Honored alumni Awards Celebration
For more than 60 years, the Honored Alumni Award has served as the highest honor bestowed upon Cal Poly alumni. The awards recognize alumni from each of the university’s six academic colleges, Cal Poly Athletics and the Cal Poly Alumni Association.
2025 Cal Poly Honorees
Bailey College of Science and Mathematics
Tony Aghazarian
(Physics, '96)
Tony Aghazarian, a 1996 physics alumnus, spent more than 23 years at Apple leading new product introduction and factory design, including the first iPhone. He has supported the Bailey College Innovation Initiative and helped place Cal Poly students in internships and jobs, including at Apple.
Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Tim Doelman
(Dairy Science, '96)
Tim Doelman, a 1996 dairy science alumnus, is an entrepreneur, scientist and business leader who has significantly impacted the dairy industry, including as CEO of fairlife LLC, a Chicago-based health food company. Doelman’s daughters are also Mustangs, and he is a generous supporter of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences.
Architecture and Environmental Design
John Donahoe
(City and Regional Planning, '84)
John Donahoe, a 1984 city and regional planning (CRP) alumnus, has served as an adjunct faculty member and vice chair of the CRP Advisory Council. His experience leading complex and impactful land-use projects is matched by his influence on the CRP department, where he has strengthened the bridge between academia and industry.
Engineering
Robert Dathe
(Mechanical Engineering, '60)
Robert “Bob” Dathe, a 1960 mechanical engineering (ME) alumnus, has shown his dedication to the field and commitment to quality as president of A&B Die Casting and Benda Tool & Model Works. Dathe and his wife, Carlotta, helped establish the Cal Poly Dathe Family Student Project Center, a dynamic outdoor workspace.
liberal arts
Megan Lester
(Graphic Communication, '00)
Megan Lester, a 2000 graphic communication (GrC) alumna, has a history of excellence in the industry, including roles at leading organizations such as RR Donnelley and IWCO Direct. She gives back by mentoring students, volunteering with the GrC Advisory Board, and fundraising and planning events for the Cal Poly Alumni Association Orange County Community.
Orfalea College of Business
Simon Arkell
(Business Administration, '94)
Simon Arkell, a 1994 business administration alumnus, is an engaged philanthropist, volunteer, entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He has been a leader at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a former member of the Dean’s Advisory Council for the Orfalea College of Business, and a member of Cal Poly’s President’s Council of Advisors.
Athletics
Noreen Martin-Hulburd
(Home Economics)
Noreen Martin-Hulburd, a home economics alumna, is a champion for women’s athletics and a mentor to future female leaders. Her generous contributions have shaped the future of Cal Poly Athletics by elevating several sports facilities and resources while empowering countless female student-athletes to excel both on and off the field.
CPAA Distinguished Service Award
John Goble
(Electronic Engineering, '86)
John Goble, a 1986 electronic engineering alumnus, has a deep commitment to the success of current and future Cal Poly alumni. A former Cal Poly Alumni Association Board member, Goble often guest lectures in the College of Engineering and the Orfalea College of Business and participates in student roundtable discussions and mentoring sessions.
Sandra Gardebring Ogren Leadership Award
Basia and Troy Gillespie
(Business, '85)
Basia and Troy Gillespie, both 1985 business administration alumni, have strengthened Cal Poly through leadership, volunteerism and philanthropy. Their service on the Cal Poly Foundation Board and the CAFES Dean’s Advisory Council, along with support for programs from business and agriculture to athletics and scholarships, reflects their commitment to the university.
Honored Alumni: A legacy of learn by doing
Through their contributions to their fields, to Cal Poly, and their impact in their communities and beyond, our Honored Alumni represent the best of Learn by Doing.