The Huntley College of Agriculture at Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ announced its annual awards for students, faculty, and staff.
Julian A. McPhee Award Recipients
Food science and technology major Camille McCurry and nutrition major Wenshin Tsao were named co-recipients of the Julian A. McPhee Award as valedictorians of the Class of 2025.
McCurry plans to work in industry before pursuing a doctorate in food science. Tsao will pursue a master’s degree at Cal State San Bernardino toward becoming a registered dietitian. Both were honored at the Huntley College of Agriculture’s commencement ceremony on May 16.
John E. Andrews Student Leaders of the Year
Alicia Valle and Hadis Rezaei were named the John E. Andrews Student Leaders of the Year.
An apparel merchandising and management student, Valle was president of the AATCC SoCal Broncos Club, a student chapter of the AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists) industry professional association. In that capacity, she led the club in hosting an industry speaker, participating in the Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Pumpkin Fest, and recruiting new club members.
In addition, she has served as a college Peer Advisor, a student assistant during the LA County Fair, and an instructional student assistant for her department.
“Alicia is very patient, resilient, and collaborative to achieve optimal outcomes that can benefit the department and campus community with inclusive excellence approaches,” one person wrote in nominating Valle.
Rezaei, who earned her master’s degree in agriculture, nutrition and food science subplan, was nominated for her work teaching an undergraduate agricultural science course, serving as a teaching assistant, and as research associate and manager on a clinical trial.
She was accepted into a dietetic internship program and plans to become a dietitian, according to peers who nominated Rezaei.
“She is an amazing mentor. You can expect her to go above and beyond to make an impact in any organization she is involved in,” one wrote.
Staff of the Year Award
Patty Mutz, the long-time administrative support coordinator for the Department of Apparel Merchandising & Management, was chosen for the Staff of the Year Award.
Mutz was praised for thoroughly performing her duties with excellence for more than 15 years with the department. Besides handling administrative tasks, she has coordinated events, given visitors tours of the department, and helped procure equipment and resources to aid student learning.
“She has shown motherly compassion for students and fellow workers,” one person wrote. “She visits co-works and students when they are hospitalized or incapacitated at home due illnesses or terrible accidents.”
Staff Advisor of the Year
Henry Flores, a retention and graduation specialist in the Student Success Office, was named as the Staff Advisor of the Year.
In his role, Flores advises students in the apparel merchandising and management and agribusiness and food industry management majors. In addition, he assists students who are experiencing academic difficulties.
"Henry is very patient and well-knowledgeable on university policies. He is a great resource for any staff or student that is needing assistance or questions answered,” one person wrote. “He makes students feel comfortable enough to share vulnerable information to receive the support they need.”
Faculty Advisor of the Year
Assistant Professor Fatheema Subhan of the Department of Nutrition & Food Science was named Faculty Advisor of the Year.
She was singled out as an exceptionally effective student advisor who has deep knowledge, is approachable, and is genuinely committed to student success. Subhan also provides students guidance on careers, extracurricular and professional development activities, and club events.
“She has assisted in organizing nutrition workshops and community outreach programs, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom,” one person wrote. “Her dedication to student growth extends far beyond academics, fostering a well-rounded and supportive learning environment.”
Teacher of the Year
Assistant Professor Julie Lee of the Department of Agribusiness & Food Industry Management/Agricultural Science was named Teacher of the Year.
Lee was lauded for her engaging and inclusive teaching style. her ability to break down complex concepts into relatable examples, and using real-world case studies to make curriculum come alive. In addition, she has helped students with micro-internships and letters of recommendation.
“The way she cares about our success and adapts her teaching style to her students is admirable and makes me feel valued,” one student wrote. “Her expertise and experience is obvious, and it has been my pleasure to know and learn from her.”