Meet the alumni who represent the best of Cal Poly and Learn by Doing, whether that’s by making a difference through volunteer work, their professions or in their communities. Do you have a story to tell? Let us know!
Among The Vines
Eric Johnson (Agricultural Business, '07) grew up in a family full of Cal Poly alumni and always dreamt of continuing that tradition. Today, Johnson is celebrating a recent promotion to the position of director of viticulture and winemaking at Talley Vineyards in Arroyo Grande, where he began interning at in 2007 during his senior year.
A Fifty-Year Friendship That Began at Cal Poly
Rich Murray (Electronic Engineering, ‘79) and Kirk Branner (Computer Science, ‘79) were lucky enough to meet during their first days on campus in the fall of 1975 and have been close friends ever since.
Cal Poly Rose Float: Celebrating 75 Years of Learn by Doing
A long-standing tradition among alumni, Cal Poly Rose float is the ultimate Learn by Doing experience. Hear from fellow alumni about their experience working with Rose Float, their favorite memories from years past and how the program has impacted their lives post-graduation.
More Cal Poly Proud Stories
From Day Trader to Wall Street
Michael Willis (Business Administration '90, MA Business Administration '91) started day trading as a master's student at Cal Poly, trading from 6 a.m. until noon and scheduling his classes around it.
Willis went on to found ONEFUND, a Wall Street FinTech Company. ONEFUND went public on Friday, January 5, when Willis rang the closing bell. Willis credits San Luis Obispo and the “Learn by Doing” philosophy that Cal Poly offers for his success.
Congratulations, Michael!
An Alumni Engagement
Justine Phipps (Liberal Studies, ‘19) and Will Ingram (Business Administration, ‘19) got engaged in late 2023 and are getting married in July 2024, in Cambria, CA. They met at Cal Poly in 2017 while working for the New Student and Transition Programs and both worked SLO Days and WOW that year.
Congratulations, Justine and Will!
A Helping Hand From Alumni
Samantha Stewart (Wine and Viticulture, ‘22) recently had the opportunity to help open a new tasting room for Alpha Omega Collective in Healdsburg, CA. Stewart found this opportunity by reaching out to one of her old Cal Poly classmates who works for Tolosa Winery, which is part of the collective.
Congratulations, Samantha!