2026 Poly Royal Rodeo Returns to the Alex G. Spanos Stadium
Dec 12, 2025
The 84th annual Poly Royal Rodeo is gearing up for a landmark year as it returns to Cal Poly’s largest outdoor venue, the Alex G. Spanos Stadium, bringing with it an expanded and elevated spectator experience.
Scheduled for April 9-11, 2026, the rodeo’s move back to Spanos Stadium will nearly double audience capacity, allowing more supporters to witness one of the university’s most celebrated traditions. The stadium previously hosted the event for three consecutive years through 2019, drawing record-breaking crowds and helping drive vital support for the Cal Poly Rodeo Program.
Following a two-year COVID-19 hiatus, Poly Royal Rodeo resumed in 2022 at the Manfred and Jean Sander Arena at the Cal Poly Rodeo grounds while Spanos Stadium underwent key upgrades. With improvements now complete, the rodeo is poised to make a dynamic return to the stadium, setting the stage for its biggest and most immersive showcase yet.
“For the past several years, we’ve been working toward returning to the larger stadium,” Cal Poly Rodeo coach Ben Londo said. “Making this move back will not only enhance the experience for spectators but also give more supporters and fans the chance to watch our students perform. These outstanding athletes embody teamwork and responsibility, and this opportunity to present their hard work on a bigger stage is truly well deserved.”
The Poly Royal Rodeo, held during Cal Poly’s annual Open House weekend, is deeply rooted in the university’s history and remains one of its most revered events. This year’s performance coincides with the 125th anniversary of Cal Poly and the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, honoring a tradition of building the future on the legacy of the past.
College rodeo athletes from all over the West Coast will compete for a championship title in events such as barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding and steer wrestling. The rodeo will also include concerts after each performance. Those acts will be announced at a later date.
The cost of hosting the rodeo at the stadium will be paid for by sponsorships, donors and ticket sales. Last year nearly 3,000 people attended the standing room only rodeo for three consecutive nights. Spanos Stadium can accommodate more than 11,000 guests each night.
Tickets will go on sale on Feb. 11, 2026, at https://ticketscalpoly.evenue.net. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Cal Poly Rodeo Program.
Cal Poly’s Annual Poinsettia Sale Taking Place December 6
Nov 19, 2025
Cal Poly’s annual poinsettia sale, with thousands of plants in bold holiday colors, will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Poly Plant Shop.
This year’s plants will feature three varieties: red, white and red and white variegated featuring rosy, pink-red bracts with white centers. Sizes range from small plants in 4-inch pots to medium poinsettias in 6-inch pots. Prices range from $8 to $12.
In addition to poinsettias, the Poly Plant and Floral Holiday Sale will also feature student-made flower arrangements, wreaths and holiday swags. Cal Poly products such as barbecue sauces, jams, honey and chocolate will also be available.
The Poly Plant Shop is located on campus off of Via Carta Road. Take the Highland Drive entrance, turn left on Via Carta Road, and go to the top of the hill. For more information, call the Poly Plant Shop at 805-756-1106.
Cal Poly ROTC Cadets Lead the Nation at Advanced Camp 2025
Oct 15, 2025
Cal Poly’s Mustang Battalion cadets’ combined performance average was the highest not only among the 32 Western ROTC programs, including UCLA, UC Berkeley and Oregon, but also over 265 units from across the nation.
Adding to the historic achievement, four of the six Cal Poly cadets who will commission this year earned the prestigious Distinguished Military Graduate (DMG) recognition. They include cadets Zachary Cook (political science), Isabel Hermann (journalism), Andrew Koenig (history) and Avery White (computer engineering).
Out of approximately 5,000 cadets commissioning across the nation in 2025, only a select percentage earn DMG status, reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional leadership, academic success and physical fitness.
“Competing against the best and brightest cadets from nationwide programs is always an honor,” said Lt. Col. Mark Swiney, professor and chair of the Military Science Department. “Our Mustang Battalion’s success highlights the caliber of students we have and how they embody the university’s Learn by Doing spirit and apply their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, excelling in every environment.”
Taking place over 36 days from late May to early July, Advanced Camp is a premier summer training event that brings together more than 5,000 ROTC cadets from across the nation, testing their leadership, endurance and military proficiency under rigorous conditions.
Training throughout the camp focuses on problem-solving in high-stress, real-world simulations. These events further develop leadership traits that help cadets thrive in challe
nging situations.
Throughout camp, cadets must exceed the standards of the Army Physical Fitness Test and are scored in confidence courses, land navigation, marksmanship, first aid, a 12-mile foot march and other skills.
Cadet Gigi Travagline (construction management) dominated the physical fitness events, earning the Top Female Army Fitness Award.
Driscoll’s $5 Million Pledge to Fund New Farm Store Uniting Food and Agriculture Enterprises at Cal Poly
Oct 14, 2025
Driscoll’s, the global leader in fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, has pledged $5 million to Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. This transformative investment will launch a state-of-the-art farm store, anchoring Cal Poly’s new Plant Sciences Complex and advancing the university’s commitment to developing future leaders in food and agriculture.
The farm store, located within the six-acre Plant Sciences Complex, is part of the college’s vision to create a vibrant campus hub for innovation. Students will gain practical experience in growing, producing, marketing and selling campus-made products, while engaging in applied research and retail innovation.
Driscoll’s will have the opportunity to name the farm store, leaving a lasting legacy and celebrating its commitment to community partnership and student development. The store will proudly feature Driscoll’s berries, providing students, faculty and the community with access to fresh, premium fruit directly from the brand.
“We look forward to seeing our investment transform into a unique learning space where students can gain vital experience in an actual retail environment,” said Driscoll’s executive Brie Smith, a proud Cal Poly alumna. “As someone who personally benefited from Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing approach, I’m thrilled Driscoll’s gets to be part of creating new learning opportunities that will prepare the next generation of industry leaders to bring innovation and entrepreneurial spirit to the food system.”
“Driscoll’s is committed to cultivating the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of agriculture and food,” said Soren Bjorn, CEO of Driscoll’s. “Our partnership with Cal Poly reflects our belief in the power of education, innovation and hands-on experience to drive meaningful change for our industry and communities.”
The Plant Sciences Complex, which broke ground in November 2023, will feature the George Wurzel Plant Sciences Building and the Bee Sweet Citrus Agriculture Automation Lab, both set to open in 2026. The farm store, located at the corner of Highland Avenue and Mt. Bishop Road, is scheduled to begin construction in 2026, with an anticipated opening in summer 2027.
The store will unite Cal Poly’s food and agriculture enterprises, providing a central location for collaboration and community engagement. Students will gain insight into every step of the food supply chain — from farm operations and food safety to product development and marketing, preparing them for leadership roles in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.
“Our mission is to educate and empower the next generation of growers and food innovators who will shape the future of our food systems,” said Brian Horgan, dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. “Support from industry partners like Driscoll’s enables us to provide students with real-world learning experiences that prepare them to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving agricultural landscape ahead.”
The farm store will serve as a retail and research hub offering student learning opportunities in product testing, consumer engagement and innovation that reinforce California’s leadership in sustainable agriculture.
Other industry contributors to the Plant Sciences Complex include the James G. Boswell Foundation, Bee Sweet Citrus and Taylor Farms. To join the effort, contact Russ Kabaker, assistant dean of advancement and external relations, at 805-756-6601 or rkabaker@calpoly.edu.
Cal Poly Students to Gain Real-World Fire Management Experience Through Prescribed Burn at University’s Escuela Ranch on Oct. 13
Oct 14, 2025
Cultivating the Future: Cal Poly Strawberry Field Day Showcases Ag Innovation and Sustainability
Jul 28, 2025
July 28, 2025
A spirit of progress and purpose filled the air at the Ninth Annual Cal Poly Strawberry Center Field Day, where over 600 strawberry growers, researchers and industry leaders gathered to witness the future of farming in motion. Co-hosted by the California Strawberry Commission (CSC) and the Cal Poly Strawberry Center, the event celebrated more than a decade of transformative research, cutting-edge technology, and the cultivation of tomorrow’s agricultural leaders.
This year’s Field Day featured 25 dynamic, hands-on demonstrations by student researchers, CSC engineers and industry partners. Live exhibits revealed how innovation is driving practical solutions to the everyday challenges of strawberry farming—environmental, regulatory, economic, and beyond. From breakthrough automation to resilient plant varieties, attendees engaged directly with the science shaping the next era of sustainable agriculture.
Field Day Highlights Included:
- Research on UV-C light as a natural alternative to pesticides.
- Biological and traditional pest management tools that optimize efficacy as well as sustainability.
- Next-gen automation for harvesting and transplanting, designed for efficiency.
- Enhanced equipment sanitation methods that reduce pathogen spread in soil.
“This is more than just a field day— it’s where the future of farming takes root,” said Rick Tomlinson, President of the California Strawberry Commission. “Our growers and industry are deeply committed to sustainable, responsible growing practices, and the Strawberry Center is at the center of that transformation. There is something powerful about seeing the “all-in” spirit that’s driving sustainable success for one of the world’s most beloved fruits.”
Since its founding in 2013, the Cal Poly Strawberry Center — an innovative partnership between Cal Poly and the California Strawberry Commission — has conducted nearly 200 research projects and trained over 150 students through its signature Learn By Doing approach. These students are emerging as the next generation of agricultural problem-solvers, equipped to take on the challenges of a changing industry.
“This event shows what’s possible when education, science, and industry move forward together,” said Dr. Gerald Holmes, Director of the Cal Poly Strawberry Center. “The future is bright—and we’re just getting started.”
As California continues to produce nearly 90% of the nation's strawberries, the industry’s shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and leadership underscores a powerful message: With science and collaboration at the core, the California strawberry industry is not just growing — it’s evolving.
[Click here for photos and videos from the event.]
About the Cal Poly Strawberry Center
The Cal Poly Strawberry Center was established in 2014 within the Cal Poly College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences as a partnership between Cal Poly and the California Strawberry Commission. This one-of-a-kind center is rooted in the hands-on learning approach that defines Cal Poly. The center focuses on applied research incorporating teaching and learning experiences for Cal Poly undergraduate and graduate students, faculty and California strawberry farmers. For more information, please visit www.strawberry.calpoly.edu.
About California Strawberry Commission
The California Strawberry Commission is more than 400 strawberry farmers, shippers and processors, all working together to advance strawberry farming for the future of our land and people. Commission programs create opportunities for success through groundbreaking programs focused on workforce training, strawberry production research and nutrition research. Through science-based information and education, it delivers the good news about sustainable farming practices that benefit the health of people, farms and communities.
Cal Poly Seeks California-Based Artist Proposals for a Mural in Newly Transformed Robert E. Kennedy Library
Feb 18, 2025
Feb. 17, 2025
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Cal Poly is inviting proposals for the design and creation of a mural to be installed in the main entrance lobby of the newly renovated Robert E. Kennedy Library.
The Main Entrance Mural Project seeks proposals from California-based artists to transform a concrete wall into a distinctive mural that will reflect the library as a foundational place where knowledge and personal interests can be expanded and elevated.
“The goal is to continue weaving the thread of placemaking on campus through art,” said Suzie Smith, exhibits and arts curator for Kennedy Library. “We want students to feel excited, welcome and comfortable in the library, knowing that it is a space that reflects them as individuals, as well as the part they play in our collective community.”
The Kennedy Library is currently undergoing a major renovation and is on track to open this fall. The Kennedy Library Transformation Project will transform the five-story building that opened in 1981 — the largest structure on campus — into a dynamic hub where academic experts and resources, ample study space, unique collections and curated programs and exhibitions will be found under one roof.
The request for proposals asks mural artists to submit concepts by March 20. Artists are being asked to consider themes reflecting the diversity of Cal Poly; showcase the library as a central hub of discourse, research, support and learning; and celebrate the campus community. An Art Acquisition Committee comprising an interdisciplinary team of faculty, staff and students will select the artist.
The commission will be funded by donors. The mural will be installed during the summer of 2025. A grand reopening celebration scheduled for the fall.
To learn more about the scope of the project and to apply, download a copy of the RFP and application template at https://lib.calpoly.edu/events-and-exhibits/.
Contact: Suzie Smith
805-756-0866; lib-artcollection@calpoly.edu
Poly Royal Rodeo to be Held April 9-12 During Cal Poly’s Open House
Feb 18, 2025
Feb. 17, 2025
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Tickets will be available starting Feb. 19 for the 83rd annual Poly Royal Rodeo. New this year is an additional performance night, added to accommodate more attendees. Poly Royal will be held at the Cotton Rosser Rodeo Complex on campus during Cal Poly’s Open House, with four full nights of action-packed performances.
The three-night general admission events will begin Thursday, April 10, with the first Cal Poly Rodeo Showcase Performance and conclude Saturday, April 13, with the Poly Royal Rodeo Finals. In addition, a Cal Poly Rodeo Showcase and ASI-sponsored concert will be held exclusively for students on Wednesday, April 10.
Concerts on Wednesday and Saturday night will take place in the rodeo arena for attendees to dance and enjoy the music with more leg room.
The Poly Royal Rodeo is the marquee event on campus during Cal Poly’s annual Open House. The event will feature the top collegiate rodeo athletes from around the West Coast who have advanced to the championship performance from the weekend’s earlier rounds. Athletes will compete for a championship title in events such as barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, tie down roping, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, bull riding and steer wrestling.
Tickets are $50 for general admission and free for children 5 and under. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, Feb. 19, at https://ticketscalpoly.evenue.net/events/CPR. Student tickets for Wednesday night’s performance will be available on Tuesday, Feb. 18, at https://ticketscalpoly.evenue.net/events/CPR. All proceeds from the event benefit the Cal Poly Rodeo Program.
Cal Poly’s Cotton Rosser Rodeo Complex, named after alumnus and founding member of the team, Cotton Rosser (Animal Husbandry, ’52), was dedicated in 2022 after the establishment of the Cotton Rosser Endowment. The endowment honors Rosser’s distinguished dedication to the sport while providing financial support for the future of the Cal Poly Rodeo program. It assists with operational costs as well as student scholarships.
The Cotton Rosser Rodeo Complex is located on campus off Mt. Bishop Road. Designated, paid parking will be available nearby for Poly Royal attendees.
About Cal Poly Rodeo
Cal Poly Rodeo, coached by Ben Londo, is one of the most successful programs in the history of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA). Cal Poly sent six men to the inaugural College National Finals Rodeo in 1949. Since then, Cal Poly Rodeo’s student-athletes have won more national titles than any other college rodeo program, at 45 national titles.
About Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Cal Poly is a nationally ranked, comprehensive polytechnic university. The university’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences (cafes.calpoly.edu) is comprised of expert faculty members who take pride in their ability to transform academically motivated students into innovative professionals ready to solve the complex challenges associated with feeding the world in sustainable ways. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, including ranch land, orchards, vineyards and forests, all of which provide the basis for Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing methodology. It is the fifth-largest college of agriculture in the country, with 4,000 undergraduate students.
Contact: AnnMarie Cornejo
805-756-2427; ancornej@calpoly.edu
Cal Poly Celebrates Achievements in Teaching, Research and Service with Inaugural Faculty Excellence Awards
Feb 18, 2025
Feb. 11, 2025
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — Cal Poly has announced the recipients of its inaugural Faculty Excellence Award, which honors outstanding contributions in teaching, research, and creative activities.
Administered by the Office of the Provost and made possible through a generous donor contribution, the award reflects Cal Poly’s commitment to academic excellence. This recognition is part of ongoing efforts to acknowledge and support faculty across campus.
The first recipients of the Faculty Excellence Award are Phoenix (Dongfeng) Fang, Joni Roberts and Shannon Shoff. Nominated by their respective college deans, these faculty members were selected for their significant contributions to their disciplines, commitment to student success and dedication to the Cal Poly community. “This award celebrates the exceptional dedication and achievements of our faculty, who consistently go above and beyond to advance knowledge and foster student success,” said Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Dr. Fang, Dr. Roberts, and Dr. Shoff’s innovative approach to teaching and impactful research, scholarly and creative activities exemplify Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy.”
Phoenix (Dongfeng) Fang is an assistant professor of computer science and software engineering in the College of Engineering, specializing in cybersecurity and privacy. Her research focuses on wireless security, 5G systems, Internet of Things device protection and privacy-preserving healthcare applications, addressing critical challenges in securing modern technological systems. In her teaching, she emphasizes hands-on opportunities for students, equipping them with the skills necessary to tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges. “In a world driven by data, cybersecurity and privacy are not just technologies — they are the guardians of trust, the foundation of safety and the architects of an equitable and just digital future,” Fang said. “It’s an honor to empower my students to develop the skills needed to lead and innovate in securing the technologies we rely on every day.”
Joni Roberts is an assistant professor of kinesiology and public health in the Bailey College of Science and Mathematics, specializing in global health challenges, health education disparities and cultural competency. Her research examines the social determinants of health — such as discrimination and access — and she partners with communities to develop structural solutions for inequities. A recipient of the 2024 40 Under 40 Public Health Catalyst Award, Roberts’ work underscores the impact of cultural beliefs on healthcare decisions, particularly among marginalized populations. She inspires students to approach public health challenges with compassion, cultural awareness, and critical thinking. “I consider myself a global educator. Worldwide, culture really shapes the way people understand things, how they gain access and how they navigate life,” said Roberts, who has led research focusing on marginalized groups and those with few resources, both in the U.S. and abroad. “As I go through the tenure process at Cal Poly, it’s surreal and humbling to see that so many people recognize the things that I'm doing. Words can't really express my excitement.”
Shannon Shoff is an assistant professor of food science and nutrition in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, specializing in early-life nutrition. Using a systems biology approach, her research investigates biochemical pathways and molecular mechanisms to identify effective interventions that promote optimal growth and development. Her work spans metabolomics, microbiome studies and protein abundance, providing innovative solutions to improve early childhood health outcomes. Shoff’s expertise informs her innovative teaching, preparing students for impactful careers in health and nutrition. “I am fascinated by the fact that nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life can have long-lasting implications on development, with negative developmental consequences of both dietary excess and inadequacy,” said Shoff, who is working with a team of students on a study that investigates how antibiotic administration to iron deficient piglets alters their microbiome, metabolism and cognitive development. “This award recognizes the importance of advancing research like ours, where piglets serve as a valuable translational model for human infants that allow us to study how nutrition impacts molecular mechanisms.”
Each recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award receives a monetary award to directly support professional development, research and academic initiatives.
Contact: Matt Lazier
805-756-7109; mlazier@calpoly.edu
Cal Poly Names Brian Horgan as the New Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Jan 23, 2025
Horgan, who currently serves as a professor and associate dean for faculty affairs and development in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University (MSU), brings a wealth of experience and innovative leadership to the role. His past positions include chair of the Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences at MSU, as well as several leadership roles in the Department of Horticultural Science at the University of Minnesota (UMN), including interim head and extension program leader.
“Dr. Horgan’s alignment with Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy and his forward-thinking leadership uniquely position him to guide CAFES into its next chapter of excellence,” said Cynthia Jackson-Elmoore, Cal Poly’s provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. “His expertise will enhance the college’s role as a leader in agricultural innovation and sustainability, ensuring that it continues to make a lasting impact on California and beyond.”
At MSU, Horgan led the development of new majors and minors — the first curriculum update in 30 years — working closely with faculty and students to ensure relevance and impact. He also prioritized building community and promoting diversity of thought, including establishing a highly engaged Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) committee.
“I am honored to join Cal Poly and contribute to the continued growth and success of one of the nation’s leading institutions for agricultural and environmental education,” Horgan said. “I look forward to working alongside the college’s students, faculty and staff to build on its strong foundation of hands-on learning and impactful research.”
An expert in urban green space conservation, Horgan’s academic work focuses on developing systems-based metrics for resource sustainability. During his tenure at UMN, he led the Science of the Green Initiative, which raised funds for infrastructure and endowed graduate fellowships.
Horgan holds a doctorate in natural resources and environmental sciences from the University of Illinois, a master’s degree in crop science from North Carolina State University, and a bachelor’s degree in crop and soil science from Michigan State University.
He and his wife are entering the empty-nest phase as their three daughters embark on their futures. A lover of all things outdoors, he looks forward to exploring the landscapes of the West Coast with his family and their two dogs while they embrace this new chapter of adventure and growth, both personally and professionally.
Contact: Matt Lazier
805-756-7109; mlazier@calpoly.edu
