Student Health Center Celebrates 75 Years
What started as a two-room setup for football players has become one of Cal Poly Pomona’s most essential resources — the Student Health Center, which celebrated 75 years in operation this fall.
In that time, the center grew alongside the university, evolving from a small, makeshift center into a modern health facility offering everything from digital x-rays to an on-site pharmacy.
The start of a health center at CPP was spearheaded in 1950, when the formation of a football team at the Voorhis campus prompted the university to require readily available medical staff. The Voorhis center consisted of only two rooms designated for laboratory facilities and a whirlpool. As enrollment grew to 750 male students in 1956, the mandatory health fee of $3.00 per quarter was established for medicine, supplies, and to pay the on-campus doctor.
In 1957, the university moved entirely to its current location, the Kellogg campus, where the center took up residence in a small, four-room caretaker house on the hill where the Don B. Huntley College of Agriculture stands today.
Through the remainder of the 1950’s, consistent enrollment growth meant a more permanent, larger facility was necessary. After months of planning and budget preparation, the construction of the new $245,704 Student Health Services Building began and in fall of 1960, the center was officially open.
In the years since, the center has undergone numerous cosmetic and physical changes, including the addition of offices and equipment, giving enrolled students the opportunity to have high-quality medical care close to the classroom.
“Having a full-service health facility right on campus removes barriers for students. When care is convenient, accessible and designed around their needs, they’re more likely to seek help early, stay healthy and focus on their academic success,” said Kevin Malone, associate director for Student Health Services.
Most services offered by the center today are covered by the student health fee, which is included in a student’s tuition payments. These include unlimited appointments, digital x-rays, minor surgical procedures, STI/STD testing and vaccines — all with licensed and board-certified clinicians, nurses and physician assistants. Today, the center supports more than 12,000 medical visits each year.
Beyond assisting students with vaccines, medications, lab tests and health screenings, the center serves a secondary purpose — empowering college students to be advocates for their own health and well-being.
“A big part of our mission is teaching students how to take ownership of their health,” said Malone.
“College is often the first time they’re managing their care independently, so we focus on giving them the skills, confidence and guidance they need to navigate the health system, advocate for themselves and build lifelong habits that support their well-being.”
Now the center is looking ahead.
“The next 75 years we’re committed to meeting the needs of future generations. That means expanding our services, modernizing our technology, and continuing to create a welcoming, student-centered space where every student feels supported,” said Malone.
A celebration open house event is planned for students, faculty and staff to stop by the center and learn more about current resources and its history. Details will be shared with the campus community soon.
For more information about the Health Center, contact Kevin Malone at klmalone@cpp.edu.
