PACE SETTERS SPRING 2026 NEWSLETTER | |
President's Message
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Connection, Celebration, and Opportunities Ahead
Happy Spring Pace Setters Members!
I hope you’ll be joining our spring luncheon on Thursday, April 23rd; please remember to RSVP. It’s always a pleasure to come together and catch up on the latest developments at CPP. Plus, it’s inspiring to watch our CPP students grow in confidence as they apply what they’re learning in real time, preparing and serving our tasty lunches. This year, we will again award three Pace Setters Scholarships. Thank you for your generous contributions to the Pace Setters Scholarship Fund.
I hope you will consider serving on our Board. There will be four openings for Board members beginning July 1, 2026, each for a three-year term. Board membership is a meaningful and manageable way to be of service.
Keep reading to see highlights of Pace Setters activities these past months, which include an enjoyable tour of the College of Environmental Design’s Lyle Center, as well as two memorable days in December: One spent feeding our incredible Rose Float students, and another helping bring our Rose Parade Float to life during Deco Week.
I’m excited for all that’s ahead and hope to see you soon! May these updates bring a smile, spark a good memory, or inspire you to reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.
Warm regards,
Lisa Kessler
Pace Setters President
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Celebrate with Us!
Pace Setters 45th Anniversary Luncheon
You won’t want to miss this special celebration as we mark the 45th Anniversary of Pace Setters at our Spring Luncheon!
Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Restaurant at Kellogg Ranch, Cal Poly Pomona. Check-in begins at 11:00 a.m., followed by lunch and the program at 11:45 a.m.
Enjoy a festive afternoon reconnecting with friends, meeting fellow members, and celebrating the Pace Setters community. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Iris Levine, Interim President of Cal Poly Pomona, and Brian Swanson, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, who will share campus updates and insights.
We hope you will make plans to attend and celebrate with us.
Please mail in your reservation by April 8, or you can reserve your spot at the link: HERE
If you would like to support student scholarships, please consider making a donation: HERE
| | | Next Event Happening Soon! | | | Tour of the CA Citrus State Historic Park
Friday May 1
9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, CA
Meet at 9:30 a.m.
After the tour, have lunch together (pay individually)
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. Visitors can learn about the agricultural heritage of California, the development of the citrus industry, and the role it played in shaping the state's economy and culture. Parking fee may be required.
Please RSVP by April 24 HERE
| | | Member Spotlight: Mike “Doc” and Tina Shelton | | |
Few couples embody the Cal Poly Pomona spirit of “learn by doing” more fully than Mike “Doc” and Tina Shelton. Their shared journey—rooted in engineering, education, mentorship, and service—has left a lasting impact on generations of students and the broader university community. Combined, they have over 110 years of involvement with CPP.
A Partnership Built at Cal Poly Pomona
Both Doc and Tina are CPP engineering graduates. He went on to USC to obtain two Master's degrees and his PhD. After working 15 years for General Dynamics, Mike returned to CPP to serve as a professor and later as department chair of the Mechanical Engineering Department. During his tenure, he helped shape curriculum, developed workshops for the Minority Engineering Program (MEP), mentored students, upgraded lab equipment, guided faculty, and so much more. Tina earned both her bachelor’s (BS Civil Engr) and master’s (MS Mech Engr) degrees at CPP. After a few years working in industry, she too returned to CPP. As the College Engineering Advocate, she worked with alumni, student groups, faculty, staff, and industry reps to advance the college initiatives. In 1981, Doc and Tina’s paths first crossed at CPP, and the professional collaboration grew into a lifelong partnership grounded in shared values: education, student success, and hands-on learning. After 43 years of marriage, they are still the best of friends.
Leading Innovation: The Solar Car Project
One of Doc and Tina’s most impactful collaborations was their leadership of the Cal Poly Pomona Solar Energy Team (CaPSET). For over a decade, they worked side-by-side along with other faculty to advise student teams who designed, built, and raced solar-powered vehicles. These student-led projects were far more than technical exercises—they were immersive, real-world engineering experiences while competing at a high level against teams from around the world. In 1992 CPP was selected by the Department of Energy as one of four teams to represent the United States in the Grand Solar Challenge, Japan. They proudly brought home first-place in the College category.
Giving Back to Future Engineers
The Sheltons’ commitment to students has not been limited to their teaching jobs or with CaPSET. Since Doc and Tina are both first in their families to attend college, they generously funded one of Cal Poly Pomona’s President’s Scholarships. One small way to help reduce barriers and open doors for a deserving innovator.
From Pennies to Purpose: “Penny Finders”
What began as a simple habit during daily walks—picking up pennies and loose change—unexpectedly grew into something much more meaningful. Doc and Tina turned this small act into “Penny Finders,” a lighthearted but purposeful movement that reflects their outlook on life: noticing small things, valuing consistency, and turning everyday moments into opportunities for gratitude and impact. See the Penny Finders Website.
Post Retirement Activities
Since retiring in 2008 (Doc) and 2010 (Tina), the Sheltons have remained as busy as ever. They claim there has yet to be one single day where they accomplished Tina’s “Action Items for Today”. A few of the highlights in these recent years: Completing their collection of coffee mugs from all 50 US States, travels to Australia, Europe, North & Central America, Africa, building their dream home (the Penny Palace), writing Penny Tales, The PennyFinders Guidebook, and Tales from the Penny Palace, creating the Garden of Hope which earned the award for Home of the Year 2022, Drought Tolerant Yard, and numerous medical “detours.”
A Lasting Legacy
Doc and Tina Shelton’s story is one of partnership, persistence, and purpose. From classrooms and competitions to scholarships and simple acts of kindness, they exemplify what it means to live out Cal Poly Pomona’s mission—both on campus and beyond. Their legacy is not only found in the programs they led or the funds they established, but in the countless students they inspired and the community they continue to enrich.
| | Solar Flair at Uluru/Ayers Rock, Australia | Fifty State Coffee Mug Collection | | The Penny Palace--Many years in the making | | Pace Setters Tour of the Lyle Center for Regenerative Studies | | |
On Monday, March 23, Pace Setters toured the Lyle Center for Regenerative Studies, guided by longtime staff member Debbie Scheider, who has been involved with the Center since its early years.
Located on 16 acres within the university campus, the Lyle Center serves as a “living laboratory” dedicated to sustainable and regenerative living through education, research, and community outreach. During the tour, participants observed how the Center integrates ecological, social, and economic systems to demonstrate practical solutions for environmental challenges.
Scheider highlighted the Center’s interdisciplinary programs, including a successful undergraduate minor that attracts students from across campus. Visitors learned about energy-efficient design features such as passive heating and cooling, as well as water systems, including ponds that help regulate temperature. The site also showcases sustainable agriculture, with gardens, orchards, and hundreds of fruit trees supporting both campus use and community needs.
The group was especially interested in the Center’s hands-on approach, where students live, work, and study sustainability practices in real-world settings. From composting and aquaculture to habitat support for migratory birds, the tour illustrated how the Lyle Center embodies Cal Poly Pomona’s “learn by doing” philosophy while preparing students to address future environmental challenges.
The Lyle Center can house up to 24 students under various programs in spacious quarters. Unfortunately, the facility was vacant during COVID, and some of the facility’s infrastructure deteriorated and needs to be upgraded before the housing facilities can be reoccupied. The exterior renovation has been completed and funding for the interior repairs is planned. Plans are also underway to enable the center to host larger tours and field trips in the future.
Text Link
| | | 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! | |
Pace Setters Helping in the Classroom
Dear Pace Setters Board Members,
I appreciate the support provided by Pace Setters in sending representatives and refreshments on November 12th. Several Pace Setter members (Lisa Kessler, David Craig, Peggy Perry, and I) joined faculty and advisors from the Management and Human Resources Department in the College of Business Administration to meet with MHR students enrolled in their capstone courses. The students reported that their confidence levels rose after these interactions. It was affirming to them to hear such positive feedback.
I am so grateful to Pace Setters for supporting my students. I look forward to my continued participation in this wonderful organization. It is clear the members of Pace Setters continue to value the interaction they have with Cal Poly students.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Almaraz
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Healthy Eating for Seniors
Dr. Bonny Burns-Whitmore
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At the suggestion of a few Pace Setters members, we spiced up our monthly Zoom mini-gathering in March with a special presentation by Pace Setters Member, Dr. Bonny Burns-Whitmore. Bonny is an expert and researcher in the field of nutrition for seniors and was successful in keeping us engaged and informed. Below is a summary of her presentation:
Overview of a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is based on the principles of adequacy, balance, calorie control, nutrient density, moderation, and variety. These principles emphasize meeting nutrient needs while avoiding excess calories.
Key Nutrients for Aging Adults
Important nutrients include calcium, vitamin D, and potassium for bone health; vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids for brain and nerve function; fiber and fluids for digestive health; and protein combined with physical activity to preserve muscle mass. Limiting saturated fats, sodium, and added sugars is also essential to reduce chronic disease risk.
Common Dietary Challenges
Older adults may face challenges such as reduced appetite, changes in taste or smell, dental issues, medication interactions, and social or financial barriers. These factors can negatively impact nutritional intake and overall health.
Using MyPlate for Balanced Eating
MyPlate provides a simple visual guide for balanced meals. Adapting MyPlate for calorie control includes choosing whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Importance of Hydration - Adequate hydration—approximately 1.5 to 3.5 liters per day—is critical for preventing dehydration-related risks and supporting digestion, joints, and cognition.
Understanding Nutrition Labels
Reading nutrition labels helps individuals understand serving sizes, calorie intake, and nutrient content, enabling better food choices and portion control.
Conclusion
The presentation emphasized empowering seniors with practical knowledge and tools to maintain their health, independence, and overall wellbeing.
| | Pace Setters Add Their Touch to Award-Winning Float | | |
Each year, Pace Setters volunteers play an important role in supporting the Cal Poly Universities Rose Float—and just as importantly, they have a great time doing it.
Hot Dog Lunch
On December 16, Pace Setters hosted a hot dog lunch for approximately 150 student volunteers from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona at the Rose Float Lab on campus. The students were hard at work putting the final touches on the float’s structure and animations before its move to Pasadena, and the lunch provided a welcome break and a chance to connect.
Deco Week
The excitement continued during “Deco Week,” the period between Christmas and New Year’s when the float is covered entirely with flowers and other natural materials. On Monday of that week, Pace Setters members and their families joined the students in Pasadena to help with final preparations—trimming, sorting, and placing flowers, all while enjoying the festive atmosphere. For many volunteers, this is a highlight of the year. It’s a chance to work side-by-side with students, contribute to a long-standing Cal Poly tradition, and share in the pride of seeing the finished float on parade day.
Sweepstakes Award!
This year made the experience even more special. Cal Poly Universities earned the Sweepstakes Award—the Rose Parade’s most prestigious honor—for its float, “Jungle Jumpstart.” It was a proud moment for the students and for everyone who helped support their efforts.
Thank you to all who participated and helped make this year’s Rose Float another success.
| | Cal Poly Universities float "Jungle Jumpstart" won the coveted "Sweepstakes Award" for the top float award in 2026 | Pace Setters serving 150 students who were on campus working on the float | Students are hard at work in Pomona installing the animation mechanics and shaping the float before decoration in Pasadena. | | Pace Setters ready to feed students from the Pomona and SLO campuses who are working while on Winter Break at the Rose Float Lab | Hot dog grilling crew hard at work! | Pace Setters member, Betty Tracy and her family in Pasadena during Deco Week, helping prepare the roses that will adorn the float. | | Remembering Art Parker—Teacher, Mentor, Friend
Dr. Arthur F. Parker, Jr., a beloved member of the Cal Poly Pomona community and longtime participant in Pace Setters, passed away on October 13, 2025. He was 82.
Art joined Cal Poly Pomona in 1976 as a professor in Food Marketing and Agribusiness Management and Agricultural Education, following the completion of his Ph.D. at the University of Florida. He had previously earned his B.S. from Clemson University in 1966 and his M.S.A. from the University of Florida in 1968. Over the course of his distinguished career, Art became widely respected not only for his academic contributions but also for his deep commitment to students and colleagues.
A dedicated teacher, Art cared deeply for his students, coaching teams, and mentoring with patience, compassion, and a gentle spirit. His leadership and service were recognized in 2000 when he received the prestigious George P. Hart Award for Outstanding Faculty Leadership.
In retirement, Art remained active in the university community through Pace Setters, serving as Vice President until shortly before his passing. He and his wife, Sandy, were valued and engaged members of the group.
Art will be remembered as “wonderfully human”—kind, generous, intelligent, and full of humor. His daughter, Jennifer, recalled his reliability, love of numbers, and playful spirit, especially his enjoyment of Disneyland adventures and simple pleasures like ice cream and milkshakes. Colleagues remember his leadership, vitality, and enduring sense of love and peace.
Art Parker leaves behind a legacy of service, warmth, and impact that will not be forgotten.
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Stay Informed and Connected with Cal-ERFSA
Pace Setters members may wish to consider joining the California State University Emeritus and Retired Faculty and Staff Association (Cal-ERFSA), a statewide organization dedicated to supporting CSU retirees.
Cal-ERFSA provides valuable resources and advocacy on issues that matter to retirees, including retirement benefits, health care, and legislative developments affecting the CSU system. The organization also offers opportunities to stay informed and engaged through its newsletter, programs, and statewide network of colleagues.
Membership dues are modest, and a portion of those dues from Cal Poly Pomona members is returned directly to Pace Setters, helping support our local programs and activities.
Many members, including those within Pace Setters, have expressed appreciation for Cal-ERFSA’s work—particularly its unique role as a statewide “watchdog” monitoring policies and decisions that affect CSU retirees. If you are interested in learning more or joining, please visit www.csuerfsa.org.
CSU ERFSA Information
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Board Transitions and Heartfelt Thanks
Three valued members of the Pace Setters Board of Directors—Debbi McFall, David Speak, and Robbie Myers—will be stepping down from the board for personal reasons. Please join us in thanking each of them for their outstanding service. They have all been a pleasure to work with.
Debbi served on the Board for an incredible 10 years, contributing significantly to both the Scholarship and Membership Committees. Her dedication has made a lasting impact. David was an excellent liaison between Pace Setters and ERFSA, providing valuable insight and strengthening an important connection. Robbie served diligently as a member-at-large, organizing student-focused, social, and educational activities that have enriched our programs. Thank you!
They will all remain with the board through June 30, and plan to stay involved in events and activities moving forward.
We are also pleased to share that Jeanne Almaraz has agreed to be nominated for the Board. Jeanne, thank you for stepping forward—your energy and contributions to scholarships and planning are already making a difference.
Please join us in thanking Debbi, David, and Robbie—and in welcoming Jeanne.
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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Scholarship News
Do you want to help Cal Poly students succeed? Please donate to the Pace Setters Scholarship fund! Since 2014, we have awarded $48,000 in student scholarships. That’s amazing and it is because our members have donated so generously. Thank you!
Our 2025 scholarship recipients, each awarded $2500, were: Aryan Ramaswamy, Liana D. Terrill, and Sierra A. Gonzalez. Recipients are invited to our spring or fall luncheons so members can meet them.
You can support these outstanding Cal Poly students at Pace Setters Donation or by sending a check payable to Cal Poly Foundation/Pace Setters Scholarship (be sure to include “scholarship” on the notation line) and mail it to the address below:
Cal Poly Pomona
University Advancement/Pace Setters
3801 W Temple Ave.
Pomona, CA 91768
If you would like to support student scholarships, please consider making a donation: HERE
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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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