Dr. Cordelia Ontiveros ('78, Chemical Engineering)

Dr. Cordelia Ontiveros

Associate Dean for Academic Programs & Student Services, Cal Poly Pomona, College of Engineering

BS Chemical Engineering, Cal Poly Pomona, 1978

MA Chemical Engineering, Princeton University, 1980

PhD Chemical Engineering, Princeton University, 1983

Dr. Cordelia Ontiveros’ parents were her biggest source of support and inspiration. The daughter of an engineer and a registered nurse, Cordelia came to Cal Poly Pomona to study chemical engineering. Cordelia went on to receive a master’s degree and a PhD in chemical engineering from Princeton University. In addition, she attended the Harvard University Management Development Program.

Her career has included work in the private sector, at NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center and in academia. Within the California State University, Cordelia has held positions as professor, department chair, associate vice president for faculty affairs and senior director for academic human resources. Today, she is associate dean for academic programs & student services.

Cordelia is an accomplished dancer who has performed and competed in flamenco, west coast swing, ballroom and a variety of folk dances at venues such as Epcot Center, Orange County Performing Arts Center and the U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships.

“Accept opportunities even when they are outside of your comfort zone, such as moving out of the area,” Cordelia advises engineering students. “You will meet so many interesting people and have great experiences.”