Worker Bees

These hard-working coordinators ensure Poly Royal's success

BY ASHTON COVINGTON

Cal Poly's Poly Royal — the world’s largest college rodeo — would not exist without the help of hundreds of individuals who contribute to the planning and execution of the annual event. Special appreciation goes to the students enrolled in the Poly Royal Production class, who take the lead in implementing all aspects of the popular occasion. The class is open to all students — not just those involved in the rodeo program. The production team includes students from all class levels and an array of majors, such as recreation, parks and tourism administration; business administration; animal science and more.

Cal Poly Rodeo Coach Ben Londo — along with Donna Packard in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences dean's office — guide the student team throughout the year in organizing everything related to Poly Royal. While the class only meets twice a week, students put in additional hours outside of class to coordinate sponsors, design programs, prepare Spanos Stadium, and get everyone excited about one of the best weekends of the year.

Six committees are formed, each with a specific focus area, including the banquet, production, sponsorship, special events, facilities and apparel. Each committee has a lead person and two to six committee members. The planning and organizing of the rodeo exemplify Learn by Doing in action.

Kindra Fulton, a third-year student in the Experience Industry Management Department, has been part of the Poly Royal production team for two years. “My role as a lead in the production of Poly Royal has been an amazing opportunity to put my two passions of rodeo and event planning together,” she said. “I learn a lot while doing what I love.”

The team’s work will be incorporated into the planning of the next Poly Royal, making it another memorable event to be Cal Poly proud of.

The Poly Royal Production class is made up of fantastic student leaders who work all year round to produce the Poly Royal Rodeo. Students assist with pre-event operations such as program design, community and sponsor outreach, and creating run of show timelines as well as in-event operations like transforming the Spanos stadium, greeting guests, and coordinating specialty acts. Every aspect of Poly Royal is a new learning opportunity, that these students get to not only be a part of, but also lead.