Cultivate Fall 2025

FROM THE DEAN

Each day I spend at Cal Poly, I’m reminded why this university is so special. The energy on campus this fall is electric — our students are back, and their curiosity and passion for learning fuels everything we do. They are the “why” behind every program we create and every opportunity we build.

In just a few short months, I’ve also had the privilege of meeting many of our industry partners across the state — and the Cal Poly alumni who work at those organizations. Those connections are powerful. It’s already clear to me that these partnerships are essential to preparing students who are ready to lead and innovate from day one.

This issue of Cultivate highlights the themes of resilience and innovation — the same qualities driving our college forward. Interest in our programs continues to surge, with more than 7,600 first-time freshman and transfer applicants last year alone. Our commitment is to meet that enthusiasm with cutting-edge facilities, transformative learning experiences and a deep connection to the industries we serve.

In this issue, you’ll read stories about pivotal gifts — from the new farm store, which will give students hands-on experience in every aspect of the food supply chain, to the soon-to-be-opened Animal Health Center and Plant Sciences Complex, all shaped by industry and community support. These milestones represent more than buildings; they’re proof of what’s possible when we work together.

Our students are also breaking ground in discovery — tackling research that ranges from understanding the impact of iron deficiency in infants to helping execute the first-ever prescribed burn on Cal Poly’s campus. The power of Learn by Doing is infinite, and I am lucky to see it come alive each and every day.

I’m excited for what lies ahead — to keep strengthening our partnerships, supporting our students and growing Cal Poly’s legacy of excellence. Together, we’re cultivating the future of agriculture, food and environmental sciences.

In partnership and community,

BRIAN HORGAN
Dean

College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences