Contact: Cynthia Lambert 
Cal Poly Student Affairs Communications 
cmlamber@calpoly.edu  

SAN LUIS OBISPO — ACPA-College Student Educators International and the EDU Ledger has announced Cal Poly is one of the Most Promising Places to Work in Student Affairs for the seventh time since 2017. 

The university is among 30 institutions of higher learning to earn the honor in 2026. Cal Poly is one of two California State University campuses recognized, alongside CSU Long Beach. 

This year’s honorees were recognized for their focus on staffing practices and work environment, which included key attributes such as family friendliness, salary/benefits and professional development opportunities. 

“This award would not be possible without our talented, collaborative and student-centered team,” said Terrance Harris, vice president for Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. “I am thrilled to receive this award on behalf of our division, because it reflects the collective impact of our work to provide services, support and opportunities for every student.”

The division’s work is intentionally designed to match the quality of Cal Poly’s classroom experiences with out-of-classroom opportunities that embody the university’s Learn by Doing philosophy and meaningfully enhance the student experience. To support staff, the division encourages participation in professional development opportunities and invested in LiftUp, a peer-to-peer recognition program designed to strengthen staff well-being, morale and belonging. 

“This award reflects the heart and dedication of our incredible staff, who uplift one another each day through teamwork, mutual respect, and a shared belief in the potential of every student,” said Jamie S. Patton, associate vice president for student affairs, student development and belonging. “Their passion for helping students achieve their goals makes this recognition possible. 

“We remain committed to supporting each staff member in being their best selves,” Patton added. “While this recognition affirms the progress we’ve made, we know our work continues.” 

This year’s award recipients will be recognized March 31 by The EDU Ledger at the annual American College Personnel Association’s (ACPA) Convention in Baltimore. Awardees will also be recognized in a future issue of The EDU Ledger, which is dedicated to advancing the success of students, faculty, staff and administrators across the higher education landscape.  

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About Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

Cal Poly is a nationally ranked, comprehensive polytechnic university. The division of Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Affairs advances the university’s Learn by Doing mission by fostering student success from admissions through commencement. Grounded in collaboration, data-informed decision-making, and initiatives that promote student engagement and persistence, the division ensures that every student has access to transformative learning experiences, supportive resources, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.