Cal Poly Humboldt Executive and Leadership Team

Kate Shea, the Chief Operating Officer, Office of Initiatives at Cal Poly Humboldt, architects the operational frameworks for new academic programs and institutional growth projects. The Chief Operating Officer, Office of Initiatives manages the allocation of resources for cross-departmental ventures, ensuring that every initiative supports the core mission of teacher education. By overseeing regional expansion efforts, Shea drives the implementation of programs that connect the university with broader educational networks. This leadership role involves constant coordination with the finance and academic teams to ensure project viability and long-term sustainability. Kate Shea executes complex operational strategies that enhance the university's market position. Through the rigorous assessment of program performance, the Chief Operating Officer, Office of Initiatives identifies opportunities for improvement and innovation. Shea maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that all initiatives align with the strategic vision of the university while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and academic success.

Jessica Etter, the Events, Engagement & Office Coordinator & President, Office of at Cal Poly Humboldt, manages the logistical execution of institutional events and community engagement programs. The Events, Engagement & Office Coordinator & President, Office of directs the outreach efforts that connect the university with prospective students and educational partners. By overseeing the coordination of campus-wide initiatives, Etter ensures that all public-facing activities reflect the values of the institution. This role involves constant collaboration with administrative staff to maintain the efficiency of the president's office. Jessica Etter drives engagement strategies that strengthen the university's presence within the regional education sector. Through the management of complex event schedules, the Events, Engagement & Office Coordinator & President, Office of supports the university's mission of fostering a vibrant academic community. Etter executes operational tasks that facilitate smooth communication between the leadership team and the broader public, ensuring that institutional goals remain visible and accessible to all stakeholders.

Jimmy Gorospe, the President at Cal Poly Humboldt, provides the overarching strategic vision and leadership for the entire university. The President directs the long-term academic and financial planning required to maintain the institution's status as a leader in teacher education. By overseeing the executive team, Gorospe ensures that all departments remain aligned with the core mission of providing high-quality undergraduate programs. This leadership role involves constant engagement with the board, faculty, and external partners to advance the university's reputation. Jimmy Gorospe drives initiatives that promote student success and institutional growth. Through the implementation of comprehensive policies, the President fosters an environment of academic rigor and community service. Gorospe manages the university's relationships with regional stakeholders, ensuring that the institution continues to meet the evolving needs of the education sector. The President executes critical decisions that shape the future of the university, maintaining a focus on excellence and long-term sustainability.

Bethany Rizzardi, the Chief Information Officer at Cal Poly Humboldt, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the university. The Chief Information Officer manages complex data systems, cybersecurity protocols, and academic software platforms essential for modern teacher education. By overseeing North American network operations, Rizzardi ensures seamless connectivity for faculty and students across the campus. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with academic departments to integrate innovative learning tools into the curriculum. Bethany Rizzardi drives the digital transformation strategy, prioritizing scalable solutions that enhance administrative efficiency and research capabilities. Through the implementation of robust cloud-based services, the Chief Information Officer maintains the integrity of institutional data. Rizzardi optimizes technical resources to support the long-term educational goals of the university, ensuring that all digital assets align with the broader mission of providing high-quality undergraduate programs in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Denice Helwig, the Chief of Staff at Cal Poly Humboldt, coordinates executive communications and manages the daily operations of the president's office. The Chief of Staff facilitates alignment between senior leadership and various academic departments to ensure institutional goals remain on track. By overseeing internal policy development, Helwig streamlines administrative workflows and improves organizational transparency. This role requires constant interaction with the board and external stakeholders to represent the university's interests effectively. Denice Helwig drives strategic planning initiatives that support the growth of teacher education programs. Through the management of high-level projects, the Chief of Staff ensures that operational resources meet the needs of the faculty and student body. Helwig maintains a focus on institutional stability, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes academic excellence. The Chief of Staff executes critical administrative functions that allow the university to maintain its reputation as a premier institution for undergraduate learning and professional development.