Recent News
Mustang Media Fest Accommodations
Aug 5, 2025
We’ve put together a list of lodging options to make your visit to Mustang Media Fest as convenient and comfortable as possible. Each option was chosen for its proximity to campus, overall value, availability, and quality, so you can enjoy your stay without added stress.
Alumni Support Makes Mustang Media Fest Possible
Jul 30, 2025
Since the launch of the Jim Hayes Symposium in 2014, alumni have played an essential role in supporting the Journalism Department’s signature events. This year’s Mustang Media Fest continues that tradition, thanks to the generous contributions of our graduates and their organizations.
Mustang Media Fest - Big names, big opportunities, student powered
Jul 30, 2025
Curious what it’s like to be a real-life spy?
Susan Miller went from Cal Poly journalism grad to undercover CIA officer, leading operations around the globe for nearly 40 years. Now she’s stepping into the spotlight to share her story.
Ever wonder how ESPN gets its news?
David Kraft got his start as a Mustang Daily sportswriter and went on to become vice-president of the network giant's news division, helping shape how millions get their daily sports fix.
Love the West Wing?
Kevin Falls started in Cal Poly journalism—then won four Emmys producing The West Wing and went on to shape hits like This Is Us. He’s back to talk about the value of a Cal Poly Journalism education and share how it all began.
This is Mustang Media Fest.
Four days of storytelling, connection, and inspiration—planned by students and alumni alike. The first two days focus on student career development, followed by a celebration of the department’s most accomplished graduates.
Sponsorship Opportunity – Mustang Media Fest: Celebrating 75 Years of Cal Poly Journalism
Jun 13, 2025
Learn how you can support our student-run celebration of journalism.
Cal Poly Journalism Alumni News
Jun 13, 2025
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2025 |
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Morgan Fitzgerald |
Morgan is a PR Associate at The Arena Group. Morgan was Mustang Media Group’s Marketing and Public Relations Manager during her senior year. |
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2024 |
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Catherine Allen |
Catherine has joined POLITICO as a data/graphics reporter covering energy and environment. Catherine was editor in chief of Mustang News in her junior year. |
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2024 |
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Angel Gaytan |
Angel is a college adviser with UC Berkeley Destination College Advising Corps / Early Academic Outreach Program at Pioneer High School in San José Unified School District. |
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2024 |
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Sarina Grossi |
Sarina is a Morning Edition news anchor at North State Public Radio in Chico, CA. |
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2024 |
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Chloe Lovejoy |
Chloe is a legislative intern for the office of Assemblymember Robert Garcia. Chloe was editor in chief of Mustang News in her senior year. |
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2024 |
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Cayley O’Brien |
Cayley is a venue operations coordinator for BSide, working in the live performance industry. |
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2024 |
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Jessa Rosenthal |
Jessa recently completed a fellowship with California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), earning a graduate certificate in Applied Government and Public Policy from Sacramento State and the Capital Fellows Program. She is joining Nuffer, Smith, Tucker Public Relations in San Diego as an account coordinator. |
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2024 |
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Jordan Triebel |
Jordan is an executive assistant/program coordinator for Dateline & NBC News Studios in New York. |
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2024 |
2025 Mustang Media Hall of Fame Inductees Announced
Jun 13, 2025
We’re thrilled to announce the 2025 inductees into the Mustang Media Hall of Fame!
The Cal Poly Journalism Department celebrates the outstanding individuals who have shaped its legacy — whether through transformative contributions to the department and media organizations or by turning their student media experience into remarkable professional success.
How Students Organized the Inaugural Mustang Media Fest
Jun 13, 2025
In keeping with Cal Poly Journalism’s Learn-by-Doing tradition, this year’s inaugural Mustang Media Fest is being organized by the students themselves.
“We've poured our heart and soul into this project,” said Jennaca Ortiz, a fourth-year journalism student (and now graduate) who headed up the festival’s marketing committee.
Save the date: Mustang Media Fest and Hall of Fame Gala, Oct. 22-25, 2025
Jun 13, 2025
Dear Cal Poly Journalism community,
Happy summer! As the Cal Poly Journalism Department winds down the school year, we'd like to share some news about an exciting event coming this fall.
Join us October 22-25, 2025, for the inaugural Mustang Media Fest, a celebration of Cal Poly media for students, alumni and the entire community — featuring guest speakers including the Jim Hayes Keynote, workshops, and the Mustang Media Hall of Fame Gala.
Mustang News Enters Collegiate Journalism Hall of Fame
Mar 10, 2025
Cal Poly’s Mustang News was recently inducted into the Associated Collegiate Press Hall of Fame, a national organization that recognizes and promotes excellence in student media. The honor comes after Mustang News earned 15 national Pacemaker and Pacemaker finalist awards since 1970. The Pacemakers are known as the Pulitzer Prizes of student journalism.
Save the Date!
Feb 19, 2025
The journalism department is working with students in the capstone public relations courses to plan, organize and run this fall’s Jim Hayes Symposium and its associated programming. Tentatively scheduled for October 24, 2025!