The College of Business Administration at Cal Poly Pomona is honored to welcome Cristina (Cris) Wilbur (’98, Accounting) as its 2025 Commencement Speaker.
Wilbur currently serves as the Global Chief People Officer and sits on the Corporate Executive Committee at F. Hoffmann-La Roche (Roche), a global leader in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics based in Basel, Switzerland.
Drawing from a distinguished career spanning 30 years, including over two decades at Roche, Wilbur will share insights and advice for the graduating class of 2025.
Wilbur has spent the greater part of two decades rising through the leadership ranks at Roche, holding various regional and global roles before being appointed as Chief People Officer in 2016. In this role, she helps shape the company’s talent and organizational strategy, while also overseeing initiatives related to corporate philanthropy, diversity, and executive services. Wilbur also works closely with the Board of Directors to support Roche’s mission and values on a global scale.
As a change agent who’s led successful large-scale business transformations, she often says, “it’s essential to fall in love with the problem before falling in love with a solution.” She is an advocate of curiosity, mindfulness and embracing capacity, coupled with immense focus and drive.
“Cris Wilbur embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Bronco. Her story is one that will inspire our graduates to lead with purpose, and to see challenges not as roadblocks, but as invitations to innovate,” said Sandeep Krishnamurthy, dean of the College of Business Administration and Singelyn Graduate School of Business. “We are thrilled to welcome her as our distinguished commencement speaker.”
“Cal Poly holds a very special place in my heart. I am honored to be back to my alma mater that has helped shape me in so many incredible ways,” said Wilbur.
For more information about CPP Commencement, click here.