PACE SETTERS FALL 2025 NEWSLETTER | |
President's Message
Staying Connected, Giving Back, Having Fun!
Dear Pace Setters Members,
As we enter this autumn season and Thanksgiving time, I am thankful for the time I worked at Cal Poly Pomona. I feel fortunate to have been part of an institution with an important mission where I felt fulfilled working with inspiring and dedicated students. I also made wonderful friends there.
Pace Setters provides an opportunity to continue to connect with Cal Poly Pomona and the people there. Pace Setters provides several scholarships each year and our members stay connected with CPP through events and activities. We are adding more events that involve our students. I do hope these will interest you and that you will participate.
There is one event in November that you can read about and register for in this newsletter. We will be providing lunch for the Student Rose Float Volunteers on Tuesday, December 16th. More to come on that!
So far this year, 21 new folks have joined Pace Setters. Please renew if you haven't already, and encourage retired CPP friends to join if they haven't done so yet. Together we can continue to make a positive impact on Cal Poly Pomona, learn, and have fun!
Warm regards,
Lisa Kessler, Pace Setters President
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Spring Luncheon
Our Spring Luncheon highlighted passionate farewell presentations by Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley and Pace Setters President Kathy Harcharik. After many years of service to the university community, they discussed the past, present, and future.
President Soraya M. Coley Announces Retirement
After a decade of dedicated service as president, Dr. Soraya M. Coley has stepped down from her role at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (CPP) this summer. She leaves behind a legacy of student-first leadership, campus growth, and greater access for all.
At the Spring luncheon, President Coley reflected on her journey—from working since the age of 15 to leading a polytechnic committed to “high access, high earnings” and “future paths.” Among her highlights are awarding numerous scholarships, launching the Clothes Closet and Care Center to meet students' basic needs, and sharing the story of an older student who needed a suit.
Under her guidance, the university achieved an R2 research designation, constructed new student housing, and built the Student Services Building, while expanding its advising and career guidance efforts. She emphasized that CPP remains “a leader in social mobility” and celebrates diversity while building excellence.
President Coley expressed gratitude to the faculty, staff, and students who, together, brought her vision to life—and now she looks forward to a well-deserved next chapter with her husband, Ron, cruise plans in hand and a life jacket ready.
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A Grateful Farewell from Dr. Kathy Harcharik: Fourteen Years of Pace Setters in Motion
As Dr. Kathy Harcharik concluded her 14 years as President of the Cal Poly Pomona Pace Setters, she reflected on a remarkable journey of connection, celebration, and service. With her characteristic humility and heart for people, Kathy shared how Pace Setters has stayed in motion—building bridges between retirees, students, faculty, and staff from 2011 through 2025.
Busy Communicating!
Under her leadership, communication flourished. What began as a simple paper newsletter grew into an electronic publication shared at least twice a year. Monthly virtual chats became a lifeline for retirees to reconnect and share stories. Kathy believed that staying connected was more than a goal—it was a commitment to community.
Good at Celebrating
Pace Setters also became known for celebrating milestones with joy and gratitude. Three major anniversary events—our 30th, 35th, and 40th—brought laughter, memories, and friendship to life. Twice each year, luncheons offered opportunities to rekindle relationships and welcome new retirees into the fold.
Proudly Giving Awards to Students, Faculty, and Staff!
Perhaps one of Kathy’s proudest accomplishments was expanding the organization’s tradition of giving back. What began as a single $500 student scholarship has grown into three $2,500 awards each year, empowering students to pursue their dreams. Pace Setters also extended generosity to faculty and staff, providing at least $500 annually to recognize their ongoing contributions to the Cal Poly Pomona community.
Been Out and About
Always looking beyond the campus borders, Kathy ensured Pace Setters stayed “out and about,” organizing at least two field trips each year. These outings blended fun and fellowship while reminding members that learning and exploration never end.
Staying Associated With CPP!
Finally, Kathy strengthened the organization’s partnership with Cal Poly Pomona, fostering strong relationships with university leadership and many divisions across campus, making Pace Setters an integral part of the CPP family.
As we thank Kathy for her years of service, we honor her be-of-service attitude, genuine warmth, and unwavering belief that connection is the heartbeat of community.
| | | | Next Event Happening Soon! | | | Thursday
November 13, 2025
9400 Dufferin Ave. Riverside, CA 92504
California Citrus State Historic Park is a living museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and significance of the California Citrus Industry. The park covers over 250 acres and features groves of citrus trees, historic buildings, interpretive exhibits, and guided tours.
Meet at 10 a.m.
Free Tour from 10:15- 11:15 a.m.
Parking $7.00
After the tour, have lunch together (pay individually) at Olive Garden
Click Here for all the details and to RSVP by Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 8am
| | | Spotlight on New Member and New Board Member, Dr. Jeanne Almaraz: Leader, Innovator, and Student Advocate | | |
Pace Setters proudly welcome Dr. Jeanne Almaraz, newly appointed Member-at-Large on the Pace Setters’ Board and recently retired Professor Emerita from the College of Business Administration. Jeanne’s 25 years of dedicated service at Cal Poly Pomona have left a lasting imprint on students, faculty, and academic programs across campus.
A proud UC Irvine alumna with both a Ph.D. in Management and an M.B.A. Jeanne has long been known for her student-centered leadership. She taught courses in leadership, organizational behavior, internships, and career design, and her research centered on student transition, leadership, and organizational change.
Her many leadership roles include Department Chair of Management and Human Resources, Interim Associate Dean of Academics and Student Success Innovations, and Dean’s Faculty Fellow for Student Success. She spearheaded transformative initiatives such as the Supplemental Instruction Program, First-Year Peer Mentor Program, and the CSU Student Success Analytics Certificate Program, each advancing student learning, engagement, and retention.
In addition to her administrative and teaching excellence, Jeanne contributed significantly to faculty development, curricular innovation, and university governance. She has many peer-reviewed publications and awards for her contributions to the academic community. Her friendly, approachable nature made her a trusted colleague and mentor.
Now enjoying the Faculty Early Retirement Program (FERP), Jeanne plans to spend more time with her five grandchildren, continue singing in the Diocesan Choir at Christ Cathedral in Orange, and travel with her husband—beginning with a June trip to Germany.
Jeanne’s warmth, enthusiasm, and lifelong dedication to student success embody the spirit of the Pace Setters community.
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W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center Tour
| | Pace Setters visiting the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center. | | Pace Setters learned a lot about the breeding program at Cal Poly Pomona | | Kelly Piña leading the tour of the Arabian Horse Center. | | |
Tour Highlights
On May 6, 2025, the Cal Poly Pomona Pace Setters enjoyed a memorable tour of the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Center, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Our group was warmly welcomed by Kelly Piña, Administrative Analyst/Specialist and longtime member of the Center’s dedicated team. Pace Setters were the first public audience to see the 100th Anniversary Celebration Video!
During the tour, we explored the stables, observed training and grooming activities, and learned about the world-renowned Arabian horse breeding program. We also gained an appreciation for the unique history of the Horse Center—founded in 1925 by cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg, whose dream was to develop one of the finest Arabian breeding programs in the world.
Sunday Arabian Horse Shows
The famous Sunday Shows remain a centerpiece of the Horse Center, delighting the public with demonstrations of the beauty, athleticism, and spirit of Arabian horses. Shows are held at 2:00 p.m. on the Second Sunday of each month, October through May.
TeachingHorse: Leadership for the Future
Our tour introduced us to TeachingHorse, an innovative program that uses equine behavior to teach leadership in uncertain times—helping participants become more agile, human-centered, and future-ready.
Horses for Heroes: Serving Veterans
We also learned about Horses for Heroes, a special program in partnership with Cal Poly Pomona’s Veterans Resource Center. While not a therapeutic program for PTSD, it incorporates valuable coping skills and fosters well-being, giving veterans the chance to connect with animals and focus on the present moment.
A Legacy of Excellence
From its beginnings under W.K. Kellogg to its role as an Army horse-breeding site during World War II and its transfer to Cal Poly Pomona in 1949, the Arabian Horse Center has continually evolved while maintaining its founder’s vision. The Pace Setters came away inspired—not only by the horses themselves, but by the rich history, forward-looking programs, and ongoing contributions of the Arabian Horse Center to Cal Poly Pomona and beyond.
| | Don't Miss Our Monthly Zoom Mini-gatherings! | | Our mini-gatherings are held the third Thursday of most months from 11:00-12:00 noon Pacific Time. Join Pace Setters from across the country for a time of fellowship and catching up! Watch your email for the reminder email with the Zoom link! | |
Fall Luncheon
October 28, 2025
The Fall Luncheon featured one of our largest crowds and was rich with buzz and recognition. Interim President Iris Levine updated Pace Setters about the Presidential search, a scholarship was awarded, and Staff Emeriti were recognized.
| | Pace Setters President Lisa Kessler with Staff Emeritus Patty Mutz and her family | Scholarship Recipient Aryan Ramaswamy, Lisa Kessler, Staff Emeritus Holly Greene | | Lisa addressing a full house at the Restaurant at Kellogg Ranch | Interim President Iris Levine updating Pace Setters | |
Update from Interim President Iris Levine
Dr. Iris Levine, Interim President of Cal Poly Pomona, spoke warmly and sincerely to the Pace Setters membership, providing an engaging update on the university's current initiatives and accomplishments. She expressed her genuine appreciation for the retirees, faculty, and staff, recognizing their lasting contributions to the campus community and the university’s continued success.
Dr. Levine began by announcing that the search for a new university president is underway, with an expected completion date in March, followed by an official announcement. She highlighted the upcoming Centennial Celebration of the Arabian Horse Center, a proud part of Cal Poly Pomona’s heritage that traces back to the W.K. Kellogg Gift, emphasizing the Center’s legacy of science, care, and compassion.
Dr. Levine also celebrated Cal Poly Pomona’s growing reputation for excellence on both local and global stages. The College of Business Administration now ranks in the top 6% nationally, and the university as a whole has achieved impressive recognition—#22 among Best Colleges and #15 in Social Mobility—with additional honors for its polytechnic model and quality of teaching.
She reiterated that Cal Poly Pomona changes lives, noting the transformative power of its programs and the meaningful opportunities it provides for students from all backgrounds. Dr. Levine closed by thanking the faculty and staff for their dedication and resilience, describing the university community as inventive, forward-looking, and deeply committed to its mission of student success.
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Congratulations to Staff Emeriti
Staff Emeriti were recognized by Marla Williams, Administrative Operations Specialist, EODA
| | Staff Emeritus David Craig | Staff Emeritus Patricia Mutz | | Staff Emeritus Kathy Hine | Staff Emeritus Holly Greene | |
Three Scholarships Awarded
Three Pace Setters $2500 Scholarships were awarded this year to Aryan Ramaswamy (Computer Science), Liana Terrill (Civil Engineering), and Sierra Gonzalez (Chemical Engineering). Aryan was recognized at our Fall Luncheon by Pace Setters Vice President Barbara Jean Bruin. Liana and Sierra couldn't make it to the Fall Luncheon and will be recognized later.
Aryan is a sophomore at Cal Poly Pomona studying Computer Engineering with a minor in Data Science. He grew up in Arcadia, California, and is involved in the Northrop Grumman Collaboration Project and Maximizing Engineering Potential (MEP). During the summer, he interned at Verizon as a Network Engineering Intern, where he worked on predicting potential savings and operating expense reductions from solar and high-efficiency battery projects. At Cal Poly Pomona, his goals include becoming involved in computer science research and taking on leadership roles in student organizations. After graduation, he hopes to work as a software engineer or data scientist at a major technology company and possibly start his own startup in the educational technology industry. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, trying new foods, and spending time with friends and family.
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Thank you to the Pace Setter members who volunteered at the long-standing Fall event, The Hot Dog Caper! Volunteers help to feed Cal Poly Pomona students at a wonderful and festive event! The Pace Setters volunteers were: Robbie Myers, Patricia Quezada, David Quezada, Art Sutton, Shelly Montoya, Kim Allen, John Pohlman, Lyn Pohlman, Jeff Mio, Peggy Perry and Lisa Kessler. What a great experience! | | | |
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CSU ERFSA Brief Update
At the Fall Luncheon, our ERFSA representative, Dave Speak encouraged Pace Setter members to join ERFSA (Emeritus and Retired Faculty & Staff Association). ERFSA is the only organization that CSU retirees can look to for monitoring and sharing information from the State, CSU, CFA, and CalPERS that affects us. ERPSA members can attend statewide meetings, but Dave's hope for the future is to create clusters of local affiliates that can have more convenient and regular regional meetings. See the link below for membership information.
CSU ERFSA Information
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In Memory of Art Parker
Dr. Art Parker was a beloved and highly respected member of the faculty in the Food Marketing and Agribusiness Management Program in the College of Agriculture. Known for his kindness, humility, and quiet wisdom, Art touched the lives of countless students and colleagues throughout his long and distinguished career.
A proud graduate of Clemson University (B.S., 1966), Art went on to earn his M.S.A. (1968) and Ph.D. (1973) at the University of Florida before joining the faculty at Cal Poly Pomona in 1976. His dedication to excellence in teaching, mentorship, and service made him a valued member of the university community. In recognition of his exceptional leadership and commitment to students and colleagues alike, Art received the prestigious George P. Hart Award for Outstanding Faculty Leadership in 2000.
Even after retirement, Art continued to serve and inspire others. He and his wife, Sandy, remained active in Pace Setters where Art most recently served as Vice President of the Board. His warmth, humor, and steady presence enriched every gathering.
Art will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A memorial service is being planned for early 2026, providing an opportunity for friends, family, and former colleagues to come together and celebrate a life marked by kindness, scholarship, and service.
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Faculty Day 2025
Thursday April 17
Faculty Day is a long-standing tradition in which all CPP faculty — full-time, part-time, retired, new, and those in between are invited to enjoy lunch and spend time with colleagues. Pace Setters helped sponsor Faculty Day as well as Staff Development Week earlier in the year!
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Bookstore Discount for Pace Setters
Nov. 10 - Dec. 10
Pace Setters Members are invited to enjoy a special CPP Bookstore discount of 20% on all CPP gear as a token of appreciation. The Bookstore website is here.
The Discount will apply from November 10 through December 10. Upon checkout, when you get to your cart, there will be a field to enter the code. The code is PaceSetters1125.
Thank you, Bookstore, for supporting Pace Setters.
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Employee & Organizational Development & Advancement (EODA) Opportunities
According to Marla Williams, Administrative Operations Specialist, EODA has some fantastic opportunities for Pace Setters members to return to campus and take part in. They range from workshops to campus tours. and are open to both current and former faculty and staff members. An example of a recent opportunities was a Public Speaking Workshop. For more information, please visit the link below. After clicking on the link, go to Open Sessions.
EDOA Opportunities
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Board Update
Welcome to the board our two newest members, Doug Nelson and Jeanne Almaraz.
Doug Nelson recently retired from Cal Poly Pomona as Senior Associate Vice President for University Development and was recently elected to the Board. Over the years, Doug has provided the Pace Setters Board with tremendous guidance and support.
Dr. Jeanne Almaraz was recently appointed Member-at-Large. Jeanne now in the Faculty Early Retirement Program after a 25-year career in the Management and Human Resources Department at Cal Poly Pomona.
Betty Tracy has stepped down from the Board as Treasurer and Acting Secretary, having served for 19 years. Betty has graciously agreed to continue as acting secretary on a non-voting basis until a new secretary can be identified.
You can find a complete list of the current board on the Pace Setters website at: Pace Setters Board of Directors
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Have you done something new and exciting lately?
Do you have a suggestion for an event or tour that would interest Pace Setters members? We always look for exciting and fun things to do in the Greater Los Angeles area. Please email your suggestions to Robbie Myers at myers91709@aol.com
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Clothes Closet
The Clothes Closet offers assistance to students seeking to obtain suitable attire for an interview, a career fair, a conference, or their first week of work. We invite you to support our students in one or more ways. Donate new or gently used professional clothing or suitcases to the CPP Clothes Closet. Please see the link below for more information.
The Clothes Closet
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3801 West Temple Avenue
Pomona, CA 91768
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