Provost Communication, Monday, December 22, 2025

Hello everyone, and happy Monday. Thank you to everyone who participated in the Commencement ceremonies this past Friday. They were truly wonderful. I am so proud of our graduates and it was incredible to celebrate that special time with each of you. Check out the great photos of the ceremonies here.

Well Done!

I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the third BIPOC Kickback Event that was held last Monday, December 15, 2025. ODEI offered this event in partnership with the Dean of Students office, Umoja Center, and Equity Arcata. More than 80 people participated and community business owners donated events for the raffle. Travis Richards, the Umoja Center academic advisor, served as the emcee for the event. There was a great spirit of solidarity and community at the event.

Interim Provost Announcement

I am hopeful that you all saw the Interim Provost Announcement last week that Dean Shawna Young, current Dean of the College of Professional Studies (CPS) and the College of Extension (CEE), will assume the role of Interim Provost upon my transition to the Presidency at Cabrillo College. Additionally, Justus Ortega, Associate Dean of CPS, will assume the role of Interim Dean of the college and Sei Hee Hwang, Interim Associate Dean of CEE, will become the Interim Dean. I have every confidence in Shawna, Justus, and Sei Hee. I am extremely excited about this plan and believe Shawna’s leadership, in partnership with the broader Academic Affairs leadership team, and each of you, will allow the division to continue to thrive during transition.  

You’re Invited: Provost Office Transition Open House Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 11:30am-1:30pm 

The Provost’s Office will be hosting a transition open house in our office (Siemens Hall, suite 216) to welcome Shawna into the Interim Provost role, and to give me a chance to say goodbye in a fun and informal way. Come on by for lunch and some Cal Poly Humboldt swag (while supplies last). We promise, it will be a lot of fun!

And finally, I wanted to take a moment to thank each of you for all that you have contributed to the success of academic affairs, the university, our students, and our community. 

Have a great winter break.

Sincerely,

Jenn Capps