2025 in Review: CSULB’s top stories of the year
With the end of 2025 approaching, we reflect on the accomplishments and memorable moments that defined Cal State Ƶ this year. From inspiring student successes to national rankings, this year’s stories remind us of the power and resilience of the Beach spirit.
Wall Street Journal ranking places Ƶin the top 50 of U.S. institutions
Ƶjoined the top 50 on the Wall Street Journal and College Pulse’s 2026 “Best Colleges in America” list. This ranking focuses on how well colleges and universities prepare students for financial success as well as other factors.
ƵPow Wow brings Native American communities together
The 52nd ƵPow Wow had a new location this year at the intramural rugby and soccer fields on lower campus. Dancers, singers, vendors and observers gathered in celebration, prayer and unity.
Richard Carpenter returns to The Beach, reminisces about where it all started
Richard Carpenter, Beach alumnus and part of the Grammy-award winning duo The Carpenters, is well known for his successful musical career. Ahead of his campus return, he shared some of his favorite memories in a special Q&A.
Twin brothers-turned-teachers prove power of Ƶ College Promise
With help from the Ƶ College Promise, twins Markel and Martel Cooper ‘19 earned degrees in kinesiology and graduated with honors. Today, they are back at The Beach pursuing their master’s degrees.
‘Happiest chef on Earth': How a Ƶgrad is shaping Disneyland's food and sustainability efforts
Toby Hollis '05 credits Ƶfor transforming him from a theme park line cook to a chef who understands how to prepare food and run a kitchen. Today, he creates unforgettable, magical experiences for Disneyland guests.
Meet the team who brought the championship back to CSULB's 'Volleyball Nation'
After overcoming obstacles, the Ƶ State's Men's Volleyball team won the 2025 National Championship and returned for campus and local celebrations. This was their third national championship in the last seven seasons.
Ƶto introduce a Doctor of Public Health degree in fall 2025
The university announced its Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree, which launched in fall 2025. This is the fifth doctoral program at The Beach.
CSULB's corpse flower, known as Phil, raises a stink during its third bloom
Corpse flower Phil bloomed for the third time on June 18. When a corpse flower blooms, it emits the smell of decaying flesh. Phil's name comes from ƵProfessor Emeritus Philip Baker.
Ranked No. 3 in aerospace and fueled by new grant, Ƶequips engineers for space race
For decades, Ƶengineering grads have powered Ƶ’s aerospace rise. With the College of Engineering's $15 million redesign, students will work with industry-grade tools and receive training for high-demand roles.
5 remarkable 'classrooms' you might not know exist at CSULB
From a Hollywood-style Foley studio to rooftop stargazing, five can't-miss "classrooms" make learning unforgettable for students at The Beach.
