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October Newsletter

COMS Announcements

Welcome COMS Majors
Welcome to our new COMS majors! The COMS Department hosted a meeting last month for first-years and transfer students to find out how to make the most of their time at Cal Poly. Students learned about semester conversion, getting involved on campus, the debate team, and they also met their COMS academic advisors. Good luck to our new & returning students, we look forward to getting to know you and helping you achieve pathways to success!

COMS Club
Want to get involved in the COMS major, show your engagement in the discipline, and connect with other COMS students? You're invited to attend COMS Club all quarter long! When and where are the meetings? Check out the summary below and visit the COMS Club website or follow their Instagram account for the most up-to-date information!

• Fall Meeting 2: 10/9, Professors & Pastries (O'Neil Lawn)
• Fall Meeting 3: 10/23, Topics in DEI (Building 10, Room 225)
• Fall Meeting 4: 11/6, COMS Alumni panel (Building 10, Room 225)
• Fall Meeting 5: 11/20, Bracelet making + Q&A (Building 10, Room 225)

LPH Recruitment
LPH is the National Communication Association’s official honor society. The organization recognizes the outstanding academic achievements of COMS majors and offers membership benefits including honors status at graduation and ceremonial graduation regalia. To see if you qualify to join, check out the membership requirements and fill out the Cal Poly LPH Interest Form by December 1. Be sure to follow LPH on Instagram @lphcalpoly to stay in the loop. 

Join the COMS Student Advisory Council
Are you a COMS major, minor, or planning to change your major to COMS? We’d love for you to join the COMS Student Advisory Council! This group meets 2–3 times a quarter with the Department Chair (and occasionally other faculty) to discuss issues that matter to students and share ideas for improving the COMS experience. If you’re interested in serving on this advisory committee, please fill out this form by Friday, October 10 and check out the scheduled meeting times below!

• Thursday, October 16, 11:10 a.m.–12:00 p.m. (Intro Meeting)
• Thursday, November 20, 11:10 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Debate Recruitment
The Cal Poly Debate team is recruiting students! The team counts as a 2-unit class, which meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:10-6:00 PM. The focus of the team is on the exchange of ideas, and it provides a wonderful opportunity for students to make a difference through communication! Participating in debate will be especially beneficial for students who are pursuing careers in law, politics, journalism, public relations, ethics, advocacy, or bureaucracy. Check out the Debate Team Page for more information on how to get involved. 

SURP+ Symposium
Congratulations to your peers who participated in recent research through the Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP)! To celebrate the end of the program, your peers will be presenting their original research projects in an upcoming scholarly poster session on Friday, October 10 from 11am-1pm in the Engineering Plaza (between the ATL, Bonderson, and Building 192).

• Eliana Rose Sarfati (Political Science) and Citlali Fernanda Luna Silva (Psychology & Child Development) are presenting their project titled "Latina Testimonios & Community Mapping: Documenting Stories, Transforming Research" (project advisors Dr. Victoria Zamora & Dr. Marion Hart). 

CLA Advising Updated Hours
FYI! CLA Advising has updated their Drop-In hours this quarter to accommodate more availability for student appointments. During add/drop and registration periods, they will continue to hold extended Drop-In hours Monday - Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. And 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. But their regular Fall Quarter drop-in hours have been adjusted to the following: Mondays and Tuesdays, 2 - 4 p.m.; Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.; No drop-ins on Fridays. Students can always find drop-in hours (including any changes to the regular schedule), the link to Drop-Ins, and a link to schedule an appointment on the CLA Advising website. And for information about Semester conversion, CLA students are encouraged to visit the CLA Semester Conversion website. 

Spotlights
We're proud to share the amazing stories of our current students and alumni! This month, we're spotlighting the work and accomplishments of alum Jack Shaw!

• Jack Shaw (he/him; graduated spring 2021), a golden ticket winner from performing on podcast show "Kill Tony," has been touring the country performing stand-up comedy at The Comedy Mothership, The Comedy Store, Bridgestone Arena, and many more. He has appeared in national commercials for Spectrum, Subway, and Sling TV, and has acted in Hulu’s Good American Family and Tubi’s Game Bros. Reflecting on his Cal Poly experience, Jack shared that: “I discovered my love for stand-up at Cal Poly. I have always loved comedy but never thought I could do it until I tried for the first time in San Luis Obispo. I then used many of my communication classes to try out jokes as I am sure some of my professors would remember.” 

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Events & Opportunities

CLA Student Advisory Council
Join the CLA Student Advisory Council (CLASAC)! The council serves as the primary student advisory body that is responsible for communicating student perspectives to the dean of the College of Liberal Arts. The council meets twice per quarter on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with pizza provided. First-year students are not yet eligible, but this requirement does not apply to seats reserved for new transfer students. Students may serve on CLASAC more than once. Nominations (self-nominations encouraged) are due by Wednesday, October 8 by 8 p.m. Students can find out more information and apply online here. 

CSU AI Survey
Want to give your perspective on the use of AI and have the chance to win a prize? The CSU is engaged in an important survey about the uses and concerns related to generative AI (GenAI). They need the opinions of faculty, staff, and students to be heard and considered as CSU continues developing its approach to the technology. The survey will provide a snapshot of how members of the CSU community currently use GenAI, as well as our concerns and training needs. Fill out the 10-minute survey by Monday, Oct. 6 at aisurvey.calstate.edu.

Symposium: Pathway to Becoming an HSI
Join the Office of University Diversity and Inclusion for an immersive day exploring what becoming an HSI means for Cal Poly. In Fall 2024, Cal Poly reached the 25% enrollment requirement to become an HSI, and this event will engage the campus community in our ongoing efforts to holistically serve every student, provide updates on our progress, and present strategies for continued growth. This event takes place Monday, October 6 from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Chumash Auditorium, with a closing community resource fair and concert in UU Plaza from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. Click here to RSVP!

Diversity in Grad Forum
Registration for the "California Forum for Diversity in Graduate Education" at UC Merced on October 18th is now open! This FREE event is open to all students interested in pursuing advanced degrees, including those who may face access barriers. This event will provide expert sessions about selecting the right graduate program, the graduate application process, financial aid opportunities, preparing for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and employment prospects. Check out the forum website for the schedule and more information. Bus transportation from Cal Poly and meals are provided! The registration deadline is October 6th (or earlier if spaces fill). If you have any questions, please email studentresearch@calpoly.edu and visit the registration page. 

LaCASA October Events
The Latine/x Center for Academic Success and Achievement (LaCASA) hosts Heritage month programming, conducts field trips, supports Latine/x cultural organization events, and creates fun events rooted in the diverse needs and experiences of Latinx students. In October, they are organizing the following events:

• Oct 15: State of Latinx, 2 PM (Chumash Auditorium)
• Oct 31: Dia de Los Muertos, 11 AM (UU Plaza)

Explore Cyber Careers & Protect Yourself Online
The Cyber Collective and the Public Interest Technology University Network (PIT-UN) are teaming up to bring you a free, 90-minute interactive workshop this fall: Navigating Digital Harm: Internet Street Smarts + Cyber Career Readiness. This virtual event takes place October 15, 2025 @ 4pm. At the event, you’ll learn how to: Spot and prevent online scams, doxxing, sextortion, and surveillance, apply real-time risk assessment skills, discover career paths in cybersecurity and trust & safety. No tech background? No problem. You’ll leave with tools you can use right away—plus insights to jump-start a future in this field. Learn more and register here!

Strauss Foundation Scholarship
We’re excited to announce that applications are now open for the Donald A. Strauss Foundation Scholarship—a prestigious award that provides $15,000 to juniors and seniors who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and leadership. To help students learn more, they are hosting a live informational webinar: Wednesday, October 15, 4:00 PM (PT) on Zoom (Registration link HERE). During this session, students will gain valuable insights on eligibility, application strategies, and hear directly from the Board of Trustees and past recipients. It’s the perfect opportunity to get questions answered and prepare to apply.

Disney Imagineering Applications
Walt Disney Imagineering invites undergraduate and graduate students to showcase their skills and talents through the Imaginations Design Competition! All finalist teams win an all-expense paid trip to our headquarters in California, where they will present their project to Imagineering executives, compete for awards, and interview for internship opportunities. Apply by October 17 (final submission deadline of November 20, 2025. For more information, please email: wdi.imaginationsentry@disney.com with Subject: "Imaginations Info."

APIDA October Events
The Asian Pacific Desi American Islander Faculty & Staff Association (APIDA FSA) is committed to supporting Asians, Pacific Islanders, and Desi Americans (APIDA) in higher education to become stronger leaders and to creating networking and social opportunities. Want to get involved in APIDA? This month, they're hosting several events! See below for more information:

• Oct 20: Diwali Celebration, 6:30 - 8 PM (UU Plaza)
• Oct 22: APIDA Study Session, 1 - 3 PM (MCC)
• Oct 29: APIDA x International Center Luncheon 12 - 1pm (MCC)

Unconventional Tips for School, Work, and Beyond
Join COMS professors, Dr. Adams and Dr. Nelson, for a special guest speaking event that takes place during Mustang Media Fest! In this interactive workshop, students will explore lesser-known (but highly impactful) lessons drawn from real-life experiences. Through personal stories, candid reflections, and practical advice, Dr. Adams and Dr. Nelson will share insights from their own professional journeys, offering students new ways to think about success, resilience, and self-care in today’s ever-changing society. This event takes place Wednesday, October 22, 2025 10:10 - 11:00 am in Building 26, Room 304 (Graphic Communication). 

COMS Sports Talk with Sarah Spain
Mark your calendars and don't miss the chance to hear from Sarah Spain - an Emmy, Gracie, and Peabody Award-winning sports journalist, podcaster, and activist who's changing the game in sports media. Sarah is the host of the first-ever daily women's sports podcast and a passionate advocate for gender equity in sports. A former heptathlete and co-captain of the Cornell Track & Field team, she knows firsthand what it means to lead, compete, and break barriers. This event takes place on Friday, October 24, from 4:00-5:30 PM in Building 6, Room 124. We hope to see you there! This event is sponsored by CLA & Cal Poly Athletics. 

Workshop: A Vessel for Becoming
Join us for a workshop by Dr. Ghareman, a local and highly respected Clinical Psychologist. In this workshop, Dr. Ghareman will discuss the role of symbols and rituals as essential tools for meaning-making, especially in the second half of life. Participants will explore how traditional symbols may change over time, and how new, living symbols can emerge from within. Through guided reflection and creative practice, you will learn to recognize these images as they arise and engage them as sources of nourishment, transformation, and personal growth. This event takes place Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, 1:00pm - 3:00pm, in the Coalesce Bookstore, 845 Main St. Morro Bay. For more information, check out the event flyer. 

CLA Group Counseling 
Feeling anxious about your career path or just have some questions you've been meaning to ask? You're not alone—and we've got your back. Join a group career counseling session designed specifically for CLA students! This is a supportive space to ask questions, share ideas, and get real advice. Bring a friend—no pressure, just real talk to help you feel more confident about where you're headed. Students during group counseling sessions can learn about career paths, major/minor, job and internship search, interviewing, salary negotiation, grad school, and more!

Student Resources: New Locations
Our campus landscape is always evolving and over summer, several Student Diversity and Belonging programs, including the Black Academic Excellence Center, the Dream Center, and La CASA moved to new campus locations! To find out more information and see which programs have moved and where, visit the Creating Space for Community website. 

Student Support Resources and vCards
Student Affairs is here for you throughout your Cal Poly experience. Want to be able to quickly access resources related to health and safety, university police, the residence halls, and other important on-campus contacts? Visit the Student Support vCards page on your phone! These important contacts, including after-hours numbers, are available to you to support your health and well-being. Click each link to save a vCard to your device so you can reach out whenever you need to.

Free Immigration Legal Services
The California State University (CSU) offers free immigration legal services for CSU students and employees through the nonprofit agency Immigrant Legal Defense (ILD). Attorneys, paralegals and/or accredited representatives from the service providers visit campuses on a routine basis to assist with legal services such as consultations, DACA renewals, and general assistance in filling out forms such as family-based petitions. For more information, visit the immigration legal services website. 

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Faculty & Staff News

Awards

Congratulations to our amazing COMS faculty! This year, we are celebrating the fabulous work of Dr. Megan Lambertz-Berndt:

• Dr. Megan Lambertz-Berndt was the 2025 recipient of the CLA Early Career Award for Achievement in Service! This award recognizes a CLA faculty member for a history of exemplary institutional service early in their career. 

Faculty Updates

Welcome to our returning faculty members in the COMS department at Cal Poly this fall! This year, we're pleased to announce the following updates to our faculty: 

• Dr. Matt Kay is now a full-time lecturer.

Faculty Research

• Dr. Maria Subert's scholarship was recently published in the Handbook of Conflict and Peace Communication, in a chapter titled "A Roma Heritage Pilgrimage: Peace-building and Redefining Identity." This chapter explores how Roma artists used outdoor murals as “heritage pilgrimages” to confront prejudice and reclaim identity. By drawing on myths of the time of wandering (remembered as a free and peaceful ille tempore) and ancient India, the murals present Roma as capable and prosperous, countering local stereotypes. 
• Professor Martin Mehl's collaborative work was published in the AIJournal UK in an analysis article titled "AI Everywhere, Intelligence Nowhere: Why Corporate America’s Trillion‑Dollar AI Bet Is Failing.” This thought-piece examines problems and solutions in relation to the impact of AI on the workplace and society. 

Faculty Service

• Dr. Leslie Nelson is serving as a Faculty Research Mentor for the Communication PhD Pipeline Program (CP3) this year. The program is designed primarily to prepare students of color for a successful academic career in Communication. It is the nation's first national PhD pipeline initiative focused on Communication students in HBCUs. 

Miscellaneous Faculty Announcements

Dr. Leslie Nelson will be holding two helpful COMS Semester Scheduling Overview + Q&A Sessions specifically for COMS faculty. In both sessions, she will: (1) provide a brief overview of changes to our semester curriculum, discuss semester meeting days, and talk through semester time patterns to inform scheduling preferences; (2) provide a detailed overview of the teaching preferences survey for next AY on semesters; (3) address questions and concerns about semester scheduling and the teaching preference survey. See Zoom links on the faculty calendar invites & hope to see you there!

• Session #1: Monday, October 13th, 2025 from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
• Session #2: Thursday, October 16, 2025 from 11:10 AM - 12:00 PM

 

Sharing is Caring

Do you have an announcement to share with COMS majors, minors, faculty, and staff? Email Dr. Brie to find out how to share it! Follow COMS on Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn