The Cal Poly Pomona logo symbolizes the community and strong interconnection of the university’s academic programs and departments. Its design conveys the idea of close collaboration between various academic fields, creating the image of a unified educational environment. Theory and practice intertwine to form a complex and remarkable pattern, representing students’ and faculty’s future discoveries and achievements.
This visual symbol reflects the essence of the learning process, where the harmonious blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills forms the foundation for innovation and progress. The logo emphasizes the university’s role as a place where education becomes a transformative process, creating new opportunities and scientific breakthroughs.
Cal Poly Pomona: Brand overview
In 1938, businessman Charles B. Wurzberger donated 813 acres of land in Pomona, California, to California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) to establish a new campus. This generous gift began the university’s history, paving the way for what would become one of the country’s leading polytechnic institutions.
The property was initially a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo branch campus focusing on agriculture, horticulture, and animal husbandry. At its inception, the area had few buildings, and most classes were held outdoors.
World War II interrupted the campus’s expansion when the U.S. Army used the area for military training. After the war in 1949, industrialist W.C. Kellogg donated an additional 813 acres, doubling the campus size and providing significant opportunities for further development.
In 1956, the campus separated from the California State Colleges system and became part of California State University. This was a pivotal moment, giving it autonomy to chart its own growth and academic direction.
The 1960s were a period of rapid development. New academic buildings, residence halls, and sports facilities were constructed, and the student body grew along with the academic offerings.
By 1966, the institution received full accreditation as a four-year institution, allowing it to grant bachelor’s degrees, significantly enhancing its reputation and appeal to prospective students.
The university grew during the 1970s, particularly in architecture and environmental design. The newly established Department of Architecture quickly gained national recognition. Expansion continued through the 1980s, especially in engineering and technology programs, with the College of Engineering becoming a flagship program supported by research initiatives and industry partnerships.
Substantial infrastructure improvements, including new laboratories, computer centers, and libraries, were made in the 1990s to keep pace with technological advancements.
The 2000s saw continued growth and innovation. New information technology, biotechnology, and sustainable development programs were launched, and global connections were strengthened through student and faculty exchange programs.
In 2010, the institution celebrated its 75th anniversary, by which time it had become widely recognized for its excellence in engineering, architecture, and agriculture. The transition from a quarter-based academic calendar to a semester-based schedule in 2018 further aligned the university with other institutions, making transfers easier for students.
In 2019, opening a $79 million student center provided a central hub for campus life.
By 2023, the university had solidified its status as one of the top polytechnic institutions in the U.S., known for its “learn by doing” educational philosophy and strong engineering, technology, business, and design programs. It continues evolving to meet society’s changing needs and the job market.
The Cal Poly Pomona Broncos represent the university in various collegiate athletic competitions. The university’s teams compete at the NCAA Division II level as part of the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA). The Broncos take pride in their history of success in basketball, soccer, track and field, and volleyball.
Throughout its history, the institution has remained dedicated to providing hands-on education that prepares students for successful careers in a rapidly changing world. The university has significantly impacted education in California and nationwide, from its humble beginnings as a branch campus to its current position as a leading polytechnic institution.
Meaning and History
What is Cal Poly Pomona?
This is a public university (California State Polytechnic University, Pomona) known for its experimental teaching methods. The campus, spanning 1,438 acres and part of a historic horse ranch, offers students a unique blend of modern urban amenities and a rural atmosphere. The university provides various majors, including engineering disciplines, agribusiness, hospitality management, and architecture. It stands out among other institutions with its extensive orchards and Arabian horse breeding program. Students benefit from small class sizes and numerous opportunities to participate in real-world projects and research under the guidance of faculty, enhancing their hands-on experience and interaction with the teaching staff.
Before 2018
The university emblem symbolizes half an archway divided into three segments, each resembling elements of the letters “CPP”—the initials of the institution’s name. These parts form a strong structure, emphasizing the university’s core principles.
At the center, sheltered under the arch, is a young plant, symbolizing the growth and development of a new generation of professionals. This image reflects the university’s commitment to nurturing future leaders by providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career.
The university’s full name is below the image. The abbreviation “Cal Poly” stands for “California Polytechnic,” while “Pomona” indicates its location since 1956. The university is closely tied to this region, and its history is inseparably linked to the land on which it was founded.
The green emblem symbolizes life, highlighting the university’s deep connection to nature. This color refers to the institution’s past, which began on farmland and grew thanks to Pomona’s W.K. Kellogg Institute of Animal Husbandry. The campus is rich in greenery, with gardens and groves remaining an important part of the grounds. At the same time, the university continues to uphold its traditions, including the breeding of Arabian horses.
2018 – today
The Cal Poly Pomona logo is an octagonal faceted ring designed in a metal-like style. This symbol is an ornament; each of the eight facets represents the university’s eight colleges. This element highlights the importance of collaboration between various educational disciplines, which interact and complement one another.
One section of the ring is highlighted in green and yellow and transformed into an arrow pointing to the right, toward the university’s name. This forward motion symbolizes the university’s commitment to progress, innovation, and development in scientific and educational fields. The green arrow connects with the word “Pomona” in the same shade, reminding us of the campus’s green spaces, connection to nature, and commitment to sustainability.
The faceted structure of the ring symbolizes the combination of theory, practice, and research—the three core principles the university takes pride in. The emblem conveys a sense of reliability and strength, reflecting the university’s strong standing in the academic community. The ring appears unbreakable, symbolizing the power of knowledge that students gain at Cal Poly Pomona.
The logo’s font is simple and modern, emphasizing the educational process’s accessibility and innovation. The combination of blue and green colors reflects nature and the drive toward constant progress.