The history and evolution of Cal Poly Pomona's colors and mascots

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Cal Poly Pomona, also known as California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, is a well-known higher education institution located in Pomona, California. Established in 1938, it is a public university that offers a wide range of degree programs to its students. One notable aspect of Cal Poly Pomona is its vibrant and diverse campus community. The university's official colors are green and gold, which are prominently featured in various aspects of campus life. These colors symbolize the university's commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence. In addition to its colors, Cal Poly Pomona also has a mascot that represents its spirit and identity.


You will find the new logo across the campus, on banners and in the bookstore, and proudly worn by members of the university community.

They explored the university s rich history, its mission, its vital role in the region, and its commitment to helping first-generation students achieve career success. Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley speaks during during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018.

Cal poly pomona colros and mascit

In addition to its colors, Cal Poly Pomona also has a mascot that represents its spirit and identity. The university's mascot is known as Billy Bronco, a spirited and enthusiastic character that brings energy and excitement to campus events. Billy Bronco is often seen at athletic games, pep rallies, and other campus activities, promoting school spirit and creating a sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.

Cal poly pomona colros and mascit

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley speaks during during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

By Liset Márquez | [email protected] | Inland Valley Daily Bulletin PUBLISHED: August 20, 2018 at 3:32 p.m. | UPDATED: January 30, 2019 at 10:55 a.m.

Cal Poly Pomona is ready to start its 80th year, and for much of its history the university has had a bit of an identity clash, especially given a campus with a similarly sounding name on the Central Coast.

Which is why it’s marking the milestone with a branding initiative.

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley speaks during during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley unveils a new university seal during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley unveils a new university seal during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley unveils a new university logo during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley unveils a new university seal during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year at Cal Poly Pomona in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley speaks during during the Fall Conference to kick off the 2018-19 school year in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Cal Poly Pomona President Soraya Coley prepares to address her annual convocation address to kick off the 2018-19 school year at Cal Poly Pomona in Pomona on Monday, August 20, 2018. (Photo by Watchara Phomicinda, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

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Cal Poly President Soraya M. Coley celebrated the conversion from the quarter system to semesters on Monday by unveiling a sleek new logo and university seal.

The new design also introduces a new color to the Green and Gold family: blue. Coley said the new color not only adds boldness, it’s meant to help distinguish it from the other California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, which was founded 117 years ago.

“We, of course, revere our shared history with our partners in San Luis Obispo, but we are our institution, with our own trajectory and our own distinct character,” said Coley during her annual convocation address to faculty and staff at the Kellogg Gymnasium, which kicks off the 2018-19 school year.

It has been more than 20 years since Cal Poly has updated its logo. The new design drops the iconic image of a Bronco in favor of an octagon shape, predominantly blue with green and gold accents on the right side resembling a symbol an arrow.

The shape, she said, not only represents the eight colleges but the eight elements of an inclusive polytechnic university, while the arrow signifies the university “is on the move, constantly achieving great things.”

She also unveiled the new university seal which is used on diplomas, official documents, as well as podiums. The unveiling was literal as Coley pulled green fabric draped across her podium to reveal the seal.

It features an Arabian horse in the foreground and behind it horse stables, a nod to the university’s past; palm trees, a symbol of Southern California; and, as the backdrop, the San Gabriel Mountains, symbolizing “our connections to nature and recreation as well as our roots in Southern California.”

The bottom of the logo includes the three words – creativity, discovery and innovation, which Coley said embodies the Cal Poly’s goal of teaching, research, scholarly and creative work.

“No other university seal in the country could look like this – it tells our story – and it is uniquely Cal Poly Pomona,” she said.

Also new is the Bronco motto. Where once it was “application of knowledge,” it’s now, “I’m ready.”

“It unequivocally and boldly states our predisposition and mindset to addressing the opportunities and the challenges: ‘I’m ready,’” Coley said.

Cal poly pomona colros and mascit

The colors and mascot of Cal Poly Pomona not only add to the university's visual identity but also create a sense of unity among the campus community. They serve as symbols of pride, representing the shared values and goals of the university and its constituents. Overall, Cal Poly Pomona's colors and mascot play an important role in fostering school spirit, creating a sense of belonging, and promoting a positive and inclusive campus environment. They are an integral part of the university's rich history and traditions, helping to build a strong sense of identity and pride among the Cal Poly Pomona community..

Reviews for "The role of colors and mascots in promoting school spirit at Cal Poly Pomona"

1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with the colors and mascot at Cal Poly Pomona. The colors are just so bland and uninteresting. I feel like they could have chosen something more vibrant and eye-catching. As for the mascot, it's just not memorable at all. It doesn't have that unique factor that sets it apart from other university mascots. Overall, I was unimpressed with the branding and visual representation of Cal Poly Pomona.
2. John - 1 star - I absolutely despise the colors and mascot of Cal Poly Pomona. The colors are so dull and lack any excitement. They don't make me feel proud or excited to be associated with the university. The mascot is even worse. It's just a horse, nothing interesting or unique about it. I think Cal Poly Pomona really missed the mark when it comes to their colors and mascot. It's just very uninspiring.
3. Emily - 2 stars - The colors and mascot at Cal Poly Pomona are just forgettable. I can't even remember what they are without looking it up. They don't leave any lasting impression or make me feel connected to the university. I think they could have chosen something more vibrant and memorable. Overall, I'm not a fan of the colors and mascot at Cal Poly Pomona. They just don't do anything for me.

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