The University Update — Your Connection to Cal Poly

Cal Poly graduates wearing cap and gown, smiling for the camera.

Congratulations, Class of 2025!

We’re thrilled to welcome the Class of 2025 into the Cal Poly alumni family this weekend. Since the university’s first commencement on June 15, 1906, generations of graduates have shaped the Learn by Doing legacy we celebrate today.

Join us in honoring this milestone by taking a trip down memory lane at the link below, and share your favorite graduation stories and photos for a chance to be featured!

CEO Brian Riley at the Guardian Bikes factory. Photo by Michael Swenson.

Alumnus Brings Ultra-Safe Bikes to Kids and Adults

In 2004, Brian Riley’s (Business Administration, ’10) grandfather was nearly paralyzed after a head-over-handlebars crash caused by grabbing his bike’s front brake too hard. The accident left him hospitalized for a month and sparked an idea that would later revolutionize bicycle safety.

Riley is now the CEO of Guardian Bikes, a company that has redefined the children’s bike industry with its signature innovation: the SureStop braking system.

Mustang News students smiling for the camera

Mustang News Inducted Into Hall of Fame

In early March, Mustang News was inducted into the Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame, a national organization that honors excellence in student media.

In addition to the Hall of Fame recognition, the organization earned a total of 43 awards, including Best Faculty Advisor for Radio, awarded to journalism professor and KCPR advisor Patti Piburn.

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

Cal Poly alumna wearing a Cal Poly hat on a bridge over water.

Be the First to Hear About Cal Poly Travels Trips

Looking for your next adventure? Travel the world with fellow Mustangs through Cal Poly Travels.

From historic landmarks to breathtaking landscapes, our alumni trips offer unforgettable experiences designed just for the Cal Poly community.

Subscribe to the interest list to get the latest updates on destinations, trip details and how to join the journey!

Meet Shayna Lynch (Political Science, ’21)

“Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing approach gave me a real edge in the professional world. Volunteering allows me to give back to ensure future students have the same opportunity — and helps me stay connected to a powerful Mustang network wherever I go,” said Lynch, who is the Director at Large for the Cal Poly Alumni association.

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

More Alumni News

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Derek Ferriera (Business Administration, ’83) has joined forces with financial planners in central and northern California and Hawaii to form Prospera Succession Partners, a comprehensive wealth advisory.

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Barbara Barcellona Smith (Journalism, ’92) published her first children’s book, Let’s Eat Snails!, an Italian-American culinary adventure.

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Emily Bernard (Sorensen-Lindsey) (Psychology, ’05)completed her Clinical PsyD with honors in July 2024. She then went on to publish her doctoral project and is now a registered psychology associate.

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

Help Stop the CSU Budget Cut of $144 Million

In May, Governor Gavin Newsom released his May Revision proposal for the 2025–26 state budget. We are pleased to share that the Governor has reduced the propose cut to the CSU to $144 million (the Governor had proposed a $375 million cut in January). While the CSU is appreciative of Governor’s thoughtful approach to the state’s budget, a cut of $144 million threatens the quality of education provided to the CSU’s more than 460,000 students, while jeopardizing gains in enrollment, graduation rates and delivery of basic needs and student services.

If the cut is enacted, Cal Poly’s budget will be impacted. The governor’s budget proposal, which is now being considered by the legislature, threatens Cal Poly and the CSU’s financial stability and ability to serve students. Alumni can learn more and write your legislators on the CSU’s budget website.