The University Update — Your Connection to Cal Poly

Gary Charbonneau (Biological Sciences, '89)

Alumnus Gary Charbonneau Honored for Career, Philanthropy and Service

Gary Charbonneau’s journey from Cal Poly cross-country runner to biotech executive is one of grit, growth and giving back. Now a senior leader at Sarepta Therapeutics, he is helping shape the future of genetic medicine while staying closely connected to his alma mater.

From his first plane ride to a race at Notre Dame to co-launching a new course at Cal Poly, Charbonneau (Biological Sciences, ’89) credits his success to curiosity, perseverance and a bit of luck. He’s also making a global impact, helping open a trauma-informed school in Kenya. His path proves you don’t need it all figured out — just the drive to begin.

Dionna Glover, Genesis Glover and Victor Glover

Astronaut Victor Glover Accepts Honorary Degree

This year, Cal Poly Commencement was a joyful family affair for astronaut and Navy Capt. Victor Glover (General Engineering, ‘99).

The alumnus, who accepted an honorary Doctor of Science degree at the College of Engineering ceremony on June 15, celebrated his wife Dionna, a child development major, and eldest daughter and biological sciences major Genesis as they walked across the stage at the Bailey College of Science and Mathematics ceremony the day before.

A Reborn Corpse Flower Blooms on Campus

A few days after Commencement, Cal Poly Plant Conservatory Curator Gage Willey was watering plants in the lowland rainforest section when he noticed a two-foot-tall spadix shooting out of one of the pots: a telltale sign of an upcoming corpse flower bloom.

“Usually we get about three weeks of warning, but this one snuck up on me,” Willey said. A little over a week later, Sneaky was in full bloom and receiving a steady stream of visitors.

Upcoming Alumni Events

•		“Sundaes on Sunday” with the San Luis Obispo Community, Sunday, July 20, 11 a.m.
•		Washington D.C. Community Nationals MLB Game Day, Sunday, July 20, noon
•		Cal Poly Night with the San Francisco Giants, Friday, July 25, 7:15 p.m.
•		Black Alumni Community 2025 Legacy Weekend, Friday, July 25, through Sunday, July 27
•		2025 New Student Send-Off Series, happening on multiple dates and locations in August
•		College of Engineering Alumni Reception in Seattle, Tuesday, Aug. 26, 5:15 p.m.

2026 Trips Have Been Released for Booking!

Exciting news from Cal Poly Travels: 2026 trips are now live. Alumni, friends and travel enthusiasts can explore unforgettable destinations around the world through expertly curated itineraries.

Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, scenic landscapes or rich cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Join a community of fellow Mustangs and create lasting memories.

Space is limited — check out the 2026 lineup and reserve your spot today!

Trelawney Bullis (Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering, '16) and friends smiling for the camera

Meet Trelawney Bullis (Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering, ’16)

“I am excited to get the Tulare/Visalia alumni group started — we have so many alumni in the area, and having a space to network and connect has been great,” said Bullis (pictured above, center), a community leader in the Bakersfield/Tulare area.

“Not only do I get to celebrate Cal Poly in my area, but I also get the chance to give back to a place that gave me so much. I will forever be Cal Poly Proud!”

Find your alumni community and learn more about how you can get involved at the link!

More Alumni News

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Larry Pott (Business Administration, ’86) has been enjoying retired life since 2024 after a career in security solutions.

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Evan Reed (Theater Arts, ’21) runs a community service non-profit in Everett, WA, that organizes trash cleanups and paints free murals for local businesses. His cat is even his CEO (cat executive officer)!

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Nader Heydari (Civil Engineering, ’00) was recently selected to become the director of public works for his hometown at the City of Thousand Oaks, CA.

Read more on the alumni website and submit your own update, at the link below.