DRC Newsletter

November 2025 Edition

Accessible versions of this and past Newsletters are available in the past issue section below.

DRC Newsletter, text version is below in past issues section.

Previous Issues


Exciting things are happening at the DRC! Read about our peer mentors, upcoming DRC events, and campus events.

Inspiration and Fun

Meme of the Month

Image of a joke with text ”What did the shocked pumpkin say to the squash? ‘Oh my Gourd’".

Motivation for the Month:

"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”
- Nelson Mandela 

Bronco Access Mentors

The DRC Bronco Access Mentors (BAM) are here and ready to meet you! If you are interested in getting the semester started on the right foot and need support with Time Management, Notetaking Skills, or Study Skills, you should consider meeting with one of our peer mentors. If you're interested in scheduling a meeting, complete the BAM Appointment Request form to provide your availability. 

Beads of Kindness

Join the Bronco Access Mentors this month at their workshop. Come to craft a bracelet, share a moment and celebrate World Kindness Day with a handmade gift from the heart.

  • Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
  • Time: 12:00 - 12:45pm
  • Location: Building 6, Room 207

RSVP on myBAR for Beads of Kindness

BAM Bulletin

Now Playing

Thoughtfully selected music playlists to match your soundtrack for the month.

Best Spots on Campus

Have you ever been in between classes, not knowing where to go or what to do?

Here is a spot where you can study and work on homework in a comfortable outdoor atmosphere:

Bronco Student Center Bldg 35, 2nd Floor

Step into a space where focus meets comfort. This beautifully designed lounge offers a serene atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows, lush greenery, and cozy seating that invites you to get comfortable and be productive. Whether you're doing a solo study or a collaborative one with classmates, the layout mix makes it easy to find your flow.

Social Success Tip

Use good body boundaries - Respecting body boundaries is a key part of building comfortable and respectful social interactions. Everyone has a personal space bubble, and standing too close can make others feel uneasy or even threatened, especially in new or formal settings. A good rule of thumb is to keep about an arm’s length of space between you and the person you’re speaking with, unless the situation calls for more closeness and both people are comfortable with it. Being aware of body language helps create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone involved.

DRC Finals Information

Deadline:

The deadline to submit a test request for finals week is this month! All requests for finals week must be submitted by Monday, November 24 by 11:59pm.

What you need to know:

  • Finals week is December 8-12
  • DRC Finals Week Testing Hours are Monday – Thursday: 8am – 8pm and Friday: 8am – 4pm
  • During finals week all test request must be scheduled at a DRC start time slot of 8am, 12pm or 4pm. Details about the timeslots are below.

DRC Finals Times:

To determine your DRC Final start time, you will need to know the class final start time based on the university schedule.
  • Class Final Start Time: 7:00am to 9:00am, DRC Final Start Time: 8:00am
  • Class Final Start Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm, DRC Final Start Time: 12:00pm
  • Class Final Start Time: 3:00pm to 9:00pm, DRC Final Start Time: 4:00pm for Monday - Thursday and 12pm for Friday
If you need help scheduling your finals, contact us at drctesting@cpp.edu or review the Finals Tutorial.

DRC Events

DRC: Dia de Los Muertos Altar

The Disability Resource Center (DRC) invites you to honor and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed. 

Bring a picture of a loved one or pet you would like to remember and celebrate.

Location: DRC Office (BLDG 9, RM 103)
Dates: October 20 - November 6th
Please pick up your pictures after November 6

Neurodiverse Student Alliance (NDSA) Game Night

Join NDSA for a game night!

Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: Bronco Care Center (BLDG 97, 1st floor)

Complete a Survey for a CPP Student

Impact of Autism on Mental Health of College Students (Survey by CPP Student)
Participate in a 30-45 minute Qualtrics study.
Eligibility to participate:
  • Be 18 years or older
  • Cal Poly Pomona student (any major)
  • No diagnosis of autism is required
Compensation:
  • Sona credits or entry into the raffle for Bronco Bucks
If interested, complete the online survey via Qualtrics.
If you have any questions, contact: Alexandra Pizano, Email: ajpizano@cpp.edu 

Campus Events

Tap-in to Wellness

This campaign is all about encouraging you to stay connected to yourself and to one another. Check in with a friend, join a campus event, or just take a moment to reflect on your mental and physical health. This is your reminder to be present and involved! College can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Wellness Wednesday Events
All events are 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at The Care Center
All events are free and open while supplies last.

Smoothie Night - Date: Nov. 12

"Board games, smoothies, and connection"

For more details check out the Tap-in to Wellness website or follow on Instagram @cpp.tap.in

Anxiety Workshop

Explore: 

  • What anxiety is
  • How to recognize its signs
  • practical strategies for managing it

Date: Tuesday, 11/4/25
Time: 12-1 pm
Location: CAPS
Please register on MyHealthPortal if interested

Anxiety Toolbox Workshop

This 3-week group will focus on increasing participants' understanding of anxiety and its symptoms, and teach skills to recognize and reduce anxiety symptoms in one's daily life.

Offering 1:
  • Fridays, 2-3 pm
  • Dates: 11/7, 11/14, 11/21 
  • (Zoom sessions)
Offering 2:
  • Tuesdays, 12-1 pm
  • Dates: 11/18, 11/25, 12/2
  • (Zoom sessions)

Participants are required to attend all three sessions.
If you are interested in joining one of these groups, please call CAPS at 909-869-3220 and request a screening for Anxiety Toolbox

Dia De Los Muertos Events

Danza Azteca Workshop

  • Date: 11/6/25
  • Time: 4-5:30 pm
  • Location: BLDG 52 RM 100

UHS Movie Night

  • Date: 11/13/25
  • Time: 6-8 pm
  • Location: BLDG 73 MPR

Maker Space

  • Date: 11/3, 11/4, 11/5
  • Time: 11 AM - 3:30 pm
  • Location: CECCHE BLDG 95

Events with Charles Yu

VIP Reception with Charles Yu (Limited Capacity)

Date: 11/13/25

Time: 11:00-12:00 pm

A small gathering with light refreshments and conversation with the author. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with Charles Yu and campus colleagues around creativity, representation, and the power of storytelling.

RSVP Required on myBAR for VIP Reception

Fireside Chat with Charles Yu

Date: 11/13

Time: 12:00-1:00 pm

Join us for an intimate and engaging conversation with Charles Yu about the creative process, navigating Hollywood, and the themes of race, identity, and belonging explored in Interior Chinatown. The program will include audience Q&A.

RSVP Required on myBAR for Fireside Chat

CPP Motor Development Clinic Adapted Fitness Program

We are excited to introduce our Adapted Fitness Program designed for CPP students with various disabilities.

What’s Included?

  • 5 Key Components of Fitness
  • Adapted Sports Activities
  • Collaboration with Kinesiology & Health Promotion students

Starting September 9th

  • Tuesdays | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
  • Tuesdays | 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Location: CPP Motor Development Clinic

Interested? Contact Dr. Mai at mnjara@cpp.edu

Exciting things are happening at the DRC! Read about our peer mentors, upcoming DRC events, and campus events.

Inspiration and Fun

Meme of the Month

Image of a pumpking wilting with text ”My face when its already supposed to be hoodie weather, but its still 90 degrees outside in the Fall".

Motivation for the Month:

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." - Mahatma Ghandi

 

 

Bronco Access Mentors

The DRC Bronco Access Mentors (BAM) are here and ready to meet you! If you are interested in getting the semester started on the right foot and need support with Time Management, Notetaking Skills, or Study Skills, you should consider meeting with one of our peer mentors. If you're interested in scheduling a meeting, complete the BAM Appointment Request form to provide your availability. Check out the BAM Mentors' bios and get to know them!

Meet our Bronco Access Mentor, Aliya!

"Hey, hey! Hey! I'm Aliya Patterson, a Communications major in my senior year as a transfer student. I'm passionate about being someone who will support, motivate, and empower you through all times. I'm here to connect with you and help you as a peer mentor - our meetings will feel like friendly conversations! Some of my interests include music, gaming, matcha, and the TV show Criminal Minds. After finishing school, I aspire to become a Speech Language Pathologist with a pet pug by my side. I look forward to meeting with you!"

Meet our Bronco Access Mentor, Isabella!

"Hi! My name is Isabella Gonzalez, and I am currently in my senior year as a Biology major. I have worked at the DRC since Fall 2022, and this semester I am thrilled to be stepping into a new role as a Bronco Access Mentor! Throughout my time at CPP, I've discovered a passion for supporting others, whether it's through a big gesture or a small moment of encouragement. When I'm not on campus, I like to go to Disneyland, try new foods, and hang out with my friends and family. After graduation, I'm hoping to channel my interests in student support into a career in Higher Education. Looking forward to meeting you!"

BAM Bulletin

Now Playing

Thoughtfully selected music playlists to match your soundtrack for the month.

Best Spots on Campus

Have you ever been in between classes, not knowing where to go or what to do?

Here is a spot where you can study and work on homework in a comfortable outdoor atmosphere:

College of Engineering (Bldg. 9) 2nd Floor

When you’re looking for a peaceful escape between classes, this spot in the engineering building near the marketplace is just what you need. It’s the ideal place to unwind, whether you’re catching up on reading, finishing up some last-minute studying, or simply taking a breather before diving into your next lecture. Whether you're enjoying some solo time or meeting up with friends, this area provides the perfect balance of calm and convenience.

Social Success Tip

Ask follow-up questions - Follow-up questions are a great way to dig deeper into a topic. They help keep the conversation moving forward.
Follow-up questions are questions that extend the conversation. For example, if the topic is movies, you can ask "You mentioned liking ___, what is that about?" Or "Who's your favorite actor?" Remember, you must answer your own questions to avoid the conversation feeling one-sided or transactional.

Meet the DRC

Meet Lissa Rhodes Bilau, Access & Accommodations Analyst

Lissa, a proud CPP alum with a degree in Psychology and now a second-year MPA student, Lissa brings a deep understanding of the student journey to her role. Originally from Liverpool, England, she's traveled to over seven countries, with Ireland standing out as her favorite destination. Lissa is also a mom to five, including one CPP graduate and one current CPP student. Outside of work, Lissa enjoys knitting, tending to her chickens, and dreaming up her next travel adventure. What truly fuels her passion at the DRC is the opportunity to empower students and help them navigate challenges. We're lucky to have Lissa's warmth, creativity, and dedication on our team!

DRC Events

Relax and Create Event with DRC & UHS

Join the DRC & JEDI for Relax & Create! A relaxing and interactive Sensory Wellness Experience event where participants can de-stress through Lego building, play-dough sculpting, essential oils, and coloring in a supportive and calming environment. Portos will be provided!

Date: Oct 16, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Location: Sicomoro Hall MPR (Bldg. 73, Rm. 107)
RSVP on myBAR for Relax and Create

DRC: Dia de Los Muertos Altar

The Disability Resource Center (DRC) invites you to honor and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed. 

Bring a picture of a loved one or pet you would like to remember and celebrate.

Location: DRC Office (BLDG 9, RM 103)
Dates: October 20 - November 6th
Please pick up your pictures after November 6

Study Skills Workshop

Need help with studying? Join us at our study skills event to learn how to effectively maximize your study sessions.

Date: October 28
Time: 12:00 - 12:45 PM
Location: Building 9, Room 201/203

Campus Events

Tap-in to Wellness

This campaign is all about encouraging you to stay connected to yourself and to one another. Check in with a friend, join a campus event, or just take a moment to reflect on your mental and physical health. This is your reminder to be present and involved! College can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Wellness Wednesday Events
All events are 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at The Care Center
All events are free and open while supplies last.

Health Check Hangout - Date: Oct 8

"Free health screenings and wellness tips to keep you on track this semester."

Paint and Sip - Date: Oct 15

"De-stress with painting, mocktails, and mellow vibes. All materials are provided."

Skincare Lab - Date: Oct 22

"Make your own all-natural scrubs and learn about skin health on a student budget."

Fresh Finds - Date: Oct 29

"Celebrate CalFresh Week with free samples, app support, and tips for eating well."

Health Trivia Showdown - Date: Nov 5

"Join us for prizes, snacks, and a health-themed trivia night."

For more details check out the Tap-in to Wellness website or follow on Instagram @cpp.tap.in

 

Cuts & Convos

Free Hairstyling and Haircuts.
Tuesday, Oct 21st from 12-2 pm

Location: Care Center (BLDG 97, 1st floor), RSVP online

CPP Motor Development Clinic Adapted Fitness Program

We are excited to introduce our Adapted Fitness Program designed for CPP students with various disabilities.

What’s Included?

  • 5 Key Components of Fitness
  • Adapted Sports Activities
  • Collaboration with Kinesiology & Health Promotion students

Starting September 9th

  • Tuesdays | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
  • Tuesdays | 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Location: CPP Motor Development Clinic

Interested? Contact Dr. Mai at mnjara@cpp.edu

 

 

It's a new Academic Year and exciting things are happening at the DRC! Read about our peer mentors, upcoming DRC events, and campus events.

Inspiration and Fun

Meme of the Month

Image of Kermit the frog on a couch looking sideways with text “When the slide goes from Syllabus to Lecture chapter 1 on the first day of classes”

Motivation for the Month:

"New month, new intentions, new goals, new love, new light, and new beginnings."
- April Mae Monterrosa

Fun Fact:

"Studies have shown that people with ADHD have higher social intelligence and humor and achieve high levels of social success overall." - Pediatrician Specialty Practices in the article "5 Encouraging Facts About ADHD

Study Tips:

Use the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break) to maintain focus. 

Bronco Access Mentors

The DRC Bronco Access Mentors (BAM) are here and ready to meet you! If you are interested in getting the semester started on the right foot and need support with Time Management, Notetaking Skills, or Study Skills, you should consider meeting with one of our peer mentors. If you're interested in scheduling a meeting, complete the BAM Appointment Request form to provide your availability. Check out the BAM Mentors' bios and get to know them!

Meet our Bronco Access Mentor, Aliya!

"Hey, hey! Hey! I'm Aliya Patterson, a Communications major in my senior year as a transfer student. I'm passionate about being someone who will support, motivate, and empower you through all times. I'm here to connect with you and help you as a peer mentor - our meetings will feel like friendly conversations! Some of my interests include music, gaming, matcha, and the TV show Criminal Minds. After finishing school, I aspire to become a Speech Language Pathologist with a pet pug by my side. I look forward to meeting with you!"

Meet our Bronco Access Mentor, Isabella!

"Hi! My name is Isabella Gonzalez, and I am currently in my senior year as a Biology major. I have worked at the DRC since Fall 2022, and this semester I am thrilled to be stepping into a new role as a Bronco Access Mentor! Throughout my time at CPP, I've discovered a passion for supporting others, whether it's through a big gesture or a small moment of encouragement. When I'm not on campus, I like to go to Disneyland, try new foods, and hang out with my friends and family. After graduation, I'm hoping to channel my interests in student support into a career in Higher Education. Looking forward to meeting you!"

BAM Bulletin

College Soundtrack

Hey! Need some tunes for those long hours on campus? Here are curated playlists that blend diverse genres and vibes. From upbeat to relaxation to happy to background music, and more. Take a listen! The College Soundtrack Playlist

Best Spots on Campus

Have you ever been in between classes, not knowing where to go or what to do?

Here is a spot where you can study and work on homework in a comfortable outdoor atmosphere:

Outside of BLDG 7

The modern, industrial-style architecture, with exposed elements, lends it a contemporary campus vibe, while the addition of greenery adds a welcoming touch. You'll find comfortable seating areas with tables and chairs scattered throughout, as well as some cozy lounge furniture. The abundant natural light and open layout make it an ideal spot for both individual study sessions and small group work.

Social Success Tip

Don't be an Interviewer - Don’t ask questions without sharing anything about yourself. You can seem tired and impersonal.

When you only ask questions but don’t offer any personal input, it can make the conversation feel one-sided or transactional. Others may interpret it as you being tired, uninterested, or impersonal—almost like you’re interviewing them instead of engaging with them. By sharing small details about your own experiences, thoughts, or feelings in return, you create more balance, warmth, and authenticity in the interaction. This helps the other person feel like they’re talking with you, not just answering to you.

Social Success Mentoring Series

The Social Success Mentoring Series is back! Students will learn the essential skills to build and maintain meaningful connections through a five-week workshop. The application process begins on September 8 and closes on September 16. The workshop dates are listed below. If you are interested, please complete the application form before the closing date and then await contact from the DRC.

Workshop topics:

  • Trade Information and Start Conversations
  • Trade Information and Maintain Conversations
  • Find a Source of Friends
  • Navigate Electronic Communication
  • Enter Group Conversations

Time Commitment:

  • Workshop dates are Fridays: September 26, October 10 & 24, November 7 & 21
  • Fridays from 1:00-2:30 pm
  • Students must comment to attending all session dates above for the full 1.5 hour workshop

Campus Events

Tap-in to Wellness

This campaign is all about encouraging you to stay connected to yourself and to one another. Check in with a friend, join a campus event, or just take a moment to reflect on your mental and physical health. This is your reminder to be present and involved! College can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Wellness Wednesday Events
All events are 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. at The Care Center
All events are free and open while supplies last.

Tacos and Talk - Date: Sept. 10
"Come for tacos, stay for conversations about how the Care Center can support you."
Save a Life - Date: Sept. 17
"Learn hands-on CPR and AED skills, because you never know when it'll matter."
Vision Vibes - Sept. 24
"Create a visual board for your goals, dreams and affirmations in a chill environment."
Shop Talk - Date: Oct 1
"Real conversations on topics like identity, masculinity and wellbeing in a safe space."

For more details check out the Tap-in to Wellness website or follow on Instagram @cpp.tap.in

Wellness Fest

Date: Sept. 24
Time: 11:00-1:30 pm
Location: University Quad
Join us for activities, workshops, and rejuvenating experiences designed to nourish the mind, body and spirit:

  • Free food
  • Massages
  • Tarot card reading
  • And more!

Details on Tap-In to Wellness website

Cuts & Convos

Free Hairstyling and Haircuts.
Dates:

  • Tuesday, Sept 9th from 12-2 pm
  • Wednesday, Oct 1st from 4-6 pm
  • Tuesday, Oct 21st from 12-2 pm

Location: Care Center (BLDG 97, 1st floor), RSVP online

Undocumented Students Services events

This October, we are honoring Undocumented Student Month of Action with a series of events that celebrate identity, resilience, and community.

Wings of Identity - Date: Oct 8

"Celebrate identity, resilience, and transformation with us during Undocumented Student Month and National Coming Out Day! This art-focused event invites students to express their stories, pride, and power through creativity and community."
Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Building 26, Room 101

Wings of Identity on myBAR

Career Close Up - Date: Oct 14

"Build your professional identity with us!

Includes: 

  • Free professional headshots
  • Resume reviews & elevator pitch coaching
  • Portfolio giveaway (first 10 students)
  • Coffee & snacks corner

Time: 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Location: Rainbow Weaver

Important: RSVP on MyBar required.

Halloween Movie Week - Date: Oct 27 - 31

"Join us for cozy vibes, scary classics, and Halloween favorites all week long!

Time: All day
Halloween Movie Week - myBAR

Masquerade: A Halloween Art Social - Date: Oct 29

"Design your own custom mask and unleash your creativity! Supplies provided — come connect, create, and celebrate identity this spooky season.
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Location: Bldg. 26, Rm 101
Masquerade a Halloween Art Social - myBAR

Instagram: @CPP_undocubroncos
For questions, feel free to reach out at Dream@cpp.edu

CPP Motor Development Clinic Adapted Fitness Program

We are excited to introduce our Adapted Fitness Program designed for CPP students with various disabilities.

What’s Included?

  • 5 Key Components of Fitness
  • Adapted Sports Activities
  • Collaboration with Kinesiology & Health Promotion students

Starting September 9th

  • Tuesdays | 10:00 – 11:00 AM
  • Tuesdays | 5:00 – 6:00 PM

Location: CPP Motor Development Clinic

Interested? Contact Dr. Mai at mnjara@cpp.edu

 

Off-campus Announcements

Capital Fellows Program

The Capital Fellows Programs, administered by the Center for California Studies at Sacramento State, offer an outstanding opportunity for college graduates to launch their careers and engage in public service. All majors are welcome to apply.

Applicants may apply to one or more programs that align with their interests and qualifications. Recent graduates, postgraduate, and mid-career applicants are welcome to apply.

Programs include:

  • Executive Fellowship Program
  • Jesse M. Unruh Assembly Fellowship Program
  • Judicial Fellowship Program
  • Senate Fellowship Program

Now accepting applications for the 2026-27 cohort. 
Applications must be submitted by Monday, December 8, 2025 at 11:59 PM PST.

Additional information available from Sac State.

Breast Health Awareness Month - Low-Cost $50 Mammograms

"Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) is offering $50 screening mammograms with no physician order or proof of insurance during the month of October 2025."

Date: Oct 1 - Oct 31
Location: On website
For more information, visit the Pomona Valley website.