 1,438 acres (5.82 km²)
Colors	Green and Gold
Nickname	Broncos
Affiliations	California State University system, APLU, AASCU

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona is a public university located in Pomona, California. It is one of two polytechnic universities in the California State University system and is known for its "learn by doing" philosophy. The university offers a comprehensive curriculum with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, alongside a robust selection of programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Its expansive campus is situated on the historic site of the former W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Ranch.

History

The university's origins trace back to 1938 when a satellite campus of California State Polytechnic College, San Luis Obispo was established on a portion of the donated W.K. Kellogg estate in Pomona, California. This campus became independent in 1966, forming California State Polytechnic College, Pomona. It achieved university status and adopted its current name in 1972. Key developments include the establishment of the College of Engineering and the founding of the Lyle Center for Regenerative Studies. The campus's historic core, including the iconic Kellogg House Pomona, reflects its unique heritage tied to the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the region's agricultural history in the San Gabriel Valley.

Academics

The university is organized into eight academic colleges: the College of Agriculture, College of Business Administration, College of Education and Integrative Studies, College of Engineering, College of Environmental Design, College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences, College of Science, and the College of the Extended University. It is particularly renowned for its programs in engineering, agriculture, architecture, and hospitality management. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, a principle demonstrated through extensive laboratory work, design studios, and the university's operational farm and agriscapes. The Lyle Center for Regenerative Studies is a nationally recognized facility dedicated to sustainable design and living.

Campus

The 1,438-acre campus is one of the largest in the California State University system, blending modern academic facilities with historic ranch landscapes. Notable facilities include the College of Environmental Design buildings, the Bronco Student Center, and the Kellogg Gymnasium. The campus features the historic Kellogg House Pomona, the Arabian Horse Center, and the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Library. Its location in the Pomona Valley provides a distinct setting that includes student-run agricultural units, experimental gardens, and the Japanese Garden, reflecting the university's polytechnic mission within the context of Southern California.

Student life

Student life is supported by over 300 student clubs and organizations, including fraternities and sororities governed by the National Panhellenic Conference and the North-American Interfraternity Conference. Key events include the annual Poly Vue orientation and the Week of Welcome. The Bronco Student Center and the Bronco Recreation and Intramural Complex serve as major hubs for activities. Student media includes the newspaper *The Poly Post* and radio station KBPS. The university's diverse student body actively participates in cultural organizations, professional societies, and student government through Associated Students, Inc..

Athletics

The university's athletic teams, known as the Cal Poly Pomona Broncos, compete in NCAA Division II as members of the California Collegiate Athletic Association. The Broncos have won numerous national championships, most notably in men's basketball and women's volleyball. The department's motto, "The Pursuit of Athletic Excellence," underscores its commitment to student-athlete success. Primary athletic facilities include Kellogg Gymnasium, Scolinos Field for baseball, and the Bronco Track and Field. The program has produced several athletes who have gone on to professional careers, including in Major League Baseball.

Notable alumni and faculty

Notable alumni include former NASA astronaut George D. Zamka, former United States Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Rubén Salazar. In the arts, alumni include Academy Award-winning sound editor Skip Lievsay and musician Brad Dutz. The faculty has included influential figures such as architect Craig Ellwood and agricultural scientist Ronald B. H. Wills. The university's graduates have made significant contributions across fields such as aerospace engineering, public policy, journalism, and sustainable design.

Category:California State University Category:Universities and colleges in Los Angeles County, California Category:Educational institutions established in 1938