Each year, Cal Poly Pomona celebrates a select group of graduating students with the Julian A. McPhee Honor Award for Student Excellence, one of the university’s highest honors. Named after the university’s founding president, this prestigious award recognizes students who exemplify academic achievement, leadership in campus life, and a deep commitment to community engagement.
For the College of Business Administration, two outstanding students from the Class of 2025 have earned this distinguished honor: Yesenia Bugarin and Jade Alvarez. Both graduating with a flawless 4.0 GPA, they stand as remarkable examples of Bronco excellence—balancing rigorous academics with meaningful involvement and personal growth.
Throughout her academic journey, Yesenia Bugarin (’25 international business and marketing) embraced both global exploration and local leadership
She was an active member of the Latino Business Student Association and the American Marketing Association, gaining valuable networking experiences and professional insights across industries. She also participated in a study abroad program in South Korea, where she studied culture and business practices under the guidance of Dr. Anthony Kim.
Among her most memorable moments was stepping onto the court at an NBA game during an LBSA event—an experience that exemplifies her drive to make the most of every opportunity.
Following graduation, Yesenia will begin a community outreach internship with the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District. Before that, she plans to travel to Mexico to spend time with her family and recharge after a remarkable undergraduate career.
Her commitment to academic excellence, cultural awareness, and service makes Yesenia a shining example of CBA excellence.
Jade Alvarez’s (’25 accounting) journey at Cal Poly Pomona began during a campus tour with her sister, a proud CPP alumna. While exploring the university grounds, she stepped into Building 164 and thought to herself, “I could see myself here.”
She chose accounting as her major, drawn to the human stories behind every transaction and inspired by a tax law lecture with Professor Sharyn Fisk that revealed how even historical castles can find their way into tax deductions.
Throughout her time at CPP, Jade thrived under the mentorship of exceptional faculty. Drs. Fan and Oakley helped shape her study habits; Professor Lee inspired her to stay organized (even her downloads folder reflects it); and after taking Professor Tomkoria’s managerial finance course, her HP 12c calculator has become a daily tool.
She leaves Cal Poly Pomona as a proud alumna and an example of how focus, curiosity, and a passion for people can transform a college experience.