Passing of Dr. Lea Dopson

April 28, 2022

Dear Cal Poly Pomona Community,

We are deeply saddened to share news of the sudden passing of Dr. Lea R. Dopson, dean of The Collins College of Hospitality Management.

A beloved friend and colleague, Lea held an indefatigable passion for her work as an educator, scholar and administrator. She cared truly and deeply for the lifechanging work of The Collins College, and her passing leaves behind a legacy of service found the world over. We join you in grieving her passing and offer our deepest condolences to all those who knew her.

We will find a fitting time and manner to memorialize Lea’s life and contributions together. We ask the campus to offer grace and continue to focus on providing care, compassion and flexibility for each other as we grieve this loss as a Cal Poly Pomona family.

We strongly urge those who need support to utilize campus resources. Students may reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 909-869-3220. Faculty and staff can call 1-800-367-7474 (CPPLifeMatters) or visit https://www.cpp.edu/~employee-assist.

This is a sad day for Cal Poly Pomona, and we stand by you in this time of grief. May we all find peace and solace in our memories of Lea.

Sincerely,

Soraya M. Coley, Ph.D.
President

Jennifer L. Brown, Ph.D.
Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs