Celebrating Support: Broncos Lift Up Students and Pave Their Path Forward
Alumnus Pawan Tomkoria has carried a passion for education throughout his life. From earning his master’s degree at Cal Poly Pomona to teaching at Cal State Fullerton, he has stayed rooted in the classroom. Today, he serves as a finance professor and faculty advisor at CPP, as well as supporting the Tomkoria Family Scholarships in the College of Business Administration.
“I am passionate about education. I think it is because of education that humanity has moved forward,” Tomkoria said. “The reason why I am involved with Cal Poly Pomona is trying to make sure that every student can achieve their goal through education and every student can afford an education, and you don’t have to be wealthy to get a great education.”
Cal Poly Pomona recently recognized the Tomkoria family and other donors for their commitment and dedication to the university at the fourth annual Celebration of Support reception in the University Plaza.
A Celebration of Support
At the reception on March 11, University Advancement Vice President Frances Teves thanked donors for their continued support and recognized five new members of the Founders’ Society (cumulative gifts of $250,000 and more), the Kellogg Voorhis Legacy Society (planned gifts), and the President’s Circle ($2,500 or more annually).
“This celebration is about impact. Every gift represents a belief in our students and in what they’re capable of achieving,” Teves said. “Our community of supporters are helping remove barriers, expand opportunity and ensure that every Bronco has the support they need to learn, grow and move forward with confidence.”
Among those that attended the event were alumni and supporters from all eight colleges looking to make an impact on future generations, including Larry and Jo Shupnick, Russell “Russ” and Judy Bendel, History Professor Emeritus James Kamusikiri and Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation.
The Impact of Giving
Also attending the event was Brandon Oceguera, a senior studying hospitality management at The Collins College of Hospitality Management. He was one of the recipients of the 2025-26 President’s Scholars awards, which recognizes students who excel academically and lead with integrity. During the program, Oceguera shared how much the $3,500 scholarship means to him.
“Being selected made me happy because it showed that someone believed in me,” Oceguera said. “I hope to give back to the next generation and be an example of the impact these efforts have.”
Oceguera is a first-generation college student who is active in student clubs and volunteering. While working at a country club as a high school student, he discovered how much he enjoyed the hospitality industry and his manager, a CPP alumnus, encouraged him to make the next move, and the rest was history.
To Oceguera, Cal Poly Pomona is a home away from home. “It means heart, because Cal Poly Pomona is the heart of my education. I came to CPP not knowing anything and found so many resources, friends and mentors who gave me a new life.”
Your Support Makes a Difference
Cal Poly Pomona’s become by doing philosophy is supported by the philanthropy of thousands of donors, who help fund student scholarships, faculty creative and scholarly work, labs and facilities, educational experiences, student support resources and more.
To learn more about supporting Cal Poly Pomona, visit the Giving website.