Spring 2010 Newsletter
Live It, Protect It, Explore It!
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Navigation:
Welcome • Water Bottle • Banquet • CalTIA • Belize • RPTA Club • Bruce Baltin • Career Fair •
• Cassie Walitsch • Carrie Nasby • Kiser Retires • Jordan Basile • Adrienne Brabant • Jackie Garcia •
• National Champion • Kelly Rowse • Meet the Staff • Donor Honor Roll • Donate •
FROM MY LITTLE WOODEN DESK…
By: Dr. Bill Hendricks, Department Head
As we wrap up another academic year and look back upon 2009-10 it has simply been an amazing year! In spite of budget reductions, furloughs, an uncertain economy, preparation of a self-study for accreditation, and our first year as the RPTA Department, our students, staff and faculty have shined through it all. A look back 
provides a perspective on just how incredible of a year this has been. We began with a bang at the Department celebration and Vince Gill concert hosted by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. The co-curricular activities continued with our sustainable tourism panel hosted by Hornblower Events & Cruises and a trip to AT&T Park, attendance at the CPRS Conference in Palm Springs by 36 students and six faculty, our annual auction and dinner fundraiser, a professional partners exchange in the San Jose area organized by Rho Phi Lambda, the annual Rho Phi Lambda Career Fair, RPTA Club guest speakers and outdoor excursions, our annual awards banquet, and attendance by 14 students and two faculty at the California Conference on Tourism in San Francisco. We also hosted a campus visit by Bruce Baltin, Senior Vice President of PKF Consulting as a participant in the CSU Hospitality Management Education Initiative adopt-a-campus program.
In this issue of the newsletter you will read in detail about many of the above activities and the accomplishments of a few of our outstanding students. I hope that each of you will take the time this summer to live out the RPTA vision “Healthy Lifestyles, Memorable Places, Life-Enhancing Experiences.” If you are one of our graduating seniors, congratulations, and don’t forget as my dad always said, “keep those cards and letters (emails) coming.”
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS THE RPTA WATER BOTTLE?
By Kerri Ramgren (RPTA '12), Staff Writer
Show us where you have gone by taking the best picture with our new bright yellow RPTA water bottle, making us jealous of your recreational travels and endeavors. 
How do you get an RPTA water bottle? Good question. Students receive one who are involved with the department through professional development opportunities at conferences, Open House, etc.
Alumni receive one by visiting our booth at conferences or by attending special alumni socials. Or, if you have a particularly cool trip planned, stop by the office of Dr. Hendricks or Dr. Brian Greenwood, and they'll give you a water bottle to keep you hydrated along the way (as long as you promise to take and submit a picture).
Submit your picture with your destination to Dr. Greenwood at pgreenwo@calpoly.edu. Give us your best shot!
RPTA CELEBRATES THE "SWEET SIDE OF LIFE"
By Kathy Nishimura (RPTA '11), Staff Writer
On May 27th, 2010, RPTA celebrated the "Sweet Side of Life" at the Annual Year-End Banquet. The event was held at the Madonna Inn and was filled with bright colors and candy of all sorts. Tickets were sold out to this event that celebrated the end of the academic year and the graduating seniors.
Co-chair Dana Matteson stated that a goal of this event was to highlight the graduating seniors as well as create a fun event outside of classroom walls so everyone can take a break from their hectic schedules. The theme for this year’s banquet was chosen from the designs made in the RPTA 420: Festival and Event Management class. The theme “Celebrate the Sweet Side of Life” was a design made by student Katy Gutman.
Stepping into the room was like walking into Willy Wonka’s factory. From a candy bar designed by Cera Singley to candy-like décor and bright colors, it was a kid’s dream come true. Students and faculty dressed up in bright colors and wore dessert-themed costumes. Guests participated in activities that involved having a good time as well as mingling with each other. Some of the activities included games of Twister, Pie-eating/bubblegum blowing contest (won by Jordan Basile), raffles, dancing, and awards.
The following are the awards and scholarships awarded at the banquet:
Outstanding Senior:
Meagan Phibbs
Outstanding Contributions (to Department):
Dana Matteson
Thom Group Award:
Mattie Allison
Outstanding Contributions (to RPTA & Field):
Betsy Kiser (retiring from SLO Parks & Recreation)
Honored Alumnus:
Amy Golladay
RPTA Excellence Senior Project Award
(sponsored by Pismo Coast Village RV):
Jasmine Donnelly & Corbie Smith
Pismo Coast Village RV Scholarship:
Amy Lepp & Kristen McClay
Ashley D. Richardson Scholarship:
Amber Black
Outstanding Graduate Student:
Justin Schmillen
This whole event would not have been possible without the hard work of the planning committee, which consisted of co-chairs Dana Matteson and Heidi Diestel, and members Cera Singley, Jennifer Lovas, Kim Fraga, Courtney Winters, Taylor Shenton, Nika Jalali, Caitlin Suttich, Kelly Vordale, Rusty Bruner, and faculty advisor Kendi Root. This group had been working hard every week since the beginning of the quarter to make this event a success. We would also like to thank the Vordale Family for their generous contribution as well as the Madonna Inn for hosting us.
RPTA HITS THE CALIFORNIA CONFERENCE ON TOURISM BY STORM
By Dr. Bill Hendricks, Department Head
Balancing co-curricular activities and academics can be a challenge for many students; however, this spring during finals week, 14 RPTA students took significant extra steps towards their professional development by attending the California Conference on Tourism. Two of these students, Meagan Phibbs and Corbie Smith received full scholarships to attend the conference from the California Travel Industry Association.
The educational sessions and networking opportunities at the conference were phenomenal. Student attendees volunteered at the Cal Poly RPTA booth during the “Marketplace Lounge” and interacted daily with leading industry professionals. Educational sessions provided cutting-edge information about social media, industry trends, leadership, tourism legislation, sustainable tourism, and traveler demographics.
The conference is perhaps best summed up by comments from a couple of the student attendees. Nika Jalali, who served as a student coordinator for the RPTA attendees, said, “CalTIA was an opportunity for professional and social involvement that I never imagined. The networking opportunities at CalTIA were endless.” RPTA junior
Mike Disraeli stated, “Attending this conference was the best business decision that I have ever made. As one of 14 Cal Poly RPTA students surrounded by some of the most influential people in California, we had a rare chance to make a lasting impression. In addition to the unique networking opportunities, the educational sessions/keynote speakers were informative and inspirational.”
It is only through the financial support of the RPTA family of friends and alumni that the department is able to provide incredible experiences like this for its students. It truly is paying big dividends for RPTA graduates through Cal Poly’s learn by doing philosophy.
To learn more about the California Travel Industry Association, visit: http://www.caltia.com/
BELIZE, "TAKE ME AWAY!"
By Kerri Ramgren (RPTA '12), Staff Writer
Imagine water so clear you can see through to the white sand, crystal blue skies lined with palm trees, surrounded by a tropical rain forest. Words alone, however, are insufficient to describe the picturesque setting of Belize, this past year's destination for the adventure travel and tourism course taught by Dr. Jacobs. Twenty-one students joined Jacobs over Spring Break for a memorable trip to this tiny nation on the eastern coast of Central America.
The group traveled to the Tropical Education Center, then to the 1.5 acre island Billyhawk Caye. They did everything to embrace this once-in-a-lifetime experience incorporating the Garifuna culture of cooking, dancing, drumming, fishing, and visiting Mayan ruins. They also went cave tubing, fishing with the owners of the island, and learned about the surrounding geography and culture.
Tina Condon-Sherwood claimed her “best experience was just getting to know everyone that went on the trip.” She made 23 new best friends by the end and said she “learned a lot about [herself].”
This was the first time that she had left the country, and she encourages those who haven’t traveled yet to go on these adventures with RPTA.
Robert Cooper, an experienced student traveler and adventurer, took last spring's RPTA 412 course (cruise to Mexico). Cooper 
saw the stark contrast between the two and loved them both. Condon-Sherwood and Cooper agreed Belize is the place to learn a lot and have the time of your life!
The adventure travel and tourism course is offered every winter quarter. Students enrolled in that course have the option of enhancing the academic experience through the educational trip over Spring Break. The course and trip are offered annually and have become a staple of the RPTA experience.
(Photos courtesy of RPTA junior Eddie Stefani)
THE RPTA CLUB: SPRING UPDATE AND CLOSING THE BOOKS ON 2009-2010
By Anthonia Edgren (RPTA '12), Editor-in-Training
Open House, spelunking, professional development speakers, Wildflower Triathlon, and Relay for Life. These activities are just a few of the many that have kept the members of the RPTA club involved and active during the Spring Quarter.
At the start of the quarter, members of the RPTA Club represented the department at the Open House event in April educating the community and prospective students about the many opportunities available through the club and department. In late April, several members had the opportunity to join Poly Escapes on a spelunking (also known as caving) trip. Members were able to explore the caves while getting muddy and experiencing something new. Sarah Cerullo, a club member who attended the trip, said, "I had a wonderful time getting to know fellow club members better, pushing myself a little outside my comfort zone in a small, damp and cramped cave, and getting muddy while scaling new found spaces!"
May brought the annual Wildflower Triathlon, one of the largest triathlons on the West Coast with thousands of participants and volunteers who attend each year. Members volunteered at the event, joining forces with the Cal
Poly Club Tennis Team to help run and support the athletes. On May 15th and 16th, the RPTA Club worked towards finding a cure for cancer by participating in the Relay for Life. Members worked hard to get donations and sponsorships raising funds and awareness about the quest for a cure.
As the year comes to a conclusion, the RPTA Club would like to give thanks to its "retiring" board members: Mattie Allison (President), Mike Smith (Vice President), Evie Ewers (Social Chair), Kaitlyn Mullinax (Social Chair), Robert Cooper (Ag Council Representative), Haley Yoder (Secretary), and Kelsey O'Lea (Treasurer).
Club president Mattie Allison expressed her gratitude, “For all the committee members who put together meetings, events, volunteer opportunities, and trips, I thank you. To all the faculty members who supported the club in its drive to stand out among others, I thank you. To all the members who showed up to the meetings, ate otter pops, and were actively involved in numerous events, I thank you. It has been my pleasure to be of service to the department, and I thank you all greatly for the unforgettable opportunity that has been presented. To the future committee members - take this club by the reigns and rock it! You are going to do great things!”
The RPTA Club would also like to give a huge thanks to their faculty advisor, Dr. Brian Greenwood, who has helped and supported the club in all its undertakings this year. The RPTA Club will be back in action next fall quarter with even more exciting events, activities and trips.
Be sure to join the best club on campus this fall!
RPTA RECEIVES A VISIT FROM BRUCE BALTIN
By: Dani Correll (RPTA '11), Staff writer
On Friday, April 23rd, the Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration department was fortunate enough to receive a visit from Bruce Baltin, the Senior Vice President and Executive in Charge of PKF Consulting. Based out of Los Angeles, PKF Consulting provides advisory and consulting services for the hospitality industry. Baltin manages the firm’s Asset Advisory Services on the West Coast.
With over 30 years of experience, Baltin is a highly regarded specialist in the hospitality industry. He is regularly quoted in the media on related matters and speaks periodically to university audiences, including University of Nevada Las Vegas and Cal Poly Pomona. He is knowledgeable in economic, financial, and operational analyses for the hospitality industry.
Baltin’s visit to Cal Poly was made possible thanks to the California State University (CSU) Hospitality Management Education Initiative's adopt-a-campus program. The visit started with a meeting with Bill Hendricks, the RPTA department head. Baltin then attended a meet and greet with RPTA students, hosted by Cera Singley and Lindsay Campbell. Baltin was then a guest speaker in Professor Kendi Root’s Hotel and Resort Mangement class before having lunch with the RPTA Club and Rho Phi Lambda leaders. Baltin finished his visit with a campus tour and meetings with the CAFES management team and faculty.
The RPTA department faculty and students would like to thank Bruce Baltin for taking the time out of his busy schedule to share his experience and knowledge in the hospitality field.
For more information on PKF Consulting, visit: http://www.cbre.us/services/valuationadvisory/pkf-consulting
INTERNSHIP AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND AT RHO PHI RPTA CAREER FAIR
By: Kathy Nishimura (RPTA '11), Staff writer
Rho Phi Lambda is Cal Poly RPTA’s honors fraternity and hosts the annual Career Fair each spring. This year, the event was on May 21st in the Performing Arts Center and showcased internship and career opportunities with many local businesses. President of Rho Phi Lambda, Dana Matteson, stated that the general career fairs at Cal Poly don’t offer many employers in our field. That is why having this career designed for RPTA is such a great opportunity for students in the department.
This year, the fair had a main focus of local employers in the San Luis Obispo area. On the afternoon of the fair, the Performing Arts Center lobby was dedicated to assisting students in search of a summer job or potential internship. All Cal Poly majors were welcomed to this event to network with professionals from the following employers:
* San Luis Obispo Parks & Recreation
* Cass Winery
* Cal Poly Associated Students Incorporated
* Chumash Casino
* Simply Clear Marketing
* Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa
* San Luis Obispo Visitors & Conference Bureau
* Pismo Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau
* Cal Poly Athletics
* V. Sattui Winery
The RPTA department would like to thank these companies as well as the officers of Rho Phi Lambda for creating this great opportunity.
MEET ME AT THE BALLPARK: PART ONE
By: Kerri Ramgren (RPTA '12), Staff writer
At this time of the year, students are stressed by final grades and job searches, but one RPTA student in particular is finishing up an opportunity of a lifetime. Cassie Walitsch has spent the last few months serving as an intern for AT&T Park, home of the San Francisco Giants. Walitsch completed a Sport Management concentration with an emphasis in Event Planning & Management. That unique combination of academic training combined with her experience with the San Luis Obispo Blues and Cal Poly Athletics led to Walitsch being a finalist for internships with AT&T Park and Baseball Operations for the Giants. AT&T Park offered first, and Walitsch's new "office" overlooked the bay with enough seating for 41,915. 
Every day brought new challenges, allowing Walitsch to use the skills learned throughout her experiences here at Cal Poly. Walitsch worked with the event coordinators, the senior events director, the sales coordinator, and also the marketing manager. With her dual academic preparation, she found it to be a “perfect combination for this internship.” She was able to help out with both the sporting side of baseball, as well as the events side of the job. Since most of the events were baseball-themed, Walitsch got the opportunity to experience the sporting aspect at all times.
Not only does Walitsch say that her job was amazing, but that the people with whom she worked were spectacular. She got to know a significant amount of the staff, helping her know the ins and outs of the industry as well as discover networking opportunities. Walitsch’s advice to those wanting a similar opportunity: “Start networking now, at every chance you get, even if you aren’t looking for a job. All the people at the top are at the top because of the people that they know. So look at your senior project as an opportunity to get where you want to go.”
As Pete Rose once said, “You owe it to yourself to be the best you can possibly be—in baseball and in life.”
MEET ME AT THE BALLPARK: PART TWO
By: Alex Biller (RPTA '10), Staff writer
This summer, second year RPTA student Carrie Nasby, has an opportunity that a little over a month ago she thought was improbable. She was recently offered an internship position in her home area of Los Angeles with the Dodgers baseball team.
Nasby took advantage of an email from Dr. Hendricks announcing positions with the Los Angeles Dodgers Street Team being offered by Cal Poly RPTA alumna Emily Meyer. A week after sending her resume and cover letter, Nasby received an e-mail scheduling an interview. Nasby immediately felt discouraged when she walked into a 
room where she was the only person without a Bachelors degree, as the other candidates either were working toward or possessed a Masters degree in sport management. Nasby left the Dodgers lobby thankful for the experience and proud that she made the final 12 out of 500 applicants but felt as if she was the least “qualified” for the job.
Nasby was elated when she received a call a week later from the Dodgers human resources departmen offering her the position. In fact, she had to send an email to get all the information she had missed on the phone because of her excitement. As a Street Team member, Nasby has the opportunity to work in several areas with the Dodgers. Some of her options include: Pre-Game on the field, Post Game, Bleacher Beach section, "This is my Town" section, The Viva Tent, DodgerLife Events, Mobile Marketing, and Auto Alley Sign Ups.
Because of Nasby’s academic plan to focus on an Event Planning and Management concentration, she said she is likely to do most of her work with Dodgerlife Events but would also like to experience many of the other ballpark options. When asked about the summer position with the Dodgers, Nasby said, “I am really looking forward to this position because I feel like I will directly be a part of the fans' experience…I absolutely love that I have options on where I can work. As if working for a Major League Baseball team wasn't exciting enough, I can switch up my shifts to be able to experience all the excitement in each position.”
Congratulations Carrie! We know you will make RPTA and Cal Poly proud.
DIRECTOR OF SLO PARKS & RECREATION RETIRES
By: Kathy Nishimura (RPTA '11), Staff writer
At the Annual Year-End Banquet, the RPTA faculty selected two individuals for an Outstanding Contributions Award, and one of those awards was presented to Betsy Kiser, Director of SLO Parks & Recreation, as a token of the department’s appreciation for all of her efforts in supporting our major over the years.
As Director of Parks and Recreation for the city of San Luis Obispo, Kiser has given RPTA students endless 
opportunities by hiring interns and employing students and alumni. Kiser, along with everyone in SLO Parks and Recreation, love having students as interns because “they are vibrant, fresh, bright, talented, and always eager to share and learn.”
Kiser first became involved with RPTA through its formerly offered concentration in Therapeutic Recreation. Having a Master’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, she was asked and accepted to continue the concentration for Professor Bob Meyers until the last of the concentration’s students graduated. As part of the faculty, she developed the current RPTA 252 class in Special Populations and taught the class until the late 1990s.
Kiser's journey in municipal parks and recreation began in 1987, holding positions with the City of Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, and for the past thirteen years in San Luis Obispo. She began as a Recreation Supervisor and moved up to the Director of Parks and Recreation. Kiser’s favorite part about her career is being able to provide quality services that help build a sense of community in San Luis Obispo and are essential to every citizen’s personal well-being.
The RPTA Department would like to thank Betsy Kiser for all she has done for Cal Poly, the RPTA faculty, and the students. We all wish her a happy retirement!
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT - JORDAN BASILE
By: Alex Biller (RPTA '10), Staff writer
This past winter, Vancouver may have played host to the Winter Olympic Games, but it also hosted Cal Poly’s own Jordan Basile. Basile, who plays on Poly’s Men’s Soccer Club, grew up in Lake Tahoe before coming to San Luis Obispo. He skied competitively on the North American freestyle skiing tour until a tough decision brought him to Cal Poly in 2006. When the Vancouver Olympic Games arrived this past winter, Basile applied for a work visa and was denied, however, he decided that it was too good of an experience to miss and took the quarter off to attend the games.
During his time at the games, Basile hit the slopes to ski, watched event and medal ceremonies, and enjoyed the nightly live music, entertainment, shows and athletic atmosphere. He also had the wonderful opportunity to watch several of his friends from the skiing tour compete, with one winning a Bronze Medal for moguls.
Basile was impressed that most of the people he met spoke more than one language. Basile was very successful in networking, connecting with individuals such as an employee of the Vancouver Olympic Committee (VANOC) who helped shed some light on the production side of the Olympics. He learned that like many other special 
events, the success, organization, and structure of the Olympic Games relies heavily on the help of volunteers. Basile left the games truly excited that he was able to enjoy such a large scale, international event.
An entrepreneur as well as an athlete, Basile started a clothing brand with his friend almost five years ago from a basement in Tahoe City. Today, Basile is still managing his clothing line, TahoeMade Attire, with men’s and women’s clothes and accessories in stores around the Tahoe area. Currently, he is expanding his brand to include more event productions, artist contributions and collaborations, and environmental awareness. With such a great range of talents and interests it can be expected that only great opportunities will come Jordan Basile’s way after graduation this spring.
Check out TahoeMade Attire on Facebook by clicking HERE
INTERN SPOTLIGHT - ADRIENNE BRABANT
By: Dani Correll (RPTA '11), Staff writer
At the beginning of Winter quarter, Adrienne Brabant found herself searching for an internship. Like many other seniors, Brabant had been listening to the faculty’s advice for the past 4 years and had made a point to build a 
solid network. Professor Kendi Root informed her of an internship opportunity with Hospice du Rhone, the world’s largest international celebration of Rhone variety wines. Although Brabant, with an Events Management concentration, had little previous knowledge of wine, she emailed the Director of Hospice du Rhone, secured an interview, and was hired on the spot.
Brabant's internship with Hospice du Rhone was administrative in nature and consisted of a wide variety of responsibilities including: answering phones, responding to emails, updating an Excel database, and doing inventory of all of their wines. The largest of her responsibilities was to assist in the planning and execution of Hospice du Rhone’s 18th annual three-day wine event held in Paso Robles, CA on April 29 through May 1. Suppliers to this event came from around the globe: Paso Robles, Napa Valley, Washington, Australia, and New Zealand.
Brabant said that the best part of the internship was knowing that all of her hard work over the past 4 years has paid off. She was able to apply knowledge learned previously in event management classes to her responsibilities with Hospice du Rhone. The hardest part of the internship was the working around a lack of time and man power, coupled with a lack of sleep.
After graduation, Brabant plans to travel, including a biking trip from Canada to Mexico in July. She also dreams of living in France or traveling to Spain before possibly opening an events management company in the Bay Area. Brabant’s advice to future internship-seeking students: Get to know the faculty. The more they know you, the better the recommendation they can give you. Know yourself; know your strengths and your weaknesses. Also, always remember to build your network. Great advice from a very successful student intern!
NEW STUDENT SPOTLIGHT - JACKIE GARCIA
By: Alex Biller (RPTA '10), Staff writer
Jackie Garcia, a first year RPTA student from Bakersfield, has always been fascinated with the Disney Company and that is what ultimately drove her to the RPTA major. She says that her “ultimate career goal is to work for Disney in anything related to event planning, tourism, or public relations.” 
Prior to coming to Cal Poly, she had been active in Future Farmers of America (FFA) in high school, following the path that her two older brothers took in joining the program. Over spring break, Garcia was given the opportunity to attend the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) conference at Disney World free of charge. The conference focused on leadership and diversity and according to Garcia, “was the perfect combination for me: agriculture, leadership, diversity, and Disney.”
While at the conference, Garcia was one of 24 others from around the nation that competed in a public speaking contest. The top six speeches were chosen to be given at the conference where they would be judged. Garcia was one of the top six selected, and she performed her speech at the conference. Her speech, “Development Through Diversity" took second place, and she was awarded with a $200 prize. In addition to this honor, Garcia was elected to serve as an officer for FFA.
Following this school year, Garcia will take the year off to serve as the California Association FFA State Secretary. California’s FFA has over 68,000 members. and approximately 5,000 of those members attended the annual State FFA Conference where Garcia was elected. She went through the four-day interview process and was one of the six elected from the original 70 candidates. Garcia states that, “the main objective of this year of service is to be an advocate for agriculture education and the agriculture industry as a whole. I am very passionate about agriculture, as it is the industry that provides for us all; food, clothing and shelter.” 
Garcia will move in to the FFA Center in Galt, CA on June 12th with the other elected officers. Her summer will consist of traveling throughout California and to other states attending leadership training conferences with the other 5 elected officers. Towards the end of summer and into the next year, the officers will begin putting on their own conferences and workshops. When school begins next year, the officers will travel to high schools throughout the state presenting agriculture and leadership-based curriculum that she and her fellow officers have created. The officers are set to travel between 40,000 and 50,000 miles in California alone and visit over 100 high schools. She will continue traveling and teaching until new officers are elected at next year’s California FFA Conference.
Congratulations to Jackie and we wish you continued success. We know you will make us proud!
SWIM/BIKE/RUN, CHRIS, SWIM/BIKE/RUN!
By Anthonia Edgren (RPTA '12), Editor-in-Training
Chris Stehula, a graduating RPTA senior, has finally achieved what he has been working towards for six years, the title of USAT National Collegiate Champion. In an interview with Slowtwitch.com, Stehula stated, “I was training to win this year. Everyone underestimated me except my training partners. I couldn’t have done this without them. This was my last chance and I knew that I needed to step up and kill it.” And "kill it," he did. Crossing the finish line at 1 hour, 48 minutes and 54 seconds, Stehula claimed victory and achieved his goal.
By virtue of his collegiate national championship, Stehula, a native of San Luis Obispo, was invited to attend the International University Sports Federation’s (FISU) 10th-annual World University Championships in Valencia, Spain this past May. The draft-legal team racing style was new for Stehula, as he finished "somewhere in the 25-35" range. The experience was incredible, however, as Stehula learned a lot about team racing and got to spend a day in Barcelona in addition to the time in Valencia with other world-class athletes. After graduation, Stehula plans to focus on a professional career as a triathlete. Congratulations to Chris Stehula and best of luck in your athletic career.
To read more about Stehula's victory, click here for an EverymanTri article.
NEW STUDENT SPOTLIGHT - KELLY ROWSE
By Kathy Nishimura (RPTA '11), Staff Writer
From her hometown of Pleasanton, California, Kelly Rowse had always known she wanted to attend Cal Poly. “It has been my dream school since I was a child,” she stated. She loved the atmosphere, beach, and people of the town, all of which contributed to that dream.
Her interest in RPTA was sparked by Alyce Henry, a neighbor and alumna of the department, who also shared her love for event planning. Rowse’s favorite part about Cal Poly thus far has been the amount of opportunities she is constantly given to expand her learning through Cal Poly’s motto “Learn-by-Doing.” These opportunities have allowed her to take classes that provide hands on experiences such as a floral arrangement and event program planning in RPTA 210.
Outside of the classroom, Rowse is on the Cal Poly Women’s Soccer Club. She enjoys being able to travel with the team and even made it to Nationals in Phoenix this past year. During the rest of her time at Cal Poly, she hopes to travel, learn French, and study abroad in France. This summer, Rowse will be interning and assisting in weddings under the special events coordinator at Wente Winery in Livermore.
In regards to future career goals, Rowse stated, “I would really like to stay in the event industry and see where it takes me.” Rowse advises high school students who are interested in RPTA to discover their passion. “Find out what you want to do and start trying different areas,” she stated. There are many different directions that RPTA can take students. Experiencing different areas can not only build up résumés, but also help discover one’s passion.
MEET THE STAFF OF "THE REPORT"
Anthonia Edgren (RPTA '12), Editor-in-Training
Going into her second year, Edgren looks forward to once again writing for The Report and serving as the Editor in 2010-2011. Planning on concentrating in Sport Management with an emphasis in Event Planning and Management, Edgren would like to one day become a manager for the San Diego Chargers, her hometown team. Her favorite activities are being with family, watching football, playing tennis, Tae Kwon Do, and having a nice cup of coffee.
Anna Dickson (RPTA '10), Outgoing Editor
Dickson served as the Editor of "The Report" this past academic year after serving as assistant editor the previous year. As editor, she was responsible for assisting to revamp the format for the newsletter, adding staff writers, and developing a more seamless system for staff communication and editing through Google Docs. Dickson handed the editorial reins over to Anthonia Edgren this last quarter and focused on being a culinary adventure blog writer under the moniker Chef Banana. Check out her blog at www.chefbanana.wordpress.com
Thanks to Anna for her service to "The Report" and congratulations on graduating!
Alex Biller (RPTA '10), Staff Writer
Biller is one of our 2010 graduating RPTA seniors. He is finishing his time here with a concentration in Sports Management and an internship with the SLO Rattlers over the summer. In his lifetime, Biller has broken over fifteen bones in his body a tribute to his adventurous personality. From Encinitas in San Diego Biller has a true passion for sports cheering on his favorite hometown teams, the San Diego Chargers and Padres.
Thanks to Alex for his service to "The Report" and congratulations on graduating!
Dani Correll (RPTA '11), Staff Writer
Correll is looking forward to her second year at Cal Poly after transferring from a Junior College. She plans on concentrating in Event Planning and Management and is already gaining experience working at the Cliffs Resort. A talented individual, Correll is a salsa instructor as well as a fire dancer, a talent she learned while in Honduras.
Kathy Nishimura (RPTA '11), Staff Writer
Nishimura is looking forward to her last year at Cal Poly. An eclectic individual, Nishimura loves her heritage and culture teaching traditional Japanese folk dance in addition to her love of being crafty. The four loves of her life are her family, food, Hawaii and Disneyland. A true RPTA major, Nishimura truly understands the value of loving what you do.
Kerri Ramgren (RPTA '12), Staff Writer
Ramgren is from Ventura, a small beach town south of Santa Barbara. A second year student, Ramgren declared her concentration in Event Planning and Management, finding her passion for planning events while working for a country club in Santa Barbara. In the future, Ramgren hopes her career will develop into a successful position as a wedding planner.
Staff for "The Report" are nominated by RPTA faculty for demonstrating excellent writing skills in RPTA classes. Student writers then coordinate with the editor and faculty advisor Dr. Brian Greenwood to develop and write articles.
If you have ideas for stories, ideas about how to improve The Report, and/or feedback about the current or past issues, please feel free to email us at rptanewsletter@gmail.com.
RPTA DONOR HONOR ROLL (APR 2009-May 2010)
The RPTA students, faculty, and staff would like to acknowledge the generosity of our numerous donors and sponsors over the past year. This support allows us to reach new heights in student and program development. Thank you very much!
| Organizations | |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | Hornblower Cruises & Events |
| Bradford Renaissance Portraits | Los Angeles Dodgers, Inc. |
| Chumash Casino & Resort | Pismo Coast Village RV Resort |
| Individuals | |
|---|---|
| Daniel P. and Linda G. Brunello | Robert H. Kautz |
| Mike and Tamara Hollingsworth | Dawn Knighton |
| Brittany J. Jordan |
| Organizations | |
|---|---|
| Academy Travel School | Mammoth Mountain Ski Area |
| Camelbak Products | Sugar Bowl Ski Resort |
| Equillibrium Fitness | Sun Buggie Fun Rentals |
| Hollingsworth Jewelers Gallery | Tri-California Events, Inc. |
| Hospice du Rhone |
| Individuals | |
|---|---|
| Megan R. Bleichner | Daniel M. and Maureen McGee |
| Alice T. and Stephen M. Cass | Barb and Rick Modlin |
| Ed and Jan Fraga | Gabriele and Robert Mullinax |
| Dana A. and Jeanne T. Karcher | Katherine A. Petker |
| Karen Kesselman | Carolina Ramirez |
| Courtney L. and Kenneth P. Kienow | Ann and Robert Schiebelhut |
| Betsy Kiser | Justin Schmillen |
| John W. Koeberer | Don and Kim Spare |
| Kris W. and Carey Koeberer | Stacey M. Stanek |
| Bob and Kathee Kraker |
| Organizations | |
|---|---|
| Bien Nacido Vineyards | Lush Limo |
| The California Parks Companies | Legoland California |
| Cass Winery | Matuse, Inc. |
| Cypress Ridge Golf Course | Menlo Park Fire Department |
| Don Spare Enterprises | J. Kenyon Rupnik, M.D. |
| Fullerton Photographics, Inc. | Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance |
| Ken Kienow Wedding Photography | Passport Health |
| Knighton's Limousines | San Jose Sharks LP |
| Law Offices of Daniel McGee | Tolosa Winery |
| Le Boulanger |
| Individuals | |
|---|---|
| Geoffrey A. Auslen | Tina Hoppe |
| Robin Baggett | Nathalie R. Humphry |
| James G. Battersby | Elizabeth A. and Richard Hunter |
| Lori J. and Michael C. Bickel | Dee M. and Lori M. Jordan |
| Anne Boswell | Debra Kamber |
| James W. and Suzanne A. Boswell | Jeffrey B. and Maegen Loring |
| Jack and Julie L. Carlile | Barry Lundgren |
| Brady D. Cherry | Mary E. Marsella |
| Gloria D. and John G. Choma | Richard L. and Janice D. Matteson |
| Mark Corella | Karin and Robert Montoya |
| Jim D. and Karen M. Dockery | Margaret M. Morton |
| James I. and Jeannette L. Efird | Linda and Wayne Nasby |
| Danielle Y. Fabela | Theresa Osorio |
| Charlotte E. Gorton | Christopher J. and Renee B. Phibbs |
| Trevor S. and Sarah T. Harding | Elizabeth and Willie Reichenstein |
| Ryan J. Hatheway | Kendi K. and Robert Root |
| Tisha A. Hawkins | Stephanie A. Schoen |
| William B. Heater | Karen L. and Robert Voorhis |
| Jennifer Hix | Britta and Kelly Wallace |
| Heidi D. Hodges | Kathleen Willbanks |
| Austin Hope | Holly and Rodney L. Williams |
| Organizations | |
|---|---|
| AT&T Park | Pasolivo Olive Oil |
| Avila Beach Resort | Planet Beach Tanning Salon |
| Bob Voorhis Construction | R. Williams Construction |
| Central Coast Kayaks | Rancho Maria Golf Club |
| Cline Cellars | Robert Montoya Dental Lab |
| Cobra Consulting | Sacramento Kings |
| Cowboy Cookies N Grub | San Luis Rides |
| Del Mar Thoroughbred Club | Santa Cruz Surf School |
| Frank's Famous Hotdogs | Sea World |
| Great Harvest Bread Company | Six Flags Magic Mountain |
| Hearst Castle | Skydive Santa Barbara |
| Hertz Rent-A-Car | Slo-Op Climbing & All Out Event |
| Hope Family Wines | Sports Forum |
| House of Blues San Diego | The Park Restaurant |
| J. G. Boswell Company | Tigerlily Salon & Spa |
| Laetitia Vineyard & Winery | Wells Fargo & Company |
| Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort | Wheel Fun Rentals |
| Monarch Dunes Golf Course | Wine Wrangler |
| Monterey County Parks | Woodruff-Sawyer & Company |
| National Outdoor Leadership School | Your Organized Office |
| Individuals | |
|---|---|
| David P. and Denise M. Adams | Kristin E. Jackson |
| Stacie M. Allan | Jeffrey A. and Jennifer J. Jacobs |
| Ellen Allan-Dunder and George Dunder | Margaret L. and Richard A. James |
| Kathleen R. Allenbach and Phillip H. Kessler | Barbara C. Jauregui |
| Steven M. Arechiga | John and Pauline Jolliff |
| Jilian R. Armstrong | Edward V. and Penny P. Jordan |
| Nellie R. Aube | Olivia J. Keil |
| Lee R. and Cheryl L. Baker | Bill and Debbie Kellogg |
| Ryan R. Baker | Jeffrey J. Kendall-Weed |
| Carmella M. and Eric V. Beck | Lacey E. King |
| John S. and Pauline M. Beck | Sally Kleffman |
| Sarah L. Beck | Kelly K. Kuether-Gowing |
| Steven G. Becker | Elizabeth H. Lane |
| Deborah L. and Hugh A. Bello | Debbie and Randy Lepp |
| Toren J. Bentson | Gregory Lupfer |
| Curtis G. Black | Melinda I. Lynch |
| Adrienne E. Brabant | Caitlin B. Lyon |
| Alexis A. and Shawn T. Braun | Heather B. Machado |
| Ann E. and Jeff Brooner | John C. and Sheila M. Maher |
| Candace E. and Christopher S. Brown | Brian M. Manoogian |
| Kristina G. Brunello | Gail McDonald |
| John J. Bullaro and Cynthia D. Moyer | Donna G. and Duane P. McRoy |
| Tessa C. Bunge | Amanda M. Milholland |
| Janet L. and Randall Burns | Lindsey N. Miller |
| Chelsea M. Buttress | Steve T. Miller |
| Deborah M. and Mark Buttress | Cheryl R. Miyahara |
| Barry L. and Diane S. Campbell | Paul Montoya |
| Craig A. and Janet E. Carlstrom | Molly Q. Morrison |
| Keely A. Carollo | Brent R. Mosbacher |
| Bret M. and Lani Colhouer | Christine A. Ohara |
| Megan L. Conatser | Joni C. Parmer |
| Danae G. Cook | Nicole M. Passeggi |
| Corey A. Cox | Stephanie A. Payan |
| Patricia C. and William P. Cox | Robin L. and Douglas A. Perrin |
| Richard E. and Terrie J. Cresci | Heather A. Plasch |
| Jeannie M. DaQuino | Patti B. Remmenga |
| Christina De Ocampo | Rachelle R. Rianda |
| Margarita V. and Noel R. De Ocampo | Jennifer E. Ridder |
| Jill M. and Gerald E. DeMers | Amy A. Rossi |
| Stan and Susan Devoto | Scott M. and Mary Ann Sanford |
| Auraly F. and Craig A. Dobbs | Kyle D. Schnurr |
| Ellen T. and Chesley M. Douglas | David R. and Julie A. Sears |
| Christopher and Rosalie Ennis | Carolyn B. Shank |
| Peggy E. Eriksen and Richard A. Faenzi | Laura Siegel |
| Heather M. Ferrai | Randy Singley |
| Richard D. and Melanie Fessler | Sue and William J. Sinnott |
| Parine Fowler | Brett C. Smith |
| Gustavo and Paige M. Fuenmayor | Anne F. Sobieralski |
| S. Fujitani | Timothy A. and Moira Solle |
| Diane and John Gerbrandt | Colleen and Richard Stein |
| Riley C. and Serena M. Gerbrandt | Richard A. and Cheryl L. Strahl |
| Anne C. Giapapas | Stacy M. Tabuena |
| Brent and Terry Gillespie | Heather E. Thomas |
| Gloria Givens | Kurt C. and Melinda A. Thomas |
| Marni A. Goldenberg | Kelly A. Tobin |
| Amy L. Golladay | Cody Velasco |
| Kevin J. Gonzalez III | Tim Walash |
| Brian and Jerusha Greenwood | Michael D. and Sally H. Walitsch |
| Timothy L. and Susan R. Haenny | Elisa C. Weaver |
| Rebecca M. Hale | Dawin D. Whiten |
| Greg and Maureen Hamson | Jan E. and Roy F. Woods |
| William W. and Margaret S. Hendricks | Mallory J. Woods |
| Brenda and Patrick Hill | Gregory A. and Pamela L. Yoder |
| Lori K. Holzer | Jill and Michael D. Young |
| Todd M. Hove | Sara Zelman |
| Judy and Vic Hutchins |
| Organizations | |
|---|---|
| AnnEvent | National Geographic Traveler |
| Classic Electric Inc. | PKDAL Enterprises LLC |
| Coast Hills Community Foundation | San Luis Obispo City Parks & Recreation |
| Hospice of San Luis Obispo County |
Thanks again to all of the individuals and organizations who contributed to RPTA over the past year!
If you are interested in donating, please click the link below or contact department head Dr. Bill Hendricks at whendric@calpoly.edu
Make a Donation
Make a donation to the Recreation, Parks, & Tourism Administration Department!