What will encampment ban mean for Cal Poly?
Campus concerned for free speech, enforcement and expression
LEADERSHIP
Amelia Wu Editor in Chief
MUSTANG NEWS
NEWS
Caroline Ohlandt Editor
Katy Clark Assistant Editor
Nick Forselles
Gabriella Lipsky
Abby Gorman
Leila Touati
Kaylin O’Connell
Bella Cox
Livia Angelini
Ava Tourgeman
Alex Kohm
Aditi Sriram
Riya Parekh
OPINION
Landon Block Editor
Erin Yarwood
Kaylie Wang
Ash Pickett
Brie Thompson
John Washington
Larena Tannert
Ani Nazarian
SPORTS
Sergio Romero Editor
Anthony Molleson Video
Nick Bandanza
Mark Robinson
Matthew Muren
Jonathan Sze
Joslen Jimenez
Ava Keshtkar
Andrew Aguiniga
Oliver Marburg
Coulter Langmaid
Lano Somotun
Andrea Aruino
Amanda Avila
Nadeen Maniord
Joe Forrestdavis
Ryan Giacomini
Ty Soria
Charlie Wiltsee
Dylan Allen
Jai Gulati
Jack Bynum
Warren Notrica
Rocco Brichler
DESIGN
Brandon Schwartz Creative Director
Aviv Kesar
Elizabeth Ridley
Kennedy Ray
Julia Hazemoto
Jolina Chen
Audrey Walch
ARTS & STUDENT LIFE
Syd Spencer Editor
Kaylie Wang
Matthew Ho Managing Editor
Brandon Schwartz
Creative Director
Maya Ziv
Rebecca Von Tersch
Sofia Livia
Katherine Lu
Vinithra Seshan
Kimber Draughon
Megan Tang
Makena Locsin
VIDEO
Cassandra Garcia Video Manager
RJ Pollock
Izzy Romero
Jessica Carp
Lauren Quijano
Emma Montalbano
PHOTO
Maura Shernisky Editor
Owen Roberts
Brandon Bomberger
Dijia Wang
Christina Thai
Eleanor Vickery
Soha Roy
Chloe Briote-Johnson
Andrea Aruino
Paige Teraji
SOCIAL MEDIA
Archana Pisupati Social Media
Manager
Avery Smigel
Ava Zamoff
Zoë Laureta
Gabrielle Ottaviano
Millie Marshall
Marlene Arroyo
Olivia Roman
Skylar Novak
Elizabeth Morton
DATA & INVESTIGATIONS
Elizabeth Wilson
Angel Corzo
Jeremy Garza
Alie Hall
Alex Tran
BILINGUAL
Kathyrn Hutchinson Editor
KCPR
LEADERSHIP
Kat Orozco Content Director
Emmy Burrus KCPR News Director
Mairi O’Toole Art Director
Amelia Nored Programming/ Music Director
Sophia Ermisch Marketing Director
Ben Shane Podcast Manager
KCPR NEWS
Emmy Burrus Director
Emma Montalbano Assistant Director
Cassandra Garcia MNTV News Director
Leila Touati
Digital Director
Riley Sullivan
Sergio Romero
Izzy Romero
Fiona Hastings
Cayden Tan
Nadeen Maniord
Talie Krantz
Gabriella Lipsky
Ty Soria
Giselle Espinoza
Evelyn Santa Rosa
Delaney Ridder
Lauren Quijano
KCPR CONTENT
Kat Orozco Content Director
Angie Stevens Editorial Assistant
Ruby Citrin
Ella Giuliani
Asmahan Karam
Marley Logan
Olivia Nieporte
Gabrielle Ottaviano
Constantine Golematis
Bailee Isackson
MMG BUSINES
ADVERTISING & PR
Sean Harmon Advertising Manager
Emma James
Alexander Poroy
Sydnie Bierma Special Sections Editor
Morgan Fitzgerald Marketing and
Public Relations Director
Amanda Wahl Advertising Design
Manager
Leah Coffey Marketing Assistant
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS
Ashley Ho
Christine Kim
Teia Kornienko
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Ruby Beye
Tara Davari
Kayla Harmon
Angie Ho
Kendall Jones
Julia Moore
Janalee Taguiam
Logan Teixeira
SPECIAL SECTIONS WRITERS
Sydnie Bierma Editor
Samantha Orradre
Kaitlyn Knopf
Kate Roarke
Madison White
Ashley Bates
Lillian Dolph
ADVISERS
Jon
Pat
Kim
Patti
Garza
STORY BY Krithi Sanker
STORY
Bailee Isackson
Julia Hazemoto
STORY
Cole Pressler
BY Jolina Chen
A Letter to Cal Poly...
BY AMELIA WU & MATTHEW HO
Hey reader,
Whether this is the first time you’re reading Mustang News or if you’ve followed our content regularly, thank you for picking up our first print issue of the year. We are excited for you to see the stories we have in store.
Our team has worked hard to bring you the news that matters and is eager to navigate the year ahead together.
Over the past year, our campus has experienced significant change. With the protests that ignited national conversations, we’ve witnessed firsthand the impact that our voices have as students—and how journalism can amplify that power. It is in these moments of action and reflection that we see the true spirit of our community: passionate, resilient and unafraid.
At Mustang News, we are not just reporters; we are fellow students who care deeply. We have seen the transformative nature of student-led initiatives up close and know that change often starts with a voice.
As observers of this campus, we strive to provide those voices a home—a platform where they can be heard, questioned and celebrated. Whether it’s through a news article, opinion piece or a photo essay, we aim to capture the full spectrum of student experiences.
And as we enter a new election cycle, the need for thoughtful conversation is more critical than ever. We’re dedicated to being the place where your voices are heard loud and clear, your perspectives are shared and your friends are informed.
Welcome back Mustangs.
I hope you enjoy reading these stories as much as we did finding and reporting them.
Sincerely,
Amelia Wu
MMG EDITOR IN CHIEF
Matthew Ho
MMG MANAGING EDITOR
The New Mustang Guide to College Life
BY ARCHANA PISUPATI
Early September welcomes an autumn chill with giddy excitement: it is back-to-school season. At the start of your college career, you might feel elated, anxious or even overwhelmed as you navigate various new experiences. From academic resources to extracurricular activities, here are some previous students who know exactly what you need to feel supported.
ACADEMIC SUCCESS & SUPPORT
As a freshman, you have access to special resources, including the Mustang Success Center. As a transfer, college-based academic advising is available along with multiple tips to succeed in a new college environment. Find specific resources below.
Graduate student Emily Marfia recalls her experience using campus resources and encourages freshmen to do the same.
“Student Life & Wellbeing is very important to not only me but is a shared responsibility of all Cal Poly community members,” she said.
“We provide resources, counseling, and academic advising to students that are first-generation, low-income, and/or have a disability,” Marfia said.
“Opportunity is wildly abundant at Cal Poly SLO, and you will never know what could be if you never get out there and ask,” she added.
Cal Poly is home to over 40 restaurants and more than 1,110 menu offerings across campus, according to Campus Dining. On the Cal Poly Dining website, you will find a guide to navigating different allergens through dining.
FRESHMAN RESOURCES TRANSFER RESOURCES
Find the advising office at the Mustang Success Center!
Find the advising office at College Advising
COMMON ALLERGENS AND OUR RECOMMENDATIONS!
GLUTEN-FREE:
Various on-campus restaurants offer gluten-free buns, breads, cereals and more. We recommend heading to Picos!
VEGAN/VEGETARIAN:
Check out specially labeled meals available at every restaurant that are often customizable. We recommend heading to Balance Café!
I have first-hand experience utilizing the resources on campus, as well as making referrals as well. Those who work in student affairs want you to know that we want to help you. All you have to do is ask!”.
EMILY MARFIA
(she/they) Second-year graduate student in the Cal Poly SLO Higher Education, Counseling, and Student Affairs program
KOSHER: Kosher meals are available at Market Grand Ave, Campus Market and Village Market. We recommend heading to What’s Cookin’ Kosher!
The Mustang Success Center is the first-year advising office designed to assist students with everything ranging from personal needs to class schedules. Scan the QR code for more!
Major-based, career services, student academic services for SAS, EOP and TRIO, retention and other specific advisory centers are available. Scan the QR code for more!
For Career Counseling visit the Freshman Focus Team
For Transfer Specific Resources visit Transfer Academic Coaching
Appointments are available by scheduling. Scan the QR code for more!
Appointments are available for one-on-one peer coaching sessions. Scan the QR code for more!
Cal Poly has over 400 recognized student organizations to connect students with campus life. You can explore Cal Poly Now to find collegebased clubs, cultural clubs, religious clubs and even affinity groups for recreation.
Cal Poly alum Avanti Gummaraju, and former president of United Movement said, “Join non-academic clubs for a sense of community.”
While clubs are important to creating community on campus, they are also beneficial to career connections, Marfia said.
Cal Poly is also home to 38 social Greek organizations with over 4,000
students. They are each affiliated with one of the three governing councils: Panhellenic Association, United Sorority & Fraternity Council, and the Interfraternity Council (IFC).
“[Greek life is] such a good way to meet people and get involved with things that can be so beneficial in your career,” business administration senior Akanksha Banerjee said.
“Being the director of finance for Alpha Omicron Pi helped me get an internship.”
She added, “networking is so important and greek life people will always want to help others, even in different sororities and fraternities.”
JOIN AN AFFINITY GROUP ON CAMPUS!
These groups are designated to nurture students of underrepresented identities!
THE BLACK ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE CENTER
CENTER FOR MILITARY CONNECTED STUDENTS
DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER
PRIDE CENTER SAFER
DREAM CENTER
GENDER EQUITY CENTER
INTERNATIONAL CENTER
THE LATINX CENTER
MEN AND MASCULINITIES
MULTICULTURAL CENTER
NATIVE & INDIGENOUS CULTURAL CENTER
CAMPUS LIFE AND COMMUNITY
We asked Mustang News managers what their comfort activity in SLO is. Here’s what they had to say:
“Whenever I crave a comforting, homemade meal, Giuseppe’s Cucina Rustica in downtown SLO is my go-to. Their bread is to die for, and their selection of pizzas, pastas and delicious desserts ensures there’s something for everyone. Giuseppe’s is an absolute must-try in SLO!”
- Caroline Ohlandt, MN News Editor
“When I need a place to hang out with friends or some calm study time in the mornings, Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe offers breakfasts and sweet treats that accompany their quaint atmosphere.”
- Leila Touati, MMG Digital Manager
“Nothing beats grabbing some friends and heading up Prefumo Canyon Road to catch the sunset. It’s the best when you can just listen to your favorite songs while driving up the winding road. Not to mention, the views from the top are always amazing, especially when the classic SLO fog rolls in over the hills. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to enjoy a beautiful sunset in SLO!”
- Morgan Fitzgerald, MMG Marketing and PR Manager
“Nearly once a month, I find myself heading over to Yanagi Sushi & Grill for a delicious dinner with friends. Anytime I am craving soup, sushi, or fried rice, I always go there. It has the best fried rice and sushi in all of SLO!”
- Maura Shernisky, MN Photo Editor
“I always love to spend time at Nautical Bean, whether it’s spent grabbing coffee with friends or settling in for a long day of work. They have the best variety on their menu, and the atmosphere of the coffee shop is so relaxing with all of the comfortable seating and great decorations. Whenever I need to cram for finals or de-stress after them, Nautical Bean is the place to go!”
- Brandon Schwartz, Mustang News Creative Director
“Any time of year, Linnaea’s Café is my favorite place to hangout. With its relaxing ambience and live music, the coffee shop is home to some of my favorite treats in San Luis Obispo and is the best pick-me-up at the end of a long day. I recommend getting an iced matcha with rose and oat milk–they use ceremonial grade and it’s truly the best in the city. Definitely check out their poetry nights and live music events as well!”
- Archana Pisupati, MN Social Media Manager
“I am a huge fan of seeing movies at The Movie Experience. It’s centrally located, which makes it easy to bring a whole crew to watch the latest blockbuster in addition to any other downtown excursion. Even better, it has surprisingly affordable prices and plenty of showtimes. Just make sure you’re the one who orders the tickets so you can cash in on the rewards program (which includes free tickets!)”
- Landon Block, MN Opinion Editor
“My favorite way to de-stress after a long week of studying is by hiking to Serenity Swing. The hike is conveniently located on Cal Poly’s campus headed towards Poly Canyon. It’s about a 2 mile hike to the swing where there’s a view of the rolling hills of San Luis Obispo and Morro Rock. Best time to hike Serenity Swings is in the fall and spring where you can see the views the best! And not to mention the trail during the spring is filled with baby calves with their mama cows.”
- Cassandra Garcia, Mustang News T.V. Video Director
“After a long beach day or stressful school week, nothing hits harder than Lincoln Deli. With its atmosphere radiating sunshine and friendly workers, I always leave with a smile and a full stomach. While all the sandwiches are delicious, the Anholm is my personal favorite and a must try in SLO!”
- Sydnie Bierma, MN Special Sections Editor
Whether you are overjoyed or anxious, Mustang News is here to provide the resources to make your transition as smooth as possible. As the air turns crisp and you zip up your backpacks for the new year, come back to this guide for everything from academic resources to a local coffee shop for finals week!
‘Weekends are not a thing’
Meet the students who live yearround at Cal Poly’s agriculture units
BY COLE PRESSLER
Luke Somma didn’t think he’d spend his junior year at college living in a trailer.
But unlike most trailers, this one has an official name: Cal Poly Building 18-L—the Dairy Science Residence Trailer.
And Somma, the dairy unit’s student maintenance manager, can’t beat the 30-second commute to work.
“I just roll out of bed and I’m there,” Somma said.
The Dairy Trailer is part of the school’s Agriculture Housing Program, which will house 50 students across campus as of Fall 2024. In exchange for 20 hours of unpaid work each month, students live at their respective agriculture units—poultry, dairy, swine, plant sciences and more—and they only pay about $500 a month in rent.
In the small-town San Luis Obispo housing market, students consistently scramble to find safe places to live among decades-old apartments
crumbling with termites and mold.
One house’s lease can attract more than 50 groups of applicants, and some students choose to live in their vans to avoid the headache of renting.
While California pours millions of dollars into the county’s affordable housing projects, Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture (CAFES) has its own solution: let students live where they work, saving them a commute—and thousands of dollars on housing.
It’s not without responsibility. Lea Thomas, an animal science senior who lives in a house near the equine unit, stressed that the work comes before the living convenience.
“You’re applying for the job first,” Thomas said. “If the housing is open, that’s the second part.”
Cal Poly has housed students at agriculture units since at least 1936. Now, they’re expanding—two more houses are being built on Via Carta road to hold another dozen students.
The housing units are sprinkled through the fields at nearly a dozen agriculture units. Some are wide
ranch-style houses with crackling paint, while others are white trailers with wooden porches.
Most are decades old, built between the 1970s and ‘90s, but some have stood for 90 years.
Miles from the crowds at the Rec Center and Vista Grande, it’s still Cal Poly out here—just not the Cal Poly most students know.
Luke Somma’s 35-year-old trailer sits at the back edge of the dairy unit. A chicken named Tiffany pecks around in the front yard.
Even though you’re on campus, it doesn’t really feel like you’re a part of campus.
LUKE SOMMA Agriculture Systems Management
Junior
Inside the cozy space, there’s a sprawling black couch and a television with its back stuffed up to the edge of the kitchen counter. A banjo hangs on the wall.
“Even though you’re on campus, it doesn’t really feel like you’re a part of campus,” Somma said.
Last year, he lived in the Avila House, a ranch above the Yosemite Towers with a mix of students from various units.
“I like it a lot better out here,” he said. “I keep dirt bikes in the backyard. I have a barbecue out back. It feels a lot more like a house.”
One day, when a gate was left open, Somma came home to a herd of cattle milling around on his front lawn.
Somma and his roommate, who he’s known since high school, pass their free time at the trailer playing cornhole and the banjo—and practicing a sport Somma invented called
“RipStik roping,” in which they try to rope a homemade metal cow while balancing on a rotating skateboard. But living at the unit is a commitment. Cows have to be fed and milked daily, and many of Somma’s work hours aren’t scheduled.
“Weekends are not a thing,” Somma said. “You don’t know when a calf’s gonna pop out, you don’t know when a water trough is gonna break, when a tractor’s not gonna start. There’s always something that’s gonna pop up and keep you on your toes.”
Most of the units are tucked
among the fields—away from stray eyes except for a few students, teachers and passing runners—the Environmental Horticulture Unit, up by the school’s Leaning Pine Arboretum, is buzzing.
Sabrina Correa, a plant science junior, lives in a yellow house in front of the unit. Strangers sometimes confuse it for the plant shop next door.
Decades ago, the house was located where the Red Brick resident halls currently sit; the entire building was eventually transported to the current
COLE PRESSLER | MUSTANG NEWS
Junior Sabrina Correa waters plants in a greenhouse at the Environmental Horticulture Unit, where she also lives.
COLE PRESSLER | MUSTANG NEWS
Animal science senior Lea Thomas pets her dog, Doc, outside of Herdsman Hall on Via Carta. Thomas works at the Equine Unit up the hill and has lived at Herdsman Hall for two years.
COLE PRESSLER | MUSTANG NEWS
Junior Luke Somma sits outside the Dairy Science Residence Trailer at the Dairy Unit. Somma is the dairy maintenance manager, meaning he lives at the unit and works.
plant science unit on Via Carta Road.
“The house is old; it has its quirks,” Correa said. The windows don’t open sometimes. The doors don’t open sometimes. The mice. There’s no insulation. But it’s really fun. We’ve made it into a home.”
Correa is a student assistant at the greenhouses behind the house and is “best friends” with her roommates and coworkers. She plans to live there again next year.
“There’s a very good sense of community,” she said. The unit is social and usually buzzing with students and teachers from her major.
Despite the fun Correa has living there, she says the job is her first responsibility.
At least one student in every agriculture unit has to stay during school breaks. The stakes are high—animals have to be fed, and plants have to be tended to. Students worked throughout the entire COVID-19 pandemic.
And on top of the 20-per-month requirement for Ag Housing, most students work additional (paid) hours to keep the units running.
“The rent is fairly cheap but it comes with a lot of responsibility,” Correa said. “Someone has to be in this house every day of the year, no matter what.”
According to a horticulture unit employee who lived at the house in the 1970s, the program has a history of prestige. Department chairs would select the best (or their favorite) students for the housing spots.
Blast From The Past
Gordon Vosti, a Cal Poly agricultural sciences major from 1966-1970, remembers paying $37 a month for a spot in a 14-person, two-story Crops Unit house.
There were just a handful of agriculture houses back then, including the still-standing Herdsman Hall and the Horticulture Unit’s house.
“It was totally quiet out there,” Vosti said. “Except for the train. And the swine unit.”
They made their peace with both: after about a month, they got used to the sound of the trains—and a house resident from Hawaii would pit-roast pigs in the yard.
The then decades-old house was surrounded by orange, lemon and avocado trees that the student workers sustained themselves on.
“As far as the experience goes, I would not trade it for anything,” Vosti said.
It was competitive to get a spot in the house, but residents weren’t required to work, according to Vosti. Regardless, he worked other jobs, like breaking down greenhouses and moving them across campus and lighting heaters in the middle of cold winter nights so the fruit trees didn’t freeze.
Vosti said his roommates would
hold baseball tournaments, sell deep-fried artichokes at the Poly Royal Rodeo, and dive in Cayucos to catch rockfish.
And one of them kept a red-tailed hawk as a pet.
“His name was Hawkman,” Vosti said. “Never knew his real name—all we could do was call him Hawkman.”
The Crops House was demolished in 2009.
“It’s a sad thing to not see the house here anymore,” Vosti said. “But time goes on.”
Down the hill from the horticulture unit lies Herdsman Hall, the equine unit house.
Four students live there, including animal science senior Lea Thomas and her emotional support dog, Doc. They have a white picket fence and a sizable backyard where they sunbathe and play volleyball. There’s a rope swing, horseshoes and wellkept grass—with plenty of room for Doc to run around.
Like many of the old ag houses, there’s also a locker room and stalls in the bathroom.
These are employees… They are essential workers.
MICHELLE HAKA CAFES Facilities Director
“It’s a fun little quirky ranch house,”
Thomas said. “Our bathroom is something you’d see if you walked into the main science building.”
Herdsman Hall has stood since the 1930s and has housed hundreds of students. Sometimes, Thomas has answered the door to see alumni and former residents who want to relive the old days.
This was Thomas’ second year in the house. She’s a three-minute walk to work—she said she basically lives at the equine unit—and five minutes from most of her classes.
Thomas immersed herself in her Equine Unit job, which she said “fell right into” her animal science course load.
“[I’m] not even just living in my house, [I’m] actually living at the equine unit itself,” she said.
One of her responsibilities as a Herdsman resident is to be on call after dark in case of horse emergencies.
“That part is very tiring,” she said. “You’re on edge, you’re prepped.” Living so close to the unit paid off
during her foaling class last year, in which students have to spend a weekly night shift on-call from 2-6 a.m. in case any horses are born.
“We’re working students,” Thomas said. “We’re going to hear alarms at 1:45 in the morning. It’s no big deal—just a mutual understanding between all of us.”
Looking To The Future
Two green and yellow ranch houses sit across a horse pasture from Poly Canyon Village. With a total budget of $2 million, they’re the first new agriculture houses built by CAFES in decades.
The houses each have six bedrooms,
two bathrooms and lots of natural light. When they’re finished this fall, they will hold 12 total students from a mix of agriculture units.
“These are not dorms for students— these are employees,” CAFES’ facilities director Michelle Haka said.
“They are essential workers.”
CAFES plans to build a veterinary clinic next door—replacing the old clinic on Mt. Bishop Road—by Fall 2026. It’ll free up bedroom space out in the fields for a Cal Poly Rodeo student to live near the team’s facility.
Haka said the houses are built to lodge students for more than 50 years.
“But they’re probably going to last 100-plus years,” Haka said. “These
houses are modeled for the future with materials that will last.”
Officials from CAFES stressed that the program is essential for students’ learning experiences and for the agriculture units who rely on live-in students keep functioning.
“It’s been a part of our college for a long time and it’s played an important part for the students who have come through,” Ann Marie Cornejo, the CAFES communications director, said.
And aside from the work and learning experience, the cheap rent doesn’t hurt, students said.
“Best deal in SLO,” Somma grinned.
Herdsmans Hall (the Equine Unit’s Housing).
The Poultry Unit House.
The Dairy Science residence trailer.
The environmental horticulture unit house.
The two houses at the sheep and goat unit (Cheda Ranch) at Cal Poly, which house students who work at the sheep and goat unit, dairy unit, reptile unit and more.
COLE PRESSLER | MUSTANG NEWS
‘I choose what I do with the power’: How the memory of Keith Marco lives on
BY TY SORIA
“With size comes responsibility. Being bigger than everyone else empowers me, but I choose what I do with the power. I work hard to become a better leader by listening first so I can help others understand in a way that’s right for them.” -Keith Marco’s personal statement
I work hard to become a better leader by listening first so I can help others understand in a way that’s right for them.
KEITH MARCO Junior and Food Science
Standing at 6 foot 3 and 290 lbs, Keith Marco grew up larger than many of his peers, proving to be an intimidating force on the football field. But beneath his imposing exterior, his goofy personality and empathy towards others made him a “teddy bear” to his friends and the Cal Poly community.
“One time, we were all just hanging out with our moms, and he just ran outside and jumped on one of the tables and it completely snapped,” Keith’s high school friend and fraternity brother, Rob Murray said. “It was so random, but it was really funny to everyone.”
Marco played left guard for Cal Poly and was a junior pursuing a food science degree. On June 6, he passed
away from a pulmonary embolism at 21 years old.
“His capacity for love and people was limitless and his uplifting huge bear hugs were priceless,” his mother, Audrey Marco, said. “No matter where we were or what we were doing, it was always fun and laughter-filled with Keith.”
Pulmonary embolisms happen when blood clots occur in the arteries of the lungs. He was rushed to UCLA Medical Center on May 23. He was put into a medically induced coma on life support and passed away as an organ donor on June 6, 2024.
Keith wanted to follow in the footsteps of his sister, Emma Marco, who graduated in food science in 2021 with an accelerated MBA in 2022, according to Audrey. Keith was set
for an internship with Symrise this summer, a flavor and fragrance company that produces products for companies such as Coca-Cola.
“I was so proud of him, especially how he navigated and still managed to get into his dream school, even though he didn’t take the typical path to get there,” Emma said.
Off the field, Keith loved to cook. He often bonded with his friends, such as business administration senior Aidan Najah, by sharing his culinary skills.
AUDREY MARCO | MUSTANG NEWS Keith in uniform.
“One time he came after class, and I was trying to cook a steak for the first time, and he asked me, ‘Have you really cooked a steak before?’ And he leaves and comes back with rosemary that he picked, grabs some butter, and just teaches me how to cook steak.”
Inspired by his passion for cooking, Lambda Chi Alpha and other friends held a barbecue in his honor June 5. About 300 to 400 people attended, creating a memorial garden at the fraternity house. His friend, chemistry senior Olivia Everett, helped make scrapbooks for friends to sign.
“Keith was that person that made a lot of people feel like they had a family in college,” Everett said. “I think that’s why he was able to bring so many people together.”
Like many others, Najah gravitated towards Keith because he was a great listener and made the effort to check in with people.
“I learned from Keith on how to be genuine, how to be honest with not only others, but yourself, and how to always see the good in people,” Najah said. “Keith truly changed my life and how I look at things. And now that he’s gone, I will always carry those values with me. He was the purest form of human.”
Dr. Amanda Lathrop, Dean of Graduate Education, was a professor in the food science department during Keith’s freshman year. To her, Keith stood out due to his patience and positive leadership with a lab group that initially struggled in class.
Keith developed a strong relationship with Lathrop and often babysat her kids after school.
“One thing that stuck out with me is that he was the same person with his
close friends, with his acquaintances and faculty members that he interacted with,” Lathrop said.
Despite his football career riddled with leg injuries in high school and college, Keith always stayed upbeat, according to Lathrop. At Redondo Union High School (RUHS), he had reconstructive knee surgery and missed his senior season.
One thing that stuck out with me is that he was the same person with his close friends, with his acquaintances and faculty members that he interacted with.
DR AMANDA LATHROP
Dean of Graduate Education
Head coach Keith Ellison, who was defensive coordinator during Marco’s tenure at RUHS, said he could never stay mad at him due to his charm and positivity.
“The thing I’ll remember most about him is how good-natured he is and how much he really enjoyed life,” Ellison said. “He was a goofball. He was never upset or down. I can’t say enough how good of a young man he was.”
During his freshman year at Cal
Poly, Keith’s father passed away from cancer. He found support in his friend Makenzie Massey, a child development senior. She opened up to him about her own losses, which uplifted each other through the grieving process.
“It was funny because Keith literally did not care where we were,” Massey said. “We could be at a party, and we’d find a quiet space to spill what we needed to spill, and then go on and have a good time.”
Keith’s perseverance through grief while balancing football and school earned him the “Courage” award in Lambda Chi Alpha during his freshman year. In his sophomore and junior years, Marco earned the “Kindness” award. There are five character awards given to one of the fraternity’s 110 members based on nominations and votes.
“I don’t think there’s anybody that could make you feel more loved after leaving a conversation,” Murray said. “He actually cared about what you were saying.”
Tommy Symer, Cal Poly’s Lambda Chi Alpha president, said Keith was a trusted confidant for many members. While at Cal Poly, Keith is the only member he knows to win multiple character awards.
“He never held an official leadership position, but he was really the glue of Lambda Chi Alpha and one of the people that everyone relied on for a positive outlook in their day-today life,” Symer said.
For more information about Keith, the Marco family has set up a memorial website for those with stories and photos of Keith to share.
ROB MURRAY | MUSTANG NEWS
ROB MURRAY | MUSTANG NEWS
Keith’s garden and scrapbook at the barbecue on June 5
KCPR’s Fall Guide to Touring Alternative Bands Coming to SLO
BY BAILEE ISACKSON
Outside the commotion of freshmen move-in and syllabus week, music can be heard saturating the streets of San Luis Obispo. Like so many other California college towns, San Luis Obispo is a must for musicians on the West Coast legs of their tours. From indie folk to post-hardcore rock, the county will offer a range of sounds throughout the fall quarter.
INNER WAVE AT SLO BREW ROCK
Inner Wave will take the SLO Brew Rock stage on Sept.19 as part of a celebratory tour commemorating the 10th anniversary of their freshman album “Sun Transmission.”
The Los Angeles five-piece has cultivated an effervescent indie-pop sound that borrows funk and psychedelic elements. The concoction yields a fun, bouncy energy, encouraging every listener to follow their instincts and dance. Tickets for this 18+ show are on sale now through the SLO Brew website for $39.05 apiece.
Recommended if you listen to No Vacation, Crumb, Mild High Club, Babe Rainbow.
KCPR
GLITTERER AT HELLO VILLAGE
On Sept. 20, Glitterer, the D.C. melodic-infused post-hardcore rock band, will perform at Hello Village. Glitterer will be supported by Oakland nugaze legends Toner, the dreamy Los Angeles grungegaze outfit Draag and local nugaze group, Roving. If Hello Village doesn’t ring any bells, the venue is an Arroyo Grande children’s clothing store that recently began hosting hardcore shows. Glitterer released its fourth album earlier this year, pushing towards a more energetic but not necessarily upbeat sound, with emo-reminiscent hardcore vocals and an unexpected inclusion of a synthesizer. This is an all-ages show, and tickets are now for sale on the Hello Village website for $20. A trip to the mosh pit is included and guaranteed with each purchase.
Recommended if you listen to Title Fight, Hotline TNT, Turnstile.
WILT AT THE AVIARY
The self-proclaimed bedroom rock group Wilt, hailing from Los Angeles, will be making a stop at Downtown San Luis Obispo’s Aviary during their fall west coast tour on Sept. 21. Local indie trailblazer Couch Dog and Santa Barbara indie rock band The Framers will support the five-piece. The three bands will rejoin on stage after performing on the same bill at the Shabang Live Music and Arts Festival earlier this year.
Wilt debuted their first EP this April full of catchy, headbang-able power pop ballads. Tickets for this all-ages show are now available for $28.52 each.
Recommended if you listen to Slow Pulp, Paramore, Olivia Rodrigo, Hole.
JUNGLE AT THE VINA ROBLES AMPHITHEATER
The funky dance music project Jungle is performing at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Sept. 25 as a part of their 2024 World Tour.
Jungle is characterized by its groovy, upbeat tracks and a rotating roster of musicians. Their current touring group includes founders Josh Lloyd-Watson and Tom McFarland, as well as Lydia Kitto, George Day, Geo Jordan, and Will Fry.
The UK outfit has been climbing the charts for their album “VOLCANO” and reached the top ten US Billboard’s Top Dance / Electronic Songs with their hit single “Back On 74.”
Tickets are available starting at $87.85 and KCPR is hosting a giveaway on their Instagram.
Recommended if you listen to Thundercat, BADBADNOTGOOD, Hiatus Kaiyote, Khruangbin.
FAYE WEBSTER AT THE ALEX MADONNA EXPO CENTER
The reigning queen of genre-bending, Faye Webster, will grace the Alex Madonna Expo Center stage on Sept. 26 as part of her “Undressed at the Symphony” album release tour.
Often melding soft indie with an unmistakable
twang and classic R&B production, Webster has taken a mellower approach with her fifth album and dipped a toe into the world of electronic autotuned vocals on some tracks. Special guest and collaborator Mei Ehara will join her, the Tokyo-based singer-songwriter who co-wrote and sang on Webster’s sophomore album “I Know I’m Funny haha.” Tickets are sold out on the Maddona Inn website, but offers can be found online resellers.
Recommended if you listen to Men I Trust, beabadoobee, Clairo.
ALLAH-LAS AT SLO BREW ROCK
Continuing with a trend of genre-bending, the Los Angeles-based four-piece Allah-Las are set to perform at SLO Brew Rock on Sept. 28, with support from Maston’s cozyindie funk sensibilities.
Releasing their first album in 2012, Allah-Las has come a long way from their surfy, folk-rock roots. Their most recent album “Zuma 85” sees the band into a new eclectic, prog-curious area of songwriting.
Tickets for this 18+ show are now available for $39.05 on the SLO Brew Rock website.
Recommended if you listen to Ty Segall, Tijuana Panthers, The Murlocs, The Brian Jonestown Massacre.
FATHER JOHN MISTY AT THE FREMONT THEATER
Father John Misty, the current reverend of folk rock, will appear on the Fremont Theater’s stage on Sept. 29 to perform a full band headlining show, one of only four this year.
Father John Misty previously took a two-year hiatus from releasing new music, but recently released a “Greatish Hits” compilation album paired with a new and unconventional single titled “I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All.” It is an eight-minute funk track with his unmistakable twangy vocals. For this show, Omar Velasco, a Los Angeles-based folk singer-songwriter, will support him. Tickets are sold out, but you can try your luck for a pair of tickets by entering KCPR’s giveaway on their Instagram now.
Recommended if you listen to Big Thief, Fleet Foxes, Angel Olsen, Fruit Bats.
GOTH BABE AT THE ALEX MADONNA EXPO CENTER
Indie rock turned lo-fi electronic artist Goth Babe (also known as Griff Washburn) will perform at the Alex Madonna Expo Center on Sept. 29 during his 2024 international tour.
Goth Babe’s earlier work, which is noticeably inspired by a fusion of garage rock and psych rock, is a complete 180 compared to his most recent releases that feature upbeat, danceable rhythms. Goth Babe’s new work is beat-heavy and created entirely online, a departure from the guitar-focused sound he was previously making.
The artist will be supported by the Aces, an all-fe-
male indie-pop band from Provo, Utah. Tickets are on sale now through the Madonna Inn website, starting at $43.98 apiece.
Recommended if you listen to Still Woozy, STRFKR, Of Montreal, Hippo Campus.
SUBHUMANS
AT THE CLUB CAR BAR
UK anarcho-punk pioneer Subhumans will tear up the Club Car Bar stage on Oct. 1 during tour dates down the West Coast. Toronto-based queer art-punk band, Bad Waitress, will support Subhumans as a special guest.
Although Subhumans hasn’t released new music since 2019, the group is influential in the world of politically charged punk and alternative music. Since their first studio album, “The Day the Country Died,” the collective has helped form an intrinsic bond between sociopolitical commentary and punk music, inspiring generations of musicians. Tickets are now available online for $23.90.
Recommended if you listen to Crass, Dead Kennedys, GBH, The Damned, or any scruffy English Punk ban.
KING GIZZARD AND THE LIZARD WIZARD AT THE VINA ROBLES AMPHITHEATER
Aussie experimental rock powerhouse King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard will take on the Vina Robles Amphitheatre on Nov. 3 as part of their 2024 US/Canada tour.
In August, the band released their album Flight b741, a groovy, funk-forward collection that welcomes a brief but not unheard-of departure from their psychedelic tendencies. The album is plain old fun and brings in some unexpected but fitting jazz and twangy country elements.
At this show, King Gizzard will be supported by Australian surf rock five-piece King Stingray and Los Angeles-based, vinyl-spinning DJ Crenshaw. Resale tickets are available through Ticketmaster starting at $64.99 each.
Recommended if you listen to Ty Segall, OSEES (previously Thee Oh Sees), black midi, IDLES.
THE DRUMS AT THE FREMONT THEATRE
New York-based indie pop artist the Drums will perform at the Fremont on November 8 for his 2024 South America and US tour.
The Drums released his newest album in October 2023, diving into a characteristically jangly, danceable sound — starkly contrasting the introspective and self-aware lyrics. A departure from the mostly poppy tracks, Jonny mixes in some slower, emotional ballads and more prominent computer-based beats and production. Still, this is unmistakably the same artist who brought us the 2011 album “Portamento” with its hit song “Money.”
Tickets are now available on the Fremont website starting at $34.73.
Recommended if you listen to Beach Fossils, Surf Curse, The Growlers, Joy Again.
Cal State issues ban on encampments. What does this mean for Cal Poly?
BY KRITHI SANKER
When the Cal State system unveiled a new policy prohibiting encampments on Aug. 15, it was met with frustration and disappointment by pro-Palestine student organizers at Cal Poly.
The Cal State’s new policy bans encampments, overnight demonstrations and unauthorized camping items. It also restricts wearing masks that conceal identity during protests and requires written permission for chalking and displaying banners on campus.
It leaves student organizers unsure of how this change will impact peaceful protests on campus – especially when they feel a moral conviction to pursue justice for Palestinians yet experience pressure to diminish their public support for the cause.
Andrew Gould is an animal science junior and an activist associated with Cal Poly’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter and the university’s Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA) chapter. He sees his role as an ally to Palestinians, coming from a German Catholic background.
“I’m also there as a Christian who believes that every one of us has equal dignity, and systems of oppression are profoundly immoral because they take that human dignity away,” Gould said.
The change comes after a year of pro-Palestine activism rattling the system and a state budget agreement requiring universities to send campuswide communications with campus-specific policies.
The plan is considered interim since it does not apply to union-represented employees until a “meet and confer process” is finished with unions like CFA and CSUEU, according to the FAQ page.
These concerns come from witnessing disproportionate multi-agency police responses to the May 1 die-in and the May 23 California Boulevard demonstration — consisting of
officers from campus police, the city’s police department and the county sheriff’s office.
Each campus is responsible for specific parameters of their free speech guidelines such as indicating campus’ operational hours and designating two administration officials for the policy’s execution, according to the Cal State.
Published on Aug. 28, Cal Poly’s campus policy assigned Allison Baird-James, senior vice president of administration and finance, as
It is a little too early for us to see what the enforcement will look like, but it is of high priority for us that students feel they can express themselves freely and not be unjustly met with punitive responses when doing so.
IESE ESERA
President of the Cal State Student Association
the designated university official for these regulations.
However, Baird-James transferred her authority on “oversight, implementation and enforcement” to George Hughes, assistant vice president of public safety and chief of the Cal Poly Police Department. Hughes also serves as the designated liaison managing student and law enforcement relations.
Mustang News contacted the
ALICE SUKHOSTAVSKY | MUSTANG NEWS
Dean of Students Joy Pedersen and the Cal Poly Police Department on Aug. 22; both deferred to university spokesperson Matt Lazier, instead of responding to questions. The Office of Dean of Students created the university’s Freedom of Speech webpage, whereas the Cal Poly Police Department is involved in enforcement of these policies.
From Aug. 22 to Sept. 3, Lazier said he “doesn’t have additional details to share” about Cal Poly’s policy
Despite the seemingly significant change, Cal Poly had an existing encampment ban before Cal State added its own restriction. Other campuses and the Chancellor’s Office had similar bans in place before the system’s new policy, Cal State spokesperson Hazel Kelly said in a statement to EdSource.
Students found breaking the Cal State code of conduct will be reminded of relevant policies and provided with university-approved methods of expression, according to the FAQ page. Subsequent violations may lead to disciplinary probation, suspension or expulsion. Exceptions to this rule include activities either endangering public safety or defined as emergencies.
Employees who violate these restrictions may be subject to discipline, suspension or termination.
ENSURING SAFETY AND SPEECH
Dr. Deb Donig, a Cal Poly English professor and faculty advisor for Mustangs United for Israel, favors a public, transparent, clear, and evenly enforced policy, deeming these qualities “consistent with free speech rights.”
Donig considers consequences as necessary to standardize the limits of free speech. She finds it “questionable” if any ideological group seeks exemptions to comprehensive free speech policies.
Even if bias is a factor in the policy’s enforcement, Donig says Cal State’s nondiscrimination rules and federal law already account for unjust practices.
However, other faculty and students are concerned about how much of the Cal State’s policy, which includes strict punishment for violators, can be left up to interpretation due to broad language.
Dr. Foaad Khosmood, a Cal Poly computer engineering professor, organized against the proposed war in Iraq during his three years as a Cal Poly graduate student.
Upon first glance, Khosmood found one restriction unsettling: preventing access and removing individuals from campus when a designated university official is given
“reasonable cause.”
“On the spot, upon their own personal judgment, the official is authorized to kick a student off campus,” Khosmood said. “The CSU has the audacity to call this ‘withdrawal of consent.’”
The student population has to fight back because the university is not going to fight for us.
ANDREW GOULD Junior and
Animal Science
Khosmood worries that the outcome will stifle free speech rights – targeting unfavorable protestors.
Cal Poly’s role designation legitimizes Khosmood’s prediction: a passive approach by the Cal Poly administration, leaving the responsibility to law enforcement. He also mentions a lack of accountability measures for bad actors, resulting in “more chaos and less safety.”
President of the Cal State Student Association Iese Esera hopes that an equitable implementation of this policy reflects its stated goal of “safeguarding students’ rights of protected free speech.”
“It is a little too early for us to see what the enforcement will look like, but it is of high priority for us that students feel they can express themselves freely and not be unjustly met with punitive responses when doing so,” Esera said in an email to Mustang News.
SPEAKING OUT
Juls Altman, co-chair of Cal Poly’s YDSA chapter and philosophy sophomore, is involved with local pro-Palestine organizing and sees the new regulations as an intentional move to inhibit students’ expression.
“I think that they’re honestly just going to do whatever they can to shut this down because it is not a good look for them at all,” Altman said. “And they could just end this by agreeing to demands.”
Cal Poly YDSA publicized a list of demands on May 6, calling on the Chancellor’s Office and the Cal State Board of Trustees to divest from defense companies and to issue a call for a cease-fire and an arms embargo.
Gould anticipates some students stopping their involvement due to the potential repercussions.
Gould said the May 23 pro-Palestine demonstration serves as a form of resistance to the administration’s unwillingness to hear student concerns and as a direct challenge to the system’s policy that is an “attempt to intimidate.”
Protestors were chanting and circling a crosswalk on a major campus entrance, but Hughes defined this as an “unlawful assembly” because it restricted the movement of cars and pedestrians.
In July, the Chancellor’s Office sought out feedback on the policy from its campuses in the form of email comments, Kelly said in an email to Mustang News. These comments were “thoroughly reviewed and the policy was edited.”
According to Esera, the Cal State Student Association has also been collecting feedback from student leaders for its next public meeting on Sept. 21-22.
To improve existing conditions, Gould encourages peers to continue speaking up.
“The student population has to fight back because the university is not going to fight for us,” Gould said. “They’re not going to protect us. We protect us.”
ALICE SUKHOSTAVSKY | MUSTANG NEWS
¿Qué quieren ver estudiantes Latine/x mientras Cal Poly se prepara a volverse en un HSI? Mustang News les preguntó.
What do Latinx students want to see as Cal Poly prepares to become an HSI? Mustang News asked them.
BY JEREMY GARZA
Cal Poly está acercando al criterio de al menos 25% de la matrícula de estudiantes universitarios siendo hispanos para recibir la denominación de Instituciones de Servicio a Hispanos (HSI). A partir de 2023, estudiantes universitarios Hispanos o Latine/x constan 22.92% del cuerpo estudiantil, de acuerdo con el data matrícula, actualizado por última vez el 4 de enero del 2024.
LA CASA BUSCA EXPANSIÓN
Leticia Marisol Chavira, estudiante de segundo año de ciencias políticas, dijo que conocer gente nueva en las
clases es difícil, ya que normalmente ella es una de las tres estudiantes hispanas en sus cursos. “Hay una desconexión al intentar involucrarse y sentir que tengo un lugar aquí en Cal Poly”, comentó Marisol Chavira.
En el otoño de 2022, se inauguró el Latinx Center for Academic Success and Achievement (La CASA) en el Edificio 52, un centro cultural diseñado para apoyar y celebrar a los estudiantes hispanos y latines.
“La CASA es el único lugar donde he encontrado a otras personas hispanas, como yo, que me dan un alivio al saber que hay otros como yo aquí en el campus”, dijo Marisol Chavira. “Puedo hablar en español y sentir que no estoy perdiendo una
parte de mi cultura mientras estoy aquí”.
Para referencia, el Centro Multicultural se inauguró en 1981; el Centro de Equidad de Género en 1994; el Centro de Hombres y Masculinidades en 2016; y el Centro Dream en 2017, según los sitios web correspondientes de SDAB.
“La CASA está abierta ahora, pero es una tragedia que haya tardado tanto en haber un espacio como eso”, dijo Elias Sandoval, graduado en psicología.
Sandoval dijo que el centro también enfrenta dificultades debido a la falta de liderazgo. Aunque los asistentes estudiantiles y personales de La CASA están haciendo su esfuerzo,
dijo que se necesita un coordinador. Este puesto fue ocupado por el estudiante de maestría Jeremiah Hernández desde que Mustang News habló con Sandoval. En su recomendación, la fuerza especial también estableció el objetivo de crear un nuevo Director de Latinx y HSI Estrategias y Programas, quien ayudará a expandir los servicios de La CASA. La fuerza especial espera iniciar este puesto en los próximos dos años, según Beya Makekau, copresidenta del grupo y vicepresidenta asistente DEI Strategic Planning & Networks. La designación HSI podría significar más fondos para centros como La CASA, incluyendo la extensión
AN ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF THIS ARTICLE CAN BE FOUND AT MUSTANGNEWS.NET
de horarios y la organización de más eventos, lo cual Sandoval cree que son esenciales para crear un sentido de pertenencia para los estudiantes de color.
“En Cal Poly, la realidad es que estamos en una institución predominantemente blanca, y muchos estudiantes sienten que están aquí pero que, para ser franco, no pertenecen a nuestro campus”, dijo Sandoval.
AUMENTAR REPRESENTACIÓN
Sandoval pasó el último año desarrollando un nuevo curso que se enfoca en académicos latines en el campo de la psicología. El curso
es un esfuerzo para descolonizar el campo y recalcar voces de color que a menudo son ignoradas, según Sandoval.
“No se oye hablar de estos pensadores prominentes de América Latina o de culturas en África o Asia”, dijo Sandoval. “Estas diferentes comunidades aportan su riqueza cultural, sus religiones y el conocimiento de sus comunidades.”
El desarrollo del curso, dirigido por los profesores de psicología Susana López y Jay Bettergarcia, fue financiado como una de las 16 mini-becas HSI otorgadas por la universidad, según la recomendación de la fuerza especial.
Sandoval comentó que los cursos centrados en grupos subrepresentados son vitales, pero la representación debería incluirse también en los cursos principales.
“Ojalá no fuera solo ‘psicología multicultural’ o ‘psicología latine’”, dijo Sandoval. “Desearía que no nos relegaran a estas clases que probablemente solo serán electivos. No será algo que la gente tenga que tomar, y por lo tanto, las personas que probablemente necesiten el curso no lo tomarán”.
Más allá del currículo, los estudiantes quieren verse representados en las personas que los educan. Aproximadamente el 7% del profesorado se identifica como hispano o latine, según los datos de empleados de la Investigación Institucional de Cal Poly desde el 17 de enero.
El otoño pasado, la estudiante de segundo año de ingeniería biomédica, Angeni García tomó una de las clases de cálculo de Elsa Medina. Elsa Medina fue la primera y única profesora hispana que tuvo García.
“Era esa figura de modelo a seguir, aunque no creo que ella se dio cuenta”, dijo García. “Si ella pudo hacerlo, yo también puedo hacerlo. Ella se graduó en el campo de STEM, y yo tengo esa misma capacidad. Puede que sea un poco más de trabajo, pero eso es parte de una meta, ¿no?”
Aunque el curso no se enseñó en español, García reconoció parte de su cultura en la profesora, lo cual se recordó de su casa.
“En todas estas clases, no ves mucha diversidad de ninguna manera”, comentó García. “Ella tiene un acento que muestra que su primer idioma es el español. Yo pude entender el acento porque mis padres tienen ese mismo acento”.
VISIBILIDAD MÁS ALTO
La cultura hispana y latina podría mostrarse de muchas maneras para hacer que los estudiantes se sientan más visibles en el campus. Una forma, según la reciente graduada en ciencias ambientales y gestión, Jacquelyn Morales, podría ser con obras de arte en el campus.
“Yo sé que Cal Poly está empezando a hacer algunos murales”, dijo
Morales, “pero son, y no quiero ser ofensiva, del estilo boho de mujer blanca hippie de Scout Coffee. Cuando se trata de murales, creo que sería genial usar esa vía para celebrar la cultura. Creo que la visibilidad es definitivamente el primer paso para iluminar las cosas.”
Morales creció birracial, mitad hispana y mitad blanca. Se sintió más conectada con su herencia hispana cuando llegó a Cal Poly como estudiante de grado.
“Sentí que me identificaba más como hispana durante mi experiencia universitaria, simplemente porque estaba rodeada de tantas personas blancas”, dijo Morales.
“Porque tienes esta chispa de algo diferente, sientes que necesitas protegerla o quieres informar a otros sobre ella o celebrarla, ya que no se celebra día tras día.”
un estudiante de tercer año de ingeniería mecánica. “Sería beneficioso si hubiera más apoyo de Cal Poly porque tengo muchas preguntas para completar el formulario.”
Adrienne García-Specht, copresidenta del grupo de trabajo HSI y consejera de ayuda financiera, explicó que la ayuda para los estudiantes es importante para solicitudes como la del DREAM Act, un proceso muy burocrático para estudiantes indocumentados.
“Muchos estudiantes vienen de antecedentes donde van a utilizar recursos para pagar la universidad”, explicó García-Specht.
Más Allá de los Fondos
La Oficina de Diversidad e Inclusión Universitaria comprometió más de $60,000 a la fuerza especial y las iniciativas HSI en 202223, según la recomendación de la fuerza especial. La recomendación menciona varias áreas en las que se necesitan más fondos.
“No vamos a recibir una cantidad enorme”, explicó Makekau. “En realidad, va a requerir mucha colaboración en el campus y buscar oportunidades para acceder a fondos adicionales”.
Resumen de HSI
Siento que las personas que hablan español están ocultas, En el sentido de que tienes que buscarlas.
ALEXIS CRUZ
estudiante de último año de negocios
Los murales son un “tema importante en la agenda” de la fuerza especial HSI de Cal Poly, según Beya Makekau, copresidenta del grupo y vicepresidenta asistente DEI Actualmente, Cal Poly Leadership and Service está desarrollando un mural para celebrar a la comunidad latine, según Bradley Kyker, director asistente de Leadership & Service para el Centro de Servicio en Acción. Estará en una parte de Sierra Madre y mira hacia Grand Avenue.
El Apoyo de Ayuda Financiero
Cuando Fernández Hernández llamó a la Oficina de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes para obtener ayuda con la solicitud de ayuda federal (FAFSA), pasó por un ciclo de estar en espera y desconectarse de la línea.
Giancarlo Fernández Hernández comentó que el formulario de ayuda financiera es complicado debido a la necesidad de verificar la identidad de sus padres sin números de seguro social, lo que retrasó su avance con la solicitud.
“Estoy muy estresado porque no sé si voy a recibir ayuda financiera o no”, comentó Fernández Hernández,
La designación HSI es solo una designación con la posibilidad de recibir más fondos del gobierno federal. La fuerza especial espera hacer que “servir” sea más que solo un título.
Algunos estudiantes, como Alexis Cruz, estudiante de último año de negocios, creen que el “servicio” toma la forma de educar a toda la comunidad de Cal Poly sobre su cultura, siendo escuchados entre el ruido.
“Siento que las personas que hablan español están ocultas”, dijo Alexis Cruz. “En el sentido de que tienes que buscarlas. Es muy difícil encontrar a alguien que realmente hablo español desde pequeño. Ellos entienden un poco más sobre la cultura.”
Cruz desea que esta cultura no esté restringida a los hispanohablantes o miembros de la comunidad latine.
“Espero eventos que enseñen a las personas sobre la cultura y sobre el español”, comentó Cruz. “Eso haría que más personas aprecien la cultura. Este pequeño espacio [La CASA] no recibe tanta atención. No tiene tanto impacto en las masas.” volor aperum lant auda voluptur?
Verum fugitat uriorem seque verspedi omnis voluptat.
Non nonet fuga. Namus, saped modio quatur autaspero derum qui ut minitibus molore cuptatus ea quae.
[Para que una universidad o colegio sea designada como una Institución de Servicio a Hispanos (HSI), al menos 25% de sus estudiantes de grado deben identificarse como hispanos o latines. Esta designación permite a las instituciones solicitar fondos adicionales a través del Departamento de Educación. Según la Asociación Hispana de Colegios y Universidades, a partir de 2023 habrá 600 HSIs. Cal Poly es considerada una de las 421 HSIs emergentes, universidades o colegios con una matrícula de grado hispana o latina de entre 15% y 25%.]
En 2022, Cal Poly estableció un fuerza especial sobre HSI para ayudar a “servir holísticamente” a la comunidad latina de Cal Poly. Se predice que la universidad alcanzará el estado de HSI en 2026.
La fuerza especial determinaron el objetivo de “proveer experiencias curriculares y extracurriculares diversas que reflejan la riqueza cultural e intelectual de la comunidad latina”, de acuerdo con sus recomendaciones. Mustang News habló con estudiantes latines sobre cómo Cal Poly podría servirles mejor a ellos y a su comunidad. A medida que la universidad se acerca a cambios institucionales importantes, como la conversión al sistema de semestres, reformas en las viviendas dentro del campus o una posible unión con Cal Maritime, los estudiantes latines quieren asegurarse que no sean perdidos en todo el ruido.
Cal Poly Construction for Future Housing Plan results in campus parking lot closures
BY KATY CLARK
In August, Cal Poly started constructing nine new dorm buildings as part of the Future Housing Plan, a $1 billion multiphase construction and renovation project estimated to be completed in 2032.
Cal Poly permanently closed the R1, K1 and K2 parking lots behind the South Mountain Residence Halls, also known as the Red Bricks, where the new dorm buildings will be built.
University Housing emailed Mustang News to say that Klamath Road, Deer Road and Mountain Lane, located by the South Mountain Residence Halls, are closed and only accessible to emergency and service vehicles. Deer and Mountain roads are open to pedestrians, and Klamath Road is open to pedestrians near Vista Grande Dining Complex.
University Housing said that during Mustang Move-In, Red Brick residents can unload along the curb space in front of the dorms.
Under the Future Housing Plan, Cal Poly will add about 4,000 beds to campus by building new dorms, University Housing said. They will also renovate the six Red Brick residence halls, though no new beds will be added to these buildings during the renovations.
When the new housing is completed, all second-year students will be required to live on campus.
According to the University Housing website, this project will follow a modular construction approach, meaning housing units will be fabricated in a factory and brought on-site for assembly. Most residential units will be three-bedroom, two-bathroom suites, with each bedroom designed to hold two people and a living space.
In each building, all residents will share a large community space, study lounges and quiet study spaces.
University Housing said the
project’s first phase will add three residence halls with about 1,348 beds on the south end of the K1 and K2 parking lots adjacent to Fremont Hall (Bldg. 109). These three buildings will open in fall 2026 and fall 2027.
Our two-year housing program is designed with student success and retention in mind, “Cal Poly is committed to building a wellrounded, nurturing support system that positively impacts not only academics but also student life; diversity, equity and inclusion; and health and wellbeing.”
UNIVERSITY
HOUSING
Renovations to Santa Lucia Hall will begin in the fall of 2026 and reopen to residents in the fall of 2027.
University Housing stated on their website that there will be no loss of bed space during this project.
Following the project’s first phase, University Housing said they plan
to demolish North Mountain Residence Halls in summer 2027, which currently houses 339 students, to build residence halls that will house more than North Mountain’s occupancy.
On a Cal Poly Housing Instagram post on July 25, about a dozen commenters expressed concerns about campus parking. Architecture sophomore Adam Binford, who parked in the K parking lots last school year, wondered where “(students) are going to park now?”
“My main concern is for the future years of students,” Binford said. “Since we’re adding [about] 4,000 beds for all second-year [students], we’re left with even less spaces to park. This then leads to the other lots being even harder to get a spot and probably making permits more expensive.”
When asked about the reduction of parking, University Housing said alternate parking could be found in the Grand Avenue Parking Structure and H4 lots for faculty and staff and Structure 1313 and the R3 and R4 lots for residents. University Housing also encouraged sustainable transportation options such as bicycles, carpooling or SLO public transit services.
University Housing told Mustang News that this model will help limit costs, provide quality control and reduce construction noise and disturbances.
There will be no construction during finals week and other high-impact days.
University Housing said it currently houses about 40 percent of the student population, or 8,800 people, on campus. The colleges of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, and Environmental Design, student-athletes, Cal Poly Scholars, and TRIO
for her second year. She was separated from her first-year roommate and said it would be nice to regulate housing so everyone can live nearby in their second year.
Business
“I really wanted to live with [my freshman year roommate] again [sophomore year] because our
living habits went together really well,” Nair said. “[However,] she’s an engineer, and with me being business, I couldn’t live with her again, even though I tried. Everyone I was comfortable living with kind of got separated from me.”
University Housing said this project
will ease existing demand, accommodate future enrollment growth and address aged facilities. “We’re working closely with students, the campus community and project partners to design and build housing that fosters learning, engagement and belonging,” University Housing
Achievers are provided housing for two years in Poly Canyon Village and Cerro Vista. An additional 400 spaces are available through a lottery to the other students.
administration junior Vaishali Nair entered the lottery but did not secure on-campus housing
KATY CLARK | MUSTANG NEWS
The map shows that the new dorm buildings will be located in the spot of the former parking lots behind Red Bricks.
Mustang News and KCPR Present…
Back To SLO Scavenger Hunt
BY MORGAN FITZGERALD
Enter for the chance to win an iPad, giftgards, and more!
ELIGIBILITY:
The scavenger hunt is open to all Cal Poly students. To participate, students must visit designated locations on campus as specified in the scavenger hunt clues.
For students participating in Cal Poly’s Week of Welcome (WOW), the WOW group with the most participation will win an additional prize!
HOW TO ENTER:
Visit any four different locations from the scavenger hunt list. Take a photo of yourself at each location as proof of your visit. Make sure the location is clearly identifiable in the photo.
Submit your four photos to our entry form via Google Forms.
Each set of four different locations qualifies you for one entry into the giveaway.
MULTIPLE ENTRIES:
You can enter multiple times, but each entry must be from visiting four different locations.
For example, if you visit eight different locations, you can submit
two separate entries. If you visit 12 locations, you can submit three entries, and so on.
Each location can only be used once per entry. Visiting the same location multiple times will not count for additional entries.
Submission Deadline: All entries must be submitted by Sept. 29 11:59pm. Late submissions will not be accepted.
PRIZES:
All qualifying entries will be entered into a random drawing. The winners will be selected at random.
The grand prize is an iPad and will be announced on Sept. 30 via social media and runner up prizes will be announced on Oct. 11.
The WOW Group with the most participation will win gift cards to Fatte’s Pizza as an additional BONUS PRIZE!
VERIFICATION:
Photos submitted must be original and taken during the scavenger hunt period.
Any entries found to be using manipulated or fraudulent photos will be disqualified.
GENERAL CONDITIONS:
By participating, you agree to follow the rules and decisions made by the organizers, which are final.
For any questions or concerns, please visit website link, or contact us at advertising@mustangmediagroup.com.
Stay up to date with the hunt by following us @cpmustangnews on Instagram! Keep your eyes peeled for a special bonus prize.
Good luck and have fun exploring campus!
QR CODE FOR THE GOOGLE FORM:
IPAD WINNER ANNOUNCED ON SEPT. 30 AND GIFT CARD WINNESR ON OCT. 11 .!
7. TO FIND THIS ANIMAL MADE OF GOLD, YOU’LL HAVE TO GO OUTSIDE THIS BUILDING ON NORTH PERIMETER ROAD
CLUES
14. ADJACENT TO TENNIS COURTS AND A POOL ALIKE, THIS IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO SPIKE
FIND THIS BONUS LOCATION FOR AN ADDITIONAL ENTRY INTO THE GIVEAWAY:
At this weekly evening festivity where produce, flowers, and tasty food can be seen, take a photo with something Cal Poly Green.
2. IT’S ALWAYS MORE FUN TO BRING A BUDDY TO THIS TEMPORARY PLACE TO STUDY
1. A CENTRAL SPOT WHERE THRIFTING AND BOOTHING TAKES PLACE, STUDENTS ALSO SIT AND ENJOY THE SUN IN THIS SPACE
11. THIS IS A PLACE FOR THOSE WHO LOVE TO PERFORM AND THE IDEA OF FAME, REFERRED TO BY THIS THREE-LETTER NICKNAME
8. PINS FALL AND CHEERS RISE IN THIS UNDERGROUND SPOT, WHERE STRIKES AND SPARES HIT THE JACKPOT
WHEN YOU’RE IN NEED OF A SANDWICH THAT TASTES LIKE HEAVEN, THIS PLACE IS OPEN 24/7
3. TO FIND THE HOME TO THE BAJA BLAST, SOME ON CAMPUS APARTMENTS YOU’LL HAVE TO STROLL PAST
13. CATCH THE LATEST SCOOP, ALWAYS IN DEMAND, FIND IT AT ONE OF THESE 40-PLUS STANDS.
9. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED RIGHT NEXT TO SCOUT, YOU CAN GO HERE IF YOU HAVE A PACKAGE TO SHIP OUT
12. HOME TO ALL THE MUSICAL GREATS, THESE STUDIOS HAVE PLAYED THE HITS SINCE 1968
5. WHERE WELLNESS IS FOUND AND AILMENTS MEND, SEEK THE PLACE WHERE CARE IS THE TREND
15. HOME TO TWO TYPES OF FOOTBALL, THIS FIELD HAS IT ALL
10. FOR GRAB-N-GO FOOD OR A QUICK STARBUCKS RUN, THIS CAMPUS LOCATION HAS PLENTY OF TABLES TO SIT AT AND ENJOY THE SUN 4.
16. THE HOME OF THE STUDENT GOVERNING BODY FOR CAL POLY ITS INITIALS ARE RIGHT ABOVE STRIKES AND COFFEE
6. A PLACE WHERE PITCHES ARE THROWN AND THE CROWDS WILL CHEER, FIND THE DIAMOND WHERE THEY SERVE SOME HOT DOGS AND BEERS
