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Humboldt State University may become the state’s third polytechnic university (and the only one in Northern California) after the California

State University system asked the school to undertake a self-study toward becoming a designated polytechnic university.

Polytechnic institutions usually feature hands-on and career-focused programs, an emphasis in Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) studies, applied science programs and a strong liberal arts foundation.

Cal Poly Pomona and Cal Poly San Luis

Obispo are currently the only polytechnic universities in the CSU system.

If HSU becomes a polytechnic university, it would “better position HSU to meet specific workforce needs on the

North Coast and statewide, and it would significantly raise HSU’s profile among prospective students and grant-funding organizations.”

According to a release, the request for the survey came in a recent letter from

CSU Chancellor Timothy White.

“Humboldt State University is a vital institution on the North Coast and for

California. The campus currently has many distinct strengths in the sciences, with a special capacity for matters pertaining to forestry, oceanography, energy, and agriculture,” White said in his letter.

In a letter to the campus community, HSU President Tom Jackson Jr. said that he was excited about the opportunity.

“This is our moment. First, let’s allow ourselves to imagine, dream, and consider Humboldt as a polytechnic. What are the possibilities for this region and future students? What are the possibilities for new grants and research,” Jackson wrote.

HSU’s announcement drew praise from a host of North Coast o ocials.

“HSU already has the third highest percentage of students in the entire CSU system enrolled in STEM programs (science, technology, engineering and math), behind the other two polytechnic schools — Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona,” said North Coast state Sen. Mike McGuire in a statement. “We are thrilled at this prospect and look forward to the launch of the feasibility study this coming spring.”

North Coast Rep. Jared Hu man, meanwhile, said becoming the state’s third polytechnic university would be “an exciting way forward” for the university, which

Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office deputy Tristan Smith climbed down a 50-foot ravine in McKinleyville’s Hiller Park to retrieve Kari, a missing 2-year-old hound, and reunite the wayward pup with her owner, Berti. POSTED 11.24.20 Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office

he noted is facing “unique challenges due to COVID and changing conditions for higher education.” Third District Humboldt County Supervisor Mike Wilson deemed the move a “natural fit.”

“To me, it’s a recognition of the important role this institution continues to play in our understanding of natural systems, our impacts on the planet and the quest for solutions to make all communities more resilient,” he said in a statement.

— Iridian Casarez POSTED 11.24.20 Read the full story online.

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