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As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the rhythm of this time of year—the rush to finish grading, respond to emails, and complete projects, all while balancing personal commitments and family traditions. It’s a time to pause, appreciate the present, and look ahead with anticipation.
I treasure the connections that come with my own family traditions, from lively meals at a local Chinese restaurant to Christmas morning gift exchanges and Hanukkah candle lighting. These moments, filled with joy and reflection, remind me of the enduring importance of connection, even as life evolves and changes.
I encourage our CLASS community to embody our shared values of inclusion, trust, and support. Let’s express gratitude to our colleagues and staff, who work tirelessly to ensure our college fulfills its mission. Small acts of generosity and recognition not only strengthen our bonds but also replenish our energy and sense of purpose.
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As we move into 2025, I am reminded of the vital role we play as educators in the humanities, performing arts, and social sciences in shaping a thriving and functional society. Let’s close this year with grace—toward ourselves and one another—and take time to celebrate our collective accomplishments. I look forward to returning “bright and shiny” in 2025, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities with the best of intentions.
Camille Johnson, PhD
Dean, College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences
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A Transformational Gift for the
Communication Department
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On November 16th, the Communication Department celebrated a major milestone with the dedication of the Dr. Vinita Dhingra Communication Laboratory in the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences (CLASS).
Made possible by the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Vinita Dhingra and her husband, Ashok Dhingra, this state-of-the-art facility will provide students with access to the latest technology and practical experiences, equipping them to thrive in the rapidly evolving field of communication. Their visionary support will leave a lasting impact on generations of students.
Over the years, Dr. Dhingra’s support has been instrumental in shaping the department, including its Event Planning course, which challenges students to plan and execute high-pressure, public-facing events like COM Day and Alumni Night. The course fosters skills in problem-solving, fundraising, marketing, and leadership, empowering students to build confidence and forge lasting connections.
The dedication of the new lab represents a continuation of this legacy, serving as a hub for innovation and collaboration while celebrating the resilience and creativity of the Communication Department community.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. and Mr. Dhingra for their inspiring commitment to student success and for making this transformative gift a reality!
📹 Click the image below to watch a video recap of this special event!
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GIS Connecting Community: GIS Day 2024 | |
Cal Poly Pomona hosted an engaging Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day 2024, bringing together students, professionals, and community leaders to explore the power of spatial technology. The event opened with remarks from Dean Johnson of the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences (CLASS), setting the stage for a day of learning and inspiration.
The keynote address was delivered by Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval, who highlighted the critical role of GIS in city management and encouraged students to apply their knowledge to serve the public good. A panel discussion featured two industry experts from ESRI and a CPP alum currently at CalTrans, who provided insights into GIS careers and stressed the importance of soft skills alongside technical expertise.
The event also included a vibrant map gallery and an interactive geocaching activity, showcasing GIS's creative applications. GIS Day 2024 not only celebrated innovation but also empowered students to see the transformative potential of geographic information systems in their future endeavors.
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Celebrating Curiousity: World Philosophy Day | |
On November 19th, the Philosophy Department hosted World Philosophy Day, an event created to explore philosophy’s relevance in understanding and navigating the complexities of AI and other pressing issues.
The day’s focus on AI was woven into various sessions, including the keynote address from faculty member Tiffany Zhu, who shared insights on the ethical and societal implications of artificial intelligence. Alumni shared their diverse experiences and accomplishments, highlighting the enduring value of a philosophy education. Ashli Anda reflected on her journey from a student to earning a Ph.D. in Philosophy and becoming a professor at Cal Lutheran, focusing on the justice of punishment practices through the lens of Immanuel Kant's work. Josh Ebiner discussed his path from CPP to Notre Dame Law School and his current role as an attorney in Los Angeles.
Ashli and Josh later joined an alumni panel with Jay Ramzy, an ER technician and CPP Teaching Credential student; Nadin Said, a Senior Deputy City Attorney in Riverside; and Matt Mendoza, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in West Covina. Together, they showcased the diverse career paths philosophy graduates can pursue and the ways their philosophical training informs their professional lives.
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Demystifying Grad School for
First-Generation Students
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As part of First-Gen Week 2024, CLASS partnered with the I Am First program, Weglyn Endowed Chair of Multicultural Studies, and the McNair Scholars Program to host a thought-provoking event centered on the book Is Grad School for Me? Demystifying the Application Process for First-Gen BIPOC Students. Drs. Yvette Martínez-Vu and Miroslava Chávez-García, co-authors of the book, shared their insights on navigating graduate school applications and making advanced education accessible for first-generation, BIPOC students.
The event opened with heartfelt remarks from Dr. Neil S. Chaturvedi, Director of the Weglyn Endowed Chair for Multicultural Studies: “As a first-generation college student myself...Graduate school felt like a mystery. It was only through a bit of luck and mentorship that I realized it was within reach. But it shouldn’t take luck to find that kind of guidance.” Dr. Chaturvedi emphasized the significance of events like this, saying, “We’re here to demystify the process, provide resources, and empower first-gen, BIPOC students to see that grad school is not just an option but an attainable goal if it’s right for them.”
Dr. Martínez-Vu and Dr. Chávez-García then captivated the audience with their experiences and advice. Dr. Chávez-García reflected, “Graduate school opened doors for me that I never thought possible. My hope is to give you the tools and confidence to pursue your dreams.” Dr. Martínez-Vu added, “We want to eliminate the guesswork and ensure you leave here equipped to make informed decisions about your future.” Missed the event? Watch the full session now on the CLASS YouTube channel!
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Celebrating Our 2024-2025 CSU Sally Casanova Scholars! |
CLASS is proud to announce this year’s CSU Sally Casanova Scholars: Nuoyan Li, Luna, and Miriam Sanchez! 🌟 These exceptional students have been selected for their dedication and potential to excel in doctoral programs, marking a significant step toward becoming future leaders in academia.
As Sally Casanova Scholars, Nuoyan, Luna, and Miriam will receive personalized mentorship from CSU faculty and collaborate with experts at doctoral-granting institutions. This prestigious program also provides funding for invaluable opportunities, including:
🔬 Conducting summer research at top institutions
🎓 Exploring doctoral programs through campus visits
🌍 Attending national symposiums and professional meetings
📝 Covering graduate school application and test fees
Congratulations to Nuoyan, Luna, and Miriam on this remarkable achievement!
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Celebrating Performing Arts in CLASS:
Fall 2024 Highlights
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This fall, CLASS delivered an extraordinary lineup of music and theatre performances, showcasing the talent and creativity of the students and faculty of our Music and Theatre departments. The Department of Music captivated audiences with concerts by our CPP Orchestra, Jazz band, Wind Ensemble, and Mariachi Los Broncos. The Songwriter Showcase spotlighted original works by CPP’s emerging musical talent, while piano and choir concerts provided memorable evenings of classical and contemporary music. The semester concluded with the festive Holiday Extravaganza, spreading seasonal cheer through a joyous blend of musical performances.
On the theatre stage, CPP’s Theatre Department brought bold and thought-provoking productions to life. 8 Minutes Left took audiences on a gripping journey into the final moments before an apocalyptic event, We Are Pussy Riot (or Everything is PR) offered a compelling exploration of activism and freedom of speech, and Who Could Have Dared: The Antigone Project reimagined a classic tragedy with a modern perspective.
Looking ahead, Spring 2025 promises even more exciting performances. From jazz and choir concerts to innovative theatre and dance performances, CLASS is preparing for another semester of unforgettable experiences. Mark your calendars and join us as we celebrate the arts in the new year!
Purchase tickets for Music and Theatre and New Dance on our website!
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CLASS Partners with Communication Department to Launch Internship Program | |
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The CLASS Dean’s Office has collaborated with the Communication Department's Internship class to launch an innovative internship program, offering students hands-on experience in social media, development, event planning, copywriting, and more!
This program, spearheaded with the guidance of Professor of Communication, Dr. Kang Hoon Sung, reflects CLASS’s commitment to providing dynamic, Learn by Doing opportunities that prepare students for real-world challenges.
We’re thrilled to welcome our Spring 2025 interns this January and look forward to seeing their creativity and expertise contribute to impactful projects!
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CLASS Four Fridays:
Advancing Faculty Development
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This fall, under Dean Johnson’s leadership, we launched CLASS Four Fridays, a new initiative fostering faculty collaboration and professional growth. Highlights included networking activities, updated headshots, and valuable sessions on tools like Concur and AI, with cross-campus partners like CPP CAFE joining to enhance community connections.
Looking ahead, Spring 2025 offers two exciting events:
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February: “Elevate Your RSCA” – Workshops on digital humanities, community engagement, podcasting, and book publishing to enrich research and creative work.
March: “Educate and Engage” – Discussions on student emotional wellbeing, collaborative programming, and updates on the College’s strategic plan and budget.
Don’t miss these opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. Stay tuned for more details!
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Cross-Departmental Discussion Sets the Stage for Theatre Production
On Thursday, November 21, attendees enjoyed a thought-provoking pre-show discussion before the performance of We Are Pussy Riot. This event was a cross-departmental collaboration, featuring Emeritus Professor Elise K. Wirtschafter (History) and Assistant Professor Valerie Sky (English & Modern Languages). They led a conversation that explored the play through the lens of Russian history and personal experience.
The powerful production of We Are Pussy Riot (or Everything is PR) ran from November 15-24, captivating audiences with its timely themes and compelling performances.
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CLASS Kudos
We want to celebrate your achievements and highlight your incredible work! Fill out a short form to share your recent accomplishments, and you could be featured in our next newsletter!
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Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Ricardo Ortega, '06
Senior Diversity and Compliance Specialist, National University | Gender, Ethnicity, and Multicultural Studies, Class of 2006 | Chair, CLASS Dean’s Circle
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Dr. Ricardo Ortega’s journey from the border town of Calexico, California, to a leadership role in higher education is nothing short of inspiring. A proud graduate of Cal Poly Pomona, Dr. Ortega earned his degree in Gender, Ethnicity, and Multicultural Studies in 2006. During his time at CPP, he served as President of the Mexican American Student Association (MASA) and founded the DREAM Scholarship, which continues to support students today.
After CPP, Dr. Ortega pursued his Doctorate in Chicana/o Studies at UC Santa Barbara. His career has since spanned impactful roles, including positions in Multicultural Affairs at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Gonzaga University, as well as serving as Director of the Center for Equity and Inclusion at the University of Washington Tacoma. Dr. Ortega now resides in Las Vegas with his family.
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Currently, Dr. Ortega is the Senior Diversity and Compliance Specialist at National University and a member of the BIPOC Advisory Board for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. In addition to his professional achievements, he chairs the CLASS Dean’s Circle at CPP.
We celebrate Dr. Ortega’s dedication to equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning. He’s an inspiration to the Bronco community and beyond!
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COM Alumni Night: Forge Your Legacy | |
On November 16, 2024, the Cal Poly Pomona Communication Department hosted the "Forge Your Legacy" Alumni Night at the Kellogg West Conference Center and Hotel. Organized by the COM Event Planning Class, the evening featured a dynamic program, including a keynote speech by Dr. Vinita Dhingra, Professor Emeritus, and an inspiring alumni panel with distinguished graduates such as Tim Mead, President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and Sara Vargas from NBCUniversal.
Attendees enjoyed a networking cocktail hour, a trivia game, and a silent auction. The event celebrated the achievements of alumni while fostering connections among attendees, exemplifying the department’s commitment to its vibrant community.
Click the photo below to watch a video recap of this memorable evening! 🎥
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video created by Phoenix Guevara, ASI Communications Supervisor | |
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BRONCO MENTORING NETWORK
The CPP Bronco Mentoring Network, our career-mentoring and advice-sharing network, makes it easy for you to connect with others in the Cal Poly Pomona community!
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March 10-14, 2025 | Professor for a Day
Mark your calendars for the Alumni Professor for a Day Program in March 2025! This special event offers alumni the opportunity to return to campus, teach a class, and connect with students. Share your real-world experiences, demonstrate how your education shaped your career, and inspire the next generation of professionals. Interested in participating? Contact External Relations Associate Noelle McKinn at ncmckinn@cpp.edu for more details.
April 12, 2025 | Bronco Bound
Mark your calendars! Bronco Bound, Cal Poly Pomona’s exclusive event for newly admitted students, returns this spring semester. Join us for an exciting day filled with campus tours, meet-and-greets with faculty, and a chance for prospective students to explore all the opportunities that await at CPP. Stay tuned for the official date and more details coming soon!
May 18, 2025 | Commencement
The CLASS Commencement ceremonies are set to take place in the University Quad on May 18, 2025. Seniors applying for Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Summer 2025 graduation are invited to participate in this memorable celebration. For more details and updates, visit the Commencement website. 🎓
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Performing Arts at CPP
Come see CPP students in action via our music and theatre performances. Concerts and shows are available in December and in the Spring semester! Access the Theatre Box Office and Music Box Office for tickets below.
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Music Department
Spring 2025 Concert Season
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Don't miss musical performances from CPP student ensembles and faculty this Fall! Enjoy concerts featuring jazz, orchestra, mariachi, piano, musical theatre, and more.
Fall concert dates that will be announced soon! Visit the Music Department website for more information.
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Theatre and New Dance
Spring 2025 Season
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Exciting Theatre and New Dance productions are coming to Cal Poly Pomona this Fall! Stay tuned for the official dates and prepare to be entertained by the skills and depth of our talented students.
Click the button below to learn more about our Theatre and New Dance Department.
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Building Bridges Through Social Action:
Dr. Bianca N. Haro's Sociology Senior Seminar
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Dr. Bianca N. Haro’s Sociology Senior Seminar, The Sociological Landscape of Pomona, California, is breaking boundaries by partnering with Gente Organizada, a Pomona-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth and immigrant families. Through this collaboration, students analyze the city’s history, explore patterns of social inequity, and engage in real-world advocacy efforts.
This partnership also extended to the creation of The Unheard Voices of Pomona-Toibinga, a documentary exploring the history and resilience of the Gabrielino-Tongva people. Funded by California Humanities, the film highlights the impacts of colonization and the enduring presence of Indigenous communities. Keep an eye out for the documentary screening in the Spring. Read the full article on our CLASS News page!
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Story written by CLASS Editorial Intern, Adriana Flores Solis ('25, Communication) | |
CCEP Ethics and Policy Podcast: Season 4 | |
Founded in 2018, the California Center for Ethics and Policy (CCEP) at Cal Poly Pomona tackles some of the most pressing national and global challenges, including climate policy, healthcare, artificial intelligence, immigration, and racism, all through a unique Californian perspective.
The CCEP podcast brings together students, artists, philosophers, social scientists, and advocates to engage in debates, tell stories, and share transformative ideas.
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CCEP has recently launched Season 4, where they dive into the complexities of misinformation and its impact on various aspects of our lives.
Catch up on the latest episodes now on Apple, Google, Spotify, Podcast Addict, and Podbean. Don’t miss out!
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Explore Books by CLASS Faculty | |
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Immerse yourself in knowledge and creativity with books authored by our esteemed faculty. From groundbreaking research to thought-provoking stories, these works highlight the expertise and passions of our academic community. Discover your next great read today!
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Don't Miss a Beat with
The Poly Post!
Stay up-to-date on the latest Cal Poly Pomona student news and subscribe to student-run newspaper - The Poly Post!
A staff of student journalists provides news to the campus community online through thepolypost.com, The Poly Post app for iPhone or Android, and through a weekly print edition available across campus every Tuesday.
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Give Back this
holiday Season!
This holiday season, we invite you to contribute to the CLASS Excellence Fund, which provides the flexible funding the college needs to implement innovative ideas, meet its highest priority needs, respond quickly to emergencies, and invest in areas of the highest potential.
To make a gift, click on the button below or contact Marissa Garcia via email, mcgarcia1@cpp.edu or call 909-869-2310!
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We hope this holiday season brings you joy, rest, and quality time with loved ones. May the New Year be filled with new opportunities, exciting challenges, and continued success! | |
Connect with CLASS on social media! | | | | |