Holiday Cheer on Sale at Poinsettia Sale Dec. 9
鶹’s annual poinsettia sale, with thousands of plants and dozens of varieties and colors, will end Saturday, Dec. 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Poly Plant Shop. The flowering holiday plants are grown by the more than 20 students who work in the Plant Sciences Department’s greenhouses. This year’s poinsettia project offers plants in shades of red, white, pink and a plethora of other colors. Sizes range from small plants in four-inch pots to large poinsettias reaching three feet high in 14-inch pots. Prices range from $10 to $100. The sale also features student-made wreaths, centerpieces, succulents, ornaments and gifts. A group of graduate students from the Orfalea College of Business will also demonstrate making 3D-printed custom plant pots, which will also be available for purchase.
Eco-Friendly Glue Breakthrough by Chemistry Team Receives Patent
An innovative, ecofriendly glue designed by a 鶹 chemistry research team in collaboration with an East Coast company has been approved for a U.S. government patent. The patent, approved Nov. 21, creates a pathway for proprietary commercial production of the glue innovation under the direction of the Massachusetts-based company Geisys Ventures with involvement the of chemistry faculty and students in research and development as part of a memorandum of understanding between the university and Geisys. The new adhesive has potential to reduce landfill waste and positively impact the environment on a broad scale. The product, to be formally commercialized under the name D-Glue (for “debondable glue”), was created bychemistry Professor Phil Costanzo and Geisys Ventures CEO Kris Stokes. The chemists are continuing research and development of the new adhesive with assistance from a team of Costanzo’s undergraduate students in the Bailey College of Science and Mathematics.
Engineering Professors Earn Recognition with Breakthrough Patent in Early Wildfire Detection
Two 鶹 professors recently secured a patent for their innovative approach in curbing wildfire spread, using a method that leverages equipment within power grids to detect a blaze a mile away from the transmission line in under a minute. Electrical engineering Associate Professor Majid Poshtan, pictured at left, and computer engineering Associate Professor Joseph Callenes-Sloan grounded their method on the observation that radiated heat from a fire changes transmission line temperatures, leading to expansion of the line and subsequent sag. By tracking line temperatures and sag, the duo determined that wildfires can be quickly identified around electric transmission networks. Their patent, “Using Power Infrastructure for Wildfire Detection,” is attracting significant interest from utility companies interested in technology that can aid efforts to limit wildfires due to power line-related issues.
Remember to Lock Doors Before Leaving for Break
reminds staff and faculty to lock offices, labs and other facilities before leaving for winter break. Theft and crimes of opportunity remain the most prevalent during breaks and times when the campus is not highly populated. Remember to lock doors, shut blinds and take any personal and valuable items home or store them in a secured, out-of-sight area. And if you’re traveling this season, remember to give your home a “someone-is-home” look by putting lights and a radio on a timer. Public Safety wishes everyone a safe holiday season.
Campus Dining Location Set to Open
The new 1901 Marketplace promises to be the perfect destination for students, faculty and staff seeking delicious food at an affordable price when it opens in early 2024. With a variety of concepts and flavors, there's something for everyone. Located in the UU Plaza, the 鶹 community can enjoy a beautiful, functional space to meet, eat, study and hang out in the heart of campus. The Marketplace will feature a traditional deli offering hot and cold selections, a Mediterranean concept with fresh and light flavors, as well as a California-Mexican venue specializing in wraps and bowls. There will also be favorites, including Chick-fil-A and Panda Express. In a hurry? Julian’s offers coffee, smoothies and quick grab-and-go options. Stay current on opening dates by subscribing to the .
Take Advantage of Professional Development Courses in December; Virtual Sessions are Live
is offering December professional development courses through the Cross Campus Collaboration series. These live, virtual workshops are offered by 鶹 and other CSU campuses. Each provides a unique opportunity for learning beyond campus borders in a convenient way for participants. Registration for the partial list of opportunities is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- , Wednesday, Dec. 6, 10-10:45 a.m.
- , Wednesday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-noon.
- , Friday, Dec. 8, 10-11:30 a.m.
- , Tuesday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-noon.
- , Tuesday, Dec. 13, 10-11:30 a.m.
'Gray Areas: How the Way We Work Perpetuates Racism and What We Can Do to Fix It,' Dec. 7
Sociologist Adia Harvey Wingfield will discuss her new book, “Gray Areas: How the Way We Work Perpetuates Racism and What We Can Do to Fix It,” on Thursday, Dec. 7, 2:10-4 p.m. in the ATL (No. 7), Room 286. Her work explores the ways that racial inequity persists in the workplace despite today’s multi-billion dollar diversity industry and provides actionable solutions to creating a truly equitable multiracial future. Wingfield, who teaches at Washington University in St. Louis, specializes in research that examines the ways intersections of race, gender and class impact social processes at work. The talk is presented by CLA Lottery Speaker Funds and the Women's, Gender and Queer Studies Department and cosponsored by the Social Sciences and Computer Science and Software Engineering departments, with additional funding provided by the American Sociological Association’s Sorokin Lecture Grant. Questions? Contact Kylie Parrotta at parrotta@calpoly.edu.
Winter Quarter Book and Learning Circles for Employees
Employee and Organization Development announces its winter quarter Book and Learning Circles with sessions from January through March.
Book Circle
Read and discuss over three to four sessions:
- by Annie Raser-Rowland and Adam Grubb.
- by Brené Brown.
- by Adam Grant.
Learning Circles
Watch a video or other media and discuss during a single session:
- Ashley Whillans.
- Brené Brown.
- Charles Duhigg.
To view book descriptions and register, visit the or the .
Statistical Consulting Available Through the Ides of March
The Statistics Department’s consulting services to facilitate research design and data analysis in a wide variety of disciplines are available by appointment only. Faculty members Heather Smith and Jeff Sklar are serving as the consultants. They are available to advise on data collection, experimental design and analysis of research projects from Monday, Jan. 8, through March 15, the last day of winter classes. In addition, the pair can lead seminars or tutorials on requested topics and offer advice on various computer packages available at 鶹. Interested faculty, staff and students are encouraged to access the for additional information.
Schedule a consultation
Research Division Accepting Proposals for 2024-25 RSCA Grant Program
The 2024-25 Research, Scholarly and Creative Activities (RSCA) Grant Program is open. The program, supported by funds from the CSU Chancellor’s Office and the 鶹 Provost's Office, helps faculty remain engaged in their disciplines beyond the classroom and contribute new knowledge through robust scholarship programs focused on strengthening the Golden State socially, culturally and economically. All faculty-unit employees are eligible to compete for funding, including lecturers, tenure-track and tenured faculty. Deadline for proposals is 11:59 p.m., Feb. 5, via the 鶹 InfoReady system. For more information and submission instructions, visit the . All are invited to attend the virtual RSCA information and Q&A session via on Thursday, Dec. 7, at 11:10 a.m. Attendees must be logged in with 鶹 credentials to join. Questions? Email research@calpoly.edu.
Students Create Sustainability Training Program for Campus Peers
An interdisciplinary team of 鶹 students has designed a sustainability training program aimed at raising awareness and changing behaviors among their campus peers. The 30-minute training, Sustainable Living Edu, which is offered to all incoming students, broadly addresses sections on consumption and fossil fuels, water, transportation and waste management. Continuing graduate students as well as university employees can also access the training. And the students hope it can expand to serve as a model for other California State University campuses, from San Diego to Eureka. “It is a student-led effort to prioritize sustainability at 鶹 and establish a culture of environmental awareness, stewardship and involvement among all students, staff and faculty,” said Kalea Conrad, a graduate student seeking a master’s in environmental sciences and management, who led the effort. The multidisciplinary team also included: Conor Kelly, a Redondo Beach resident, (Environmental Management and Protection, ’23); and four 2022 architecture graduates, Ashlynne Yap of San Jose; Alexa Jacobson of Benicia; Grace Lauer of Edina, Minnesota; and Mereck Palazzo of Chelan, Washington; and Annika Furr, who adapted the training prototype onto the formal Skillsoft platform as her senior project. Furr, of Burlingame, California, is graphic communications major who graduated in 2022.
Apple Products on Sale at Mustang Shop Through Dec. 8
The 鶹 Mustang Shop is hosting a staff and faculty appreciation sale offering discounts on Apple computers and iPads until Friday, Dec. 8. The sale — the most popular of the year — offers the best prices on all models but is limited to stock on hand. All items are available online and in the store. A university ID is required and sales exclude departmental purchases. Questions? Call the Mustang Shop at 6-5322 or email d.hanna@follett.com.
Join Financial Aid for FAFSA/CADAA Simplification Info Session Dec. 8
Staff who work directly with students, or who have an interest in the upcoming changes to the financial aid application process, are urged to and attend an upcoming FAFSA/CADAA (California Dream Act Application) simplification information session. The most significant changes to the applications in over 40 years are coming during the 2024-25 application cycle. The Financial Aid and Scholarship office is hosting its last virtual information session regarding the updates to the FAFSA and CADAA applications on Friday, Dec. 8 at 9:10 a.m. This session will provide insight into major application changes, updated terminology and anticipated impact to students and programs.
Pride Faculty Staff Association to Host Membership Drive Dec. 6
The Pride Faculty Staff Association is hosting a membership drive Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dexter Lawn. Stop by for a free SLODoCo donut and PFSA swag. The organization aims to foster an inclusive campus climate, advocate for equitable policies, support the Pride Center, promote education on LGBTQIAP issues and offer professional development and social opportunities to faculty, staff and graduate students. Anyone who feels the need to get involved and do more should stop by and sign up, meet the PFSA cabinet or stop by for a donut and say hello.
Noyce Applied Computing RFPs Due Dec. 8
The Noyce School of Applied Computing invites faculty — tenured, tenure-track and lecturers — to apply for funding to support promising research and educational projects that are aligned with the school’s mission and vision. Interdisciplinary applied computing projects that integrate knowledge and perspectives from two or more fields of study are highly encouraged. To support this, each proposal must include at least one faculty member affiliated with a Noyce School department, which includes computer engineering, computer science and software engineering, electrical engineering and statistics. The Noyce School has allocated $200,000 for this funding cycle, with future funding cycles expected. Individual proposals may request from $5,000 to $50,000 based on demonstrated need. Awards will be distributed to multiple deserving proposals, ensuring a wide array of innovative ideas receive support. Read the full request for proposals and apply by Friday, Dec. 8 on .Questions on how to use InfoReady? Contact Bridget Benson, associate dean for scholarship and assessment, at bbenson@calpoly.edu.
Apply to Faculty Learning Community by Dec. 15
The CSU Teaching Climate Change and Resilience Faculty Learning Community, developed by Mark Stemen, a Chico State professor who teaches geography and planning, has gained significant recognition since its inception last spring. Since then, the FLC has been featured in an article in the Chronicle of Higher Education and has received awards from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. The CTLT and 鶹's Facilities Energy, Utilities and Sustainability team are inviting faculty applications for the spring 2024 session, with $500 stipends available for eligible employees who complete the Faculty Learning Community requirements. Priority placement is given to new applicants who did not participate in the 2022 FLC. The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15. .
Winter Opportunities at the CTLT
The winter lineup of professional development offerings for campus educators (faculty and staff) from the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology is available on the CTLT Workshops webpage. Workshops include:
- .
There are also opportunities for an , on-demand resources for academic success, academic writing support, an Equitable Grading Community of Practice and on-demand resources for academic success.
Faculty/Staff Winter Parking Permits on Sale Jan. 3
Employee parking permits go on sale Wednesday, Jan. 3, several days before fall quarter permits expire on Sunday, Jan. 7. Finding a parking permit option that best fits your commute is easy using .Daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual parking permits are available online for purchase at employee unit-bargained rates. Permits sold in parking lots at pay stations, parking meters or by ParkMobile do not offer staff rates. Winter quarter permits are valid Monday, Jan. 8, through Sunday, March 31. Purchase permits online and update vehicle information on .
Corporation Wins Dozen MarCom Awards
鶹 Corporation’s Marketing and Communications Department earned a dozen international MarCom awards for programs, campaigns, branding and materials promoting outstanding collaborations and initiatives performed by the Digital Transformation Hub, Kennedy Library Transformation, Administration and Finance, Transportation and Parking Services, Talent Acquisition, Campus Dining and the Corporation. MarCom Awards honor excellence in marketing and communication while recognizing the creativity, hard work and generosity of industry professionals. MarCom is administered by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals. The Corporation team earned four platinum, four gold and four honorable mention awards. This year, there were over 6,500 entries from throughout the United States, Canada and 47 other countries. Awarded to about 17 percent of recipients for most outstanding entries, the four platinum awards recognized campuswide enterprises, including 鶹 Digital Transformation Hub’s launch of the new 鶹 5G Innovation Lab, Kennedy Library Transformation communications team’s public relations program, and 鶹 Corporation’s annual report and campus partnerships supporting student success social media campaign.
Get Around Campus Safely This Winter
Alongside the growing popularity of electric scooters, skateboards, one-wheel and micro-mobility devices are increased safety concerns and complaints from 鶹 community members about collisions, near collisions and close calls with pedestrians. Due to the campus hillside topography and congested pathways, skateboards, scooters and similar micro-mobility devices are not allowed on campus because of safety concerns. The road is shared by bicyclists, drivers and pedestrians, all trying to safely get to destinations. Remember that everyone can share the road and the responsibility. 鶹 Public Safety reminds faculty, students and staff how to get around campus safely:
- Bikes are a great way to avoid parking fees.
- Mustang Shuttle is an easy way to get around and people watch.
- Get steps in by walking.
- Look both ways before crossing.
- Follow posted traffic signs.
- Bike riders: wear a helmet and make yourself visible with lights and bright clothing.
Survey Input Needed on Kennedy Library Study Sites
Members of the Kennedy Library Transformation Team seek campus feedback and insights during its fall survey on the temporary study locations through Dec. 15. Campus community members can share thoughts on the nearly two dozen and library service points created for the start of the academic year to serve students, faculty and staff during the library renovation. The survey is designed to help better determine what is most important to the campus community regarding temporary study spaces and library service points. The survey takes only a few minutes to complete and will help the team learn from library users’ knowledge and experiences to provide improved services, hours and opportunities. .
First-Year Success Coaches Needed
The First-Year Success Program (FSP) is looking for faculty, staff and graduate students from across campus to serve as academic coaches for first-time, first-year students who are on academic probation. The coaches will support a small group of students by facilitating growth-centered conversations, engaging in goal setting and skill development, and exploring resources that students can use to move toward success in future quarters. FSP staff will provide a training via Zoom on Friday, Dec. 15, to discuss the details of the program and provide materials. In-person student workshops will be Friday, Jan. 12. FSP is seeking diverse members from throughout campus, so all levels of experience and background are welcome. . Questions? Email fsp@calpoly.edu
A&F Report: 2022-23 Was Quite a Year!
The 2022-23 Administration and Finance Annual Report was recently released and shares information and stories that celebrate and recognize the accomplishments of the past year. During the last academic year, the university welcomed one of its largest cohorts, with more than 5,100 first-year students. The year 2022-23 also marked 12 months of transition on campus and settling into a new reality of hybrid work and learning. The campus opened the William and Linda Frost Center for Research and Innovation; kicked off the two-year Kennedy Library Transformation; improved campus safety; increased sustainability efforts; continued to highlight diversity, equity and inclusion; and prioritized collaboration across the university. Administration and Finance staff and colleagues did this and more last year to continue to move the university forward.
Smile and Say Cheese: Holiday Boxes Feature Tasty Student-Made Products
’Tis the season for 鶹 holiday cheese boxes! The 鶹 Creamery has award-winning cheeses and traditional favorites, available in a variety of gift box arrangements and prices. The sale runs through mid-December, with shipping available throughout the U.S. and select dates available for on-campus pickup. Gift boxes from the creamery are a great way to share Mustang Pride during the holiday season while supporting student success. To order cheese selections in time for holiday delivery, visit the . Each purchase supports students 鶹's Learn by Doing tradition.
Institutional Research Website Offers User-Friendly Experience
Institutional Research’s newly revamped website puts the power of data at fingertips like never before. Data for publications and reports is strategically placed front-and-center. Users, navigating through a seamless interface, will find an intuitive layout with easy access to the wealth of information crucial for research and analysis. The revamped website has dynamic tools and resources, all aimed at empowering research endeavors. The newest are Registration Monitor dashboards, and more dashboards are coming. From visually engaging data visualizations to interactive elements, the site prioritizes accessibility and visibility of key information. “Embark on a journey where data takes center stage, and your research experience is elevated to new heights,” says Institutional Research.
Pianist Matthew Whitaker Comes to Spanos Theatre Dec. 6
鶹 Arts presents pianist Matthew Whitaker on Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m. in Spanos Theatre. Whitaker is a prodigious talent who began his musical journey at age 3. A Yamaha artist and the youngest musician endorsed by Hammond, he’s made a remarkable impact on the jazz scene. With training from the Juilliard School, Harlem School of the Arts and Manhattan School of Music, Whitaker has already performed in some of the world’s most prestigious venues. He previously studied classical piano and drums at the Filomen M. D’Agostino Greenberg Music School in New York, the only community music school for the blind and visually impaired in the U.S. As a 10-year-old, he was invited to perform at Stevie Wonder’s induction into the Apollo Theater’s Hall of Fame in 2001. Whitaker has been on national and international radio and television, including “Ellen,” “The Today Show” in their documentary series “Boys Changing the World,” and CBS’s “60 Minutes.“ This event has a 20% staff and faculty discount available.
Civic Ballet’s 'The Nutcracker' at PAC Dec. 8-10
The Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo presents its annual presentation of “The Nutcracker” Friday, Dec. 8, through Sunday, Dec. 10, in Harold Miossi Hall. For over 40 years, Civic Ballet has presented this holiday classic (including 25 years performing to sold-out audiences at the PAC). Lori Lee Silvaggio’s “The Nutcracker” is filled with all the pageantry, magic and wonder that have made this one of the most enduring holiday traditions around the globe. Featuring OperaSLO Grand Orchestra, sterling production values and San Luis Obispo County’s finest dancers, this is a ballet experience not to be missed. This event has a student discount available.
'Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular' Bound for PAC on Dec. 13
鶹 Arts presents “Nochebuena: A Christmas Spectacular” on Wednesday, Dec. 13, at 7:30 p.m. in the Harold Miossi Hall. Experience the vibrant spirit of Mexico’s Christmas season with an all-star cast featuring Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. Immerse yourself in Nochebuena traditions, where captivating music, dance and festive customs create an unforgettable cultural celebration. This spectacular show focuses on Nochebuena (Christmas Eve), when Mexican families attend midnight Mass before returning home to a late-night feast and lots of music! In Mexico, the holiday is a whole season of Christmas-related celebrations, representing a blend of indigenous culture, Spanish heritage and influences from other cultures. Mariachi Garibaldi enjoys a professional partnership with Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles, and together they have entertained thousands of people at sold-out venues. This event has a 20% staff and faculty discount available.
Ballet Theatre SLO Presents ‘Snow Queen’ at Spanos Dec. 15-17
Ballet Theatre SLO presents “The Snow Queen” ballet from Friday, Dec. 15, through Sunday, Dec. 17, in Spanos Theatre. Set in Scandinavia in the late 1700s, Hans Christen Andersen’s classic fairy tale that inspired Disney’s “Frozen” comes alive on stage. The cherished friendship of young Kay and little Gerda falls victim to an evil Hobgoblin’s cruel prank that turns people’s hearts cold and bitter. The icy Snow Queen preys on the trouble and leads Kay away to her frozen throne. Gerda’s love for her friend takes her on a fantastic rescue mission. She travels from her rooftop rose garden, through a rushing river, up snowy mountains, and into mystical forests and castles. She encounters magical creatures, dangerous hurdles and mysterious people. This event has a student discount available.
SLO Master Chorale Brings Holiday Festival, Sing-Along ‘Messiah’ at PAC on Dec. 16
SLO Master Chorale presents its annual Holiday Festival and Sing-Along “Messiah” performance on Saturday, Dec. 16, at 7:30 p.m. in Harold Miossi Hall. The Master Chorale will perform the great choruses from Handel's ever-popular masterpiece, “Messiah.” Experience the magic of the Forbes Pipe Organ, played by 鶹 University Organist Paul Woodring. Hear traditional carols and arrangements for chorus, organ and orchestra with a guest appearance from Los Angeles’s Westwood Brass quintet. It's a family tradition! Audience members are invited to listen to the “Messiah” choruses or join in the fun by singing along. This event has a student discount available.
Ukulele Virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro Brings Aloha Christmas to PAC on Dec. 19
鶹 Arts presents Jake Shimabukuro’s “Christmas in Hawai’i” on Tuesday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m. in Harold Miossi Hall. The ukulele virtuoso promises a heartwarming holiday extravaganza featuring bassist Jackson Waldhoff and singer-songwriter Justin Kawika Young. Shimabukuro transforms timeless holiday classics into Hawaiian delights. Experience an enchanting, joyful evening sure to be a highlight of the holiday season. This event has a 20% staff and faculty discount available.
Ring-in 2024 with Opera SLO’s ‘New Year’s Eve on Broadway’ at PAC
Opera San Luis Obispo presents “New Year's Eve on Broadway: From 42nd Street to the MET” Sunday, Dec. 31, at 7 p.m. in Harold Miossi Hall. This spectacular, citywide arts collaborative gala will feature the best of Broadway, opera and dance! The evening will feature eight nationally acclaimed vocalists as well as special guests Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo, Central Coast Gilbert and Sullivan and the Cuesta Concord Chorus, along with the Opera SLO Grand Orchestra and Chorus conducted by Brian Asher Alhadeff.
is a new platform that shines a spotlight on high-profile special events at 鶹 and throughout our community, focusing on the wide and diverse range of activities on and around campus. This site is designed to help our colleges, programs, departments and facilities promote exciting events that can be seen by a selected audience. It will update regularly and includes events happening in the next 30-45 days. It is not a calendar of all events, and it does not include student club events. Here are some links to help you navigate:
Submitting an Event to Events.calpoly.edu
To submit your event for consideration, please send the event title, date, time, duration, ticket information, intended audience(s) and image (1600 bpi wide) to event-submission@calpoly.edu.
University Events Calendar
To find a listing of all events — such as performances, lectures, workshops and more — visit our .
Scheduling/Booking Venues
can help you schedule or book a venue for an upcoming on-campus event.
Note that a minimum three-day lead time is required to process a request for use of space through the Office of the Registrar.
鶹 鶹 Now for Student Affairs events, learning opportunities and more
Find the latest student-focused campus events from your favorite Student Affairs programs and services by visiting . Download the new 鶹 Now app on your or device to easily find events and activities, follow clubs and organizations, and network and grow connections across campus.