SAN LUIS OBISPO

POMONA

Vice President

Sophia Napier

Majoring in Landscape Architecture; Minoring in Environmental Studies, and Sustainable Environments 

I am a fourth-year student at Cal Poly SLO, pursuing my bachelor's degree in landscape architecture. I started out as a participant in the Design Department during the 2023 float “Road to Reclamation" where I worked on the baby snails. After getting hands on building experience, I became a design lead for the 2024 float “Shock n’ Roll: Powering the Musical Current”. On this float I oversaw and created the coral elements on the float. I am now excited to continue my participation in Rose Float as this year’s Vice President. Rose Float has allowed me to be a part of a creative design-build process which I hope to take with me in my future career as a landscape architect. 

VIce President

Matthew Rodarte

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

I am a fourth-year Electrical Engineering major at Cal Poly Pomona and this upcoming year will be my fourth and final year in the program. In the program I have worked as a volunteer in the design department for Stargrazers, the Pod Coordinator for Road to Reclamation, and most recently President for Shock n' Roll. I will be graduating in fall 2024, after which my goal is to work in Power Systems Engineering in the public sector. My time with the program has allowed me to make new friends and solve engineering and project management related problems. 

CONSTRUCTION CHAIR

Warren Taira

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I’m a third year student at Cal Poly SLO, concentrating in HVAC&R and minoring in Studio Art. After graduation, I hope to go into HVAC engineering and project management. During my time in the program, I have worked as a construction team member for Stargrazers, a Mechanism Lead for Road to Reclamation, and Assistant Construction Chair for Shock n’ Roll. I look forward to continuing my involvement in the program as Construction Chair for our 76th float! 

CONSTRUCTION CHAIR

Ian Hudson

Majoring in Mechanical Engineer

I’m a fourth year mechanical engineer at Pomona and a current Construction Chair for 2024-2025. I was a volunteer and mechanism lead for my first 2 floats, and the Assistant Construction Chair for the 2023-2024 float, Shock n’ Roll. Outside of school, I work on engineering projects from designing a mars rover to a FPV system for an RC car. Outside of engineering, I enjoy going to theme parks, playing DnD, and skiing. I’m very interested in themed entertainment and combining the creative and practical aspects of engineering, and Rose Float has been a great place to learn how to do so. As such, my career goal is to gain a project lead position in themed entertainment or aerospace. 

Assistant Construction Chair

Zoe Porter

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering; Minoring in Theatre

I'm a 4th year student concentrating in manufacturing and minoring in Theatre at CP SLO. My work building sets and props in the theatre primed me to be interested in Rose Float, and once I learned to weld for Stargrazers, I couldn't walk away. I've built 2 over height mechanisms, for 2024 Shock and Roll's clamshell, and for 2023 Road to Reclamation's giant mushroom, and am excited for my new role supporting the construction department and teaching new Rose Float participants.

I'll be graduating in March 2025 and hope to work with in manufacturing or themed entertainment.

Assistant Construction Chair

Adrian Jimenez-Hernandez

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a third-year student at Cal Poly Pomona, pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with plans to graduate in 2025. I joined Cal Poly Rose Float for the 2023 float Road To Reclamation as a volunteer, then a Mechanism Lead for the 2024 float Shock n’ Roll, and now will be the Assistant Construction Chair for the upcoming float. I gravitated towards Rose Float because it allows people to apply concepts learned in a classroom to a large-scale, hands-on environment, and am excited to lend the knowledge I’ve learned to new coming leads and participants. Once I graduate, I hope to work in research and development or as a project lead within the aerospace industry. 

Assistant Construction Chair

Rosie Fowler

Majoring in General Engineer

I’m a sophomore at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and I am this year's assistant construction chair. I started in the program as a construction participant working on the snails of the 2023 float Road to Reclamation where I helped reintroduce neoprene and floating rings to Cal Poly Rose Float. Last year I was a mechanism lead for Shock and Roll: Powering the Musical Current. I built the mechanisms for both arch eels and led the team that designed and constructed new types of concealment for all three eels and the manta ray. In Rose Float I have gotten to innovate and lead many interdisciplinary projects which is the type of career work I would like to pursue.

electronics LEad

Ryan Shipp

Majoring in Computer Engineering

I am a second year at Cal Poly Pomona, majoring in Computer Engineering. I was a volunteer in electronics working on the 2024 float Shock and Roll, helping with the complete reconstruction of our electronic control system. The experience I’ve gained during my time in Rose Float has been instrumental in my academic success and I can’t wait to lead the electronics team and continue the Cal Poly Pomona “Learn by Doing” tradition. Career-wise, I’m interested in power electronics and EVs. Rose Float has been a wonderful opportunity to both increase my understanding of the engineering field as well as gain skill and experience that will no doubt be helpful in my career.

Electronics Lead

Ryan Newton

Majoring in Physics and Industrial Engineering

I'm a third year student at Cal Poly SLO, originally from Sacramento, expecting to graduate in Spring 2026. I joined the electronics team on my first lab day during Stargrazers with almost no experience and have stuck around ever since. Last year as Assistant Electronics Lead for Shock n' Roll I helped create our new animation system from scratch, which was very challenging but very rewarding. I’m excited to finish and expand that system this year and make it work for us for many future floats. I’m not sure where I’ll go after college, but I plan to use my Rose Float experience along the way.

Assistant electronics Lead

Karina Francis

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

I am a second year Electrical Engineering major at Cal Poly Pomona. I started out as a participant my freshman year working on the ladybug mechs for the 2023 float Road to Reclamation. I then became a team member for the construction department where I worked on the electronics team for the 2024 float Shock n’ Roll. I am excited to continue working and apply what I have learned for the 2025 float. I plan to work in the themed entertainment industry when I graduate and use the skills I have gained while being a part of Cal Poly Rose Float. Outside of school I enjoy drawing, singing, and talking about theme parks.

Assistant Electronics Lead

Enzo Ruberto

Majoring in Computer Engineering

I’m a first year student at Cal Poly SLO, from Albany California. I Started off enthusiastically in the construction department, working on electronics for 2024’s Shock n’ Roll float. I’ve always enjoyed working on wiring and circuitry, so I had a lot of fun helping create a brand new animation control box. I love the Rose Float program because of how hands-on, and student-led it is. I love anything where I’m using my hands and my brain. My interests include film photography, coding, woodworking, hiking/camping, and building anything related to electronics. I look forward to my time in the Rose Float program and further developing my technical knowledge, as well as leadership and project management skills.

Hydraulics Lead

Marcus Lex

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a senior at Cal Poly Pomona, majoring in mechanical engineering. After volunteering and working within the hydraulics team as a participant and later team member on the 2024 float Shock and Roll, I am excited to apply what I’ve learned and experienced as the Pomona hydraulics lead for the upcoming 2025 float. Being a part of Rose Float has allowed me to take the knowledge gained in the classroom and apply it in the Cal Poly learn by doing mindset. In the future I’m looking into a career in fluids or in bike design. When I’m not working or studying, I can be found reading or enjoying some type of game. 

Hydraulics Lead

Gwendolyn Wren

Majoring in Computer Science

I am a 2nd year student at Cal Poly SLO, pursuing my bachelor's degree in computer science. When I joined Rose Float on the Electronics team in 2022, I wasn't sure if I would enjoy it – computers are my passion, and they're often not nearly this hands-on – but after my first lab day, I was hooked. I spent a year each in Electronics and Hydraulics, and I'm now serving as the SLO side Hydraulics Lead. I've learned a lot from this program, and I'm excited to teach the next generation what I know!

Assistant Hydraulics Lead

Stephanie Arenas

Majoring in Aerospace Engineering

I am a 1st year student at Cal Poly Pomona majoring in Aerospace Engineering. I was a volunteer last year in the Construction department. I directly worked with the hydraulics team on Shock N Roll (2023). I loved working on the float last year with a supportive team and getting some hands-on experience. In the future I hope to be part of the team for the rest of my college journey and encourage more people to join Rose Float!

Structural Welding Lead

Jeslyn Sun

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I'm a first year at SLO who started my Rose Float adventure with 2024's Shock and Roll float, where I helped work on the mechanism for the clamshell's spinning record and many other tasks as part of the construction team. My work in Shock and Roll varied; however, it ultimately positioned me for my current role. I'm excited to continue contributing to Cal Poly's "Learn by Doing" philosophy and build 2025's Best Float Ever! Outside of Rose Float, I am usually found jamming to music while roaming the wilderness, taking in the downtown SLO life, folding origami, or brewing up my next creation in Cal Poly's Innovation Sandbox.

mechanism Lead

Sean Hanna

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a sophomore at Cal Poly Pomona, studying Mechanical Engineering. I started out in this program with the 2023 Float Road to Reclamation as a hydraulics participant. I then moved on to hydraulics lead and engine operator for the 2024 float Shock and Roll. Cal Poly Rose float is home to a very welcoming environment that provides students with an incredible opportunity for hands-on learning, and I am very excited to share that opportunity with others this year as a mechanism lead. When I graduate, I hope to pursue a career in research and development in the automotive industry. 

mechanism Lead

Shannon Robinson

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I'm currently in my fourth year at Cal Poly SLO, pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Mechatronics. Last year, I became involved with Rose Float as part of the construction team. Right from the first meeting, I fell in love with Rose Float’s “Learn-by-Doing” mindset and strong sense of community. For the Shock and Roll float, I enjoyed working on "floating rings" and concealment for the Manta Ray and Eels. After graduation, I plan on pursuing engineering in the medical device industry. I love fast-paced and creative environments, similar to that of Rose Float. Outside of school and work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, crocheting, making jewelry, and listening to music!

mechanism Lead

Tyler Jackson

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hello! I am Tyler Jackson, a 4th year Mechanical Engineering major, expecting to graduate in Fall of 2025. I've lived in the High Desert for most of my life, so I'm excited to get out and explore. Some of my Hobbies include Origami and Videogames. This is my third year working on Cal Poly's parade float, and my second year as a mechanism lead. I hope to take the experience I'm getting through float-building and classes, and venture off into the themed entertainment industry, where I can come up with creative solutions that make people happy!

mechanism Lead

Lillian Panning

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering 

I am currently a first-year mechanical engineering student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. As a Pasadena resident, I have been watching the Rose Parade and Cal Poly’s floats for years. I joined Rose Float as a participant in the construction department working with the hydraulics team and completing various side quests for our 2024 float, Shock n’ Roll. I am very excited to be a mechanism lead this year! Outside of Rose Float, I like to spend my free time hiking, visiting theme parks, and listening to or making music. In the future, I would love a career in aerospace or the themed entertainment industry. I am so grateful to be part of this amazing organization! 

mechanism Lead

Amber McGrath

Majoring in Aerospace Engineering

I am currently a first year at Cal Poly Pomona and I am expecting to graduate in 2027. I joined Rose Float as a construction participant for the 2024 Shock n' Roll float. My team and I constructed the side eel mechanism, as well as aiding in the construction of various other mechs. In Rose Float, I learned new skills and gained confidence, all while making amazing new friends during my first semester of college. Everything I was taught by 2024 leadership helped me to move up into a Construction Leadership position for the 2025 float year. The experiences I've gained through Rose Float, and everything I will experience in the future, are things I will bring into my career in Astronautics and Space Exploration.

mechanism Lead

Madison Roth

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

I am a freshman electrical engineering major at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and I am so excited to serve as a mechanism lead for the 2025 Best Day Ever parade.  My first float was Shock and Roll where I worked on the electronics team and helped program and implement the animation system.  Throughout my time in rose float, I am so fortunate to have worked alongside incredible people and apply my engineering skills to this beautiful project.  In addition to Rose Float, I love crocheting sweaters, programming small projects, and hiking.  For the future, I look forward to a career in the themed entertainment or semiconductor industry.

mechanism Lead

Zander DeRenard

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

As of Spring 2024, I am a second year student at Cal Poly Pomona and expected to graduate in 2026. I helped build Cal Poly's 2023-2024 float, Shock and Roll! I was a part of the team constructing the eel 'fin ripple' effect mechanism, and that experience taught me so much about mechanics and machine-shop tools. Ever since elementary school, I have always had a passion with engineering in the themed entertainment world, and this program has ignited it even more! When I'm not doing this, you might find me drumming with some groups in Drum Corps International, skateboarding, exploring, and listening to lots of music. Since I've joined this program, it has been such a blessing, and I can't wait to use what I have learned last year and lead a team!

DESIGN CHAIR

Jessie Elizalde-Rendon

Majoring in Industrial Engineering

I’m a 4th-year student at Cal Poly SLO pursuing a bachelor’s in industrial engineering. I first joined the program as a participant in 2022’s StarGrazers and continued my involvement as element lead and assistant design chair in the following years. This upcoming 2025 float year, I am excited to have been selected and to serve as Design Chair for my last year in the program. I always enjoy watching our carefully crafted float design become a reality as each lab day passes with the collective effort of everyone involved. This has sparked my passion for project management and fostering a collaborative work environment. Outside of Rose Float, I enjoy singing as part of the Cantabile choir and participating in various intramural sports with friends.

DESIGN CHAIR

Amelia Atwell

Majoring in Architecture

Hi! I am a third-year architecture student on the Pomona campus, and this will be my third year as a part of Cal Poly Rose Float! I started in the program as a participant for Road to Reclamation, then I was a design lead for the electric guitars in Shock ‘n Roll and I am super excited to be the Design Chair for the upcoming float year! Rose Float has provided me with so many firsthand design-build experiences which I know will be extremely useful in the future as I pursue architecture and design. In addition to hands-on experiences, this program has also introduced me to so many amazing people, and I can’t wait to see what we will achieve this year!

Assistant Design Chair

Emily Tran

Majoring in Architecture 

I am currently in my fourth year at Cal Poly SLO and I have worked on three floats so far starting with Stargrazers as a team member and most recently working on Shock N Roll as a design lead. I enjoy the challenge of working on the different parts of the design process and the unique experience that comes with it. Rose Float has allowed me to design and build at a real scale while also meeting a variety of people who share the same passion. I look forward to building the next float and exploring the challenges that lie ahead! 

Assistant Design Chair

Allyson Castillo

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering 

I am a second year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly Pomona. I started off as a participant on the design team working on pod for the 2023 Road to Reclamation float. Then, I became the Pod Coordinator for the 2024 Shock N’ Roll float, which allowed me to develop hands-on experience in project management and problem-solving skills. Rose Float has provided me with the opportunity to learn new skills and make amazing friends while participating in one of the most unique experiences I’ve ever had in building a float. I look forward to what this year will bring, and I am excited to continue working alongside others and becoming more involved in the Rose Float program as this year’s Assistant Design Chair. 

Element LEad

Alana Heinlein

Majoring in Architecture

Hello! I’m a 3rd year Architecture major on the SLO campus. When I joined the program in 2021 for Stargrazers, I very quickly found my place in the Design department after learning how to weld. I served as the Scale Drawings Coordinator for both 2023’s Road to Reclamation and 2024’s Shock n’ Roll, where I had a hand in every aspect of the float and how they all worked together. This year, I’m excited to scale down and focus on creating my own element as an Element Lead. After college, I hope to go into residential design, and when I’m not working on school or the float, you can find me climbing, making jewelry, or hanging out with friends.

element Lead

Isabel Warth

Majoring in Computer Engineering

Hello! My name is Isabel and I'm a fourth-year student at Cal Poly Pomona, majoring in Computer Engineering. I joined the program in 2022 for the "Road to Reclamation'' float, so this year will be my third in the program and my second working as an Element Lead. I've had such a great experience in this program and besides being an awesome creative outlet, it's also allowed me to further develop my communication, leadership, project management, and visual/structural design skills. Being part of this team has been incredibly rewarding and has really solidified my interest in pursuing a career that integrates elements of Art/Design and Engineering. I'm looking forward to all the hard work, creativity, and collaboration ahead for our 2025 float.

element Lead

RJ Pollock

Majoring in Journalism

Hey Everyone! My name is RJ Pollock and I'm from the San Luis Obispo Campus. This is my third year with Cal Poly Rose Float and second as an element lead. I cannot wait to show you what we have in store for our float this year! Some of my hobbies include my bike, cooking, pc building, Magic the Gathering, hiking, swimming, welding (of course) and spending time with family and friends. I cannot wait to make our 2025 float this year and hope everyone loves it!

element Lead

Kate Strickland

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hiya! I’m Kate, a second year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly Pomona. I first attended Rose Float during Newcomer’s Day for Road to Reclamation. I was instantly hooked; being in the Design department felt just right for me. Despite joining with minimal practical experience, Rose Float has given me so many opportunities and memories, especially while working on Shock n’ Roll. I’m grateful for everyone who made my 2024 float year so special, and I’m also fortunate how Rose Float helps me and my career. Needless to say, I can’t wait to do it all again for our 2025 float.

element Lead

Stephanie Yeakle

Majoring in Kinesiology

Hi! I’m a 3rd year Kinesiology major at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. I started my rose float career on the 2024 float “Shock and Roll” as a participant in the design department. This year I’m on the design leadership team as an element lead. I plan on attending graduate school and being a physical therapist in the future. I’ve learned so many skills from a rose float that I would have never had the opportunity to learn otherwise along with leadership and creative problem-solving skills. I have made so many great friends and built amazing relationships that will follow me throughout life. My one regret with Rose Float is not getting involved sooner.

Element Lead

Johnathan Bustillos

Majoring in Civil Engineering

I am a 3rd year student at Cal Poly Pomona and I started as a design participant for Road to Reclamation where I worked on the ladybugs and inchworm. I then became a team member and worked on the shelf coral for Shock and Roll. For this 2025 float I will be an element lead. To me, Rose Float holds a very special place in my heart, and I hope to inspire this feeling in the new participants as well. Career-wise I am interested in structural engineering, I have had experience working in the public sector and would like to see how the private sector functions. I am looking forward to all the memories to be made this float year!

element Lead

Allie Dowdy

Majoring in Biochemistry; Minoring in Spanish

I am a 2nd year at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, majoring in biochemistry and minoring in Spanish. After being a volunteer and assisting with various design elements for the 2023 float "Shock and Roll", I am excited to apply the knowledge I have gained this year as an element lead. Rose Float has taught me so much about leadership and teamwork that I hope to bring to my career as a doctor. I have met some of the most amazing people and made memories to last a lifetime.

Concealment Lead

Alisson Mora

Majoring in Apparel Merchandising and Manufacturing- Production Emphasis

I'm a junior student that transferred this last fall to California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. I became involved with the Rose Float Program by volunteering in the Decorations department of the program. I had the privilege of working on Cal Poly’s seventy-fifth Rose Float, Shock n’ Roll: Powering the Music Current. After volunteering in the Decorations department for a little while, I had the opportunity to work with different departments and work on concealment of the manta ray wings and electric eel necks/fins. This year I have the pleasure of working as a concealment leader in the Design department. The career path I have chosen is sample making in fashion design. The Rose Float program has taught me skills that help me reach this goal.

Element Lead

Lorenzo Cano

Majoring in City and Regional Planning

I am currently a freshman at Cal Poly Slo! I started off in the program as a volunteer on the Design team working on the 75th anniversary float, but made my way up to team member about halfway through. I recently made it as an element lead for the Design team on the float and I could not be any more excited. I am hyped to lead a team in constructing a piece to contribute to this historical tradition. Some things about me: I am super into all things fashion (particularly the 70s) and I love basketball. As for my career, I would love to make a difference in how cities are constructed, and make them more livable and walkable for future generations.

Pod coordinatoLauren Mao

Lauren Mao

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering; Minoring in Materials Engineering

I am currently a first year Mechanical Engineering and Materials Engineering Minor student at Cal Poly Pomona. I started as a participant in the Design Department where I worked on the pod of 2024's Shock n' Roll. This was a great opportunity for me to not only learn how to weld, but bond with team members and other participants. I was then invited to be part of the team and selected to be this year's design lead. Joining Rose Float has been a great way to "Learn by Doing" at Cal Poly Pomona and has allowed me to gain technical skills and develop my leadership skills. I am looking forward to contributing to Rose Float as Pod coordinator!

Scales Coordinator

Lexi Breault

Majoring in Landscape Architecture

I am a second year at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, majoring in Landscape Architecture and graduating in 2027. I volunteered in Design for the 2024 float Shock and Roll: Powering the Musical Current where I worked on shaping and welding the clam. I got hooked on the very first day, became a team member and then applied for leadership becoming the Scales Coordinator for 2025's float. I really appreciate how hands on Rose Float is and that it strengthens problem solving which I will take into my future career as a Landscape Architect.

Assistant Pod coordinator

Bryan Ramillano

Majoring in Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering

I am presently a second-year student at Cal Poly Pomona. I started working in the Rose Float program for the 2024 “Shock N Roll'' float as a participant working on the pod. During my first semester in the program, I've not only learned how to weld long rods of steel together or apply burn ointment after getting burned, but also soft skills like time management and managing expectations. I also met so many new friends in the program and bonded (with some suffering) over the experiences we had together building the float. As the 2025 float’s Assistant Pod coordinator, I aim to provide new participants with the same amazing experience I had along with making the coolest float imaginable.

DECORATIONS CHAIR

Aubrey Goings

Majoring in Architecture; Minoring in Sustainable Environments

I am a second year at Cal Poly SLO and I joined the Decorations Team in my first year! For the 2023 Float, Road to Reclamation, I designed and decorated a baby snail, detail mushrooms, and the inchworm. I also led the construction of the pinecone knots that decorated the log! For the 2024 Float, Shock n' Roll: Powering the Musical Current, I was the Assistant Decorations Chair. I contacted many potential donors and was able to help us cover much of the float with wonderful donated materials! The detail, design, and leadership skills I've gained in Rose Float are things I want to take with me to thematic or historical preservation architecture.

DECORATIONS CHAIR

Anna Wu

Majoring in Civil Engineering

I am currently a second year student at Cal Poly Pomona. When I first joined Rose Float, I was a part of the Construction department and helped build the mechanism that moved the front snail’s eyes on 2023’s Road to Reclamation. I then became a Decoration’s lead where I learned how to grow statice and cornflower for 2024’s Shock and Roll: Powering the Musical Current. I was selected to become the Decorations Chair for 2025’s upcoming float, a task that I am excited to take on. Throughout this program, I was able to work with so many amazing people on such beautiful floats. It has given me valuable leadership lessons that will aid me for the rest of my life.

Assistant Decorations Chair

Haley Kost

Majoring in Plant Science; Minoring in Landscape Architecture

Hi, I'm a 2nd-year Plant Science major with a minor in Landscape Architecture at Cal Poly SLO. I joined the program for the 2023 Float, Road to Reclamation, as a participant in the Deco department, and for this past year's float, “Shock and Roll,” I was the SLO flower fields manager. I hope that the skills I learn while in the program will help me in my future career in landscape design with native plants. Outside of Rose Float, I'm on the student leadership team for the Cal Poly Horticulture Club, where we do fun activities such as day trips to Pinnacles National Park to get people excited about our natural world. I’m very excited to see what this new float year brings! 

Assistant Decorations Chair

Sam Kinney

Majoring in Urban and Regional Planning; Minoring in Landscape Architecture

Hello, I am a third year student at Cal Poly Pomona. I first joined Rose Float for the 2023 Road to reclamation float where I got to learn how to test materials and work with neoprene. During the 2024 Shock and Roll float I was the Material Testing Lead and got to lead various testing exercises and teach others how to test materials. I also got the opportunity to work with a team for neoprene concealment and figure out how to draw lightning patterns on the float. The Rose Float Program has taught me how to better work with a team and how to lead others. Working in the decorations department has helped become more creative and improved my problem solving skills. After graduation, I plan to use the skills I have learned to become an urban planner and specialize in historic preservation or public policy. 

Materials Testing Lead

Emily Marfia

Majoring in Higher Education, Counseling, and Student Affairs (M.S)

I am a 2nd year graduate student at Cal Poly SLO, and I am a part of the Decorations department for Cal Poly Rose Float. I have been a previous volunteer for the 2022 Road to Reclamation float, as well as a team member in the Decorations department for the 2023 Shock N' Roll float. I am now on the leadership team as the 2025 float "Materials Testing Lead", where my team and I will experiment and test with different materials and textures to figure out what will be utilized during the final week of construction. I have learned new skills in Rose Float that have helped prepare me for a career working and serving students in Higher Education. Rose Float is incredibly diverse in it's population, which has helped me forge connections cross campuses and cross-identities. I am endlessly grateful for the team I work with.  

Materials Testing Lead

Katia Corletto

Majoring in Music Industry Studies

I’m currently a freshman at Cal Poly Pomona earning a bachelor’s degree in MIS for audio and sound engineering in hopes of one day working for Sony Music. Our 2024 float Shock and Roll was my first time working with the program and it was an amazing experience that has taught me many valuable skills. Being part of Rose Float has allowed me to have another creative outlet where I can express and create new ideas with florals and deco materials as well as become a better leader and problem solver. When I’m not in lab you can find me drawing, messing around with music, watching sports, at a concert, or hanging with my friends. 

Inventory Lead

Elsa Panning

Majoring in Psychology; Minoring in Child Development

I am currently a first-year psychology major at Cal Poly SLO. I joined Rose Float last Fall for the 2024 float “Shock n’ Roll” as a part of the Decorations Team. Having lived in Pasadena since I was a teenager, joining CPRF was an easy decision. I love Rose Float because I get to work with people from so many different backgrounds. I hope to apply the leadership and organizational skills I learn in Rose Float to a career in school counseling, or another field where I can work with children. Outside of Rose Float, I am a summer camp counselor and play the French Horn in the Cal Poly Wind Ensemble.

Inventory Lead

Michelle Wu

Majoring in Accounting

Hello! My name is Michelle and I am currently a first-year student at Cal Poly Pomona. I am pursuing a bachelor's degree in accounting and expected to graduate in 2027. With a future goal of becoming an entrepreneur. My involvement with Cal Poly Rose Float started with the Shock n’ Roll float in the decorations department helping process flowers and test materials. Where I embodied the “Learn by Doing” motto and explored testing different materials to create certain textures and effects. Also with the opportunity to lead groups of volunteers to decorate a section of the float. During my free time, I enjoy watching Korean and Chinese dramas, cooking, scrapbooking, and building Legos with a recent interest in Studio Ghibli films.

Flower Fields Manager

Kayla Taylor

Majoring in Architecture 

I am currently a first-year student at California Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo, where I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in architecture. My involvement as a team member in the decorations department has been an enriching experience, culminating in the completion of my first float, Shock N’ Roll. I look forward to continuing my contributions to the Rose Float program as I take on the role of Flower Fields Manager for the 2025 float. Through this program, I have been able to unleash my creative side, experiment with new ideas, and hone my problem-solving abilities. My participation in the Rose Float program has also been instrumental in fostering my leadership skills, which I believe will prove essential as I pursue my aspirations in architecture.

Flower Fields Manager

Baily Beene

Majoring in Landscape Architecture

I am a second-year student at Cal Poly Pomona, pursuing my bachelor's degree in landscape architecture. I started as a participant in the Decorations Department during my first float in 2023  “Road to Reclamation" where I worked on testing, processing, and procuring materials. After getting the much-needed hands-on experience, I became the Decorations Chair for the 2024 float “Shock n’ Roll: Powering the Musical Current”. On this float, I encouraged my leads, team members, and participants to get creative with materials, to create the incredible float we saw roll down the parade route. I am now excited to experience a new level of reasonability as the flower field manager this year and help to grow many flowers that will make their way onto the float in the final stage of decoration. Rose Float has allowed me to be a part of a unique design-build process which I know I will take with me into my future career as a landscape architect and hope to apply creative problem-solving solutions to my future designs.

greenhouse manager

Mia Brown

Majoring in Plant Science

Hi! My name is Mia Brown. I'm a plant science major on the cal poly san luis obispo campus! I am currently in my second year at cal poly. I have been fortunate enough to be able to work on two past floats so far and this is my second year in leadership as the greenhouse manager and the third float I will work on! After college I want to get a doctorate in plant science or something related to horticulture and plants, with that I ultimately want to teach about plants and spend the rest of my life studying and learning about them!

Assistant Flower Fields

Natalie Cano

Majoring in Computer Information Systems

I’m a first year student and I started at a participant in the decorations department with my first float being Shock n Roll: Powering the Musical Current. I am excited to be a part of this year’s leadership team as the Flower Fields Manager Assistant. I’ve enjoyed expanding my knowledge of deco this past season and challenging myself with something new. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn through Rose Float. When I’m not with Rose Float you can find me trying my hand at new cyber challenges, listening to musical theater, dancing, or hanging out with friends.

OPERATIONS CHAIR

Reese Matheny

Majoring in Architecture

I am a third year architecture major at the SLO campus and my rose float journey began in the spring of 2022 as a deco team member for the 2023 float: Road to Reclamation. The next year, I held the position of SLO Decorations Chair for Shock n’ Roll: Powering the Musical Current. Taking on that role was incredibly challenging but equally rewarding. Being chair made me grow a lot and I am thrilled to be taking on the challenge once again as SLO Operations Chair for the 2025 float. After college, I hope to have a career in the restoration of historical homes.

OPERATIONS CHAIR

Jonathan Justice

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hello! I am a 3rd year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly Pomona. My time with the program began working as a participant on the 2023 float Road to Reclamation, then as a Mechanism Lead for the 2024 float Shock n’ Roll. I’m so excited to be back again this year as Operations Chair and hope to share this program with everyone. After I graduate, I plan to pursue a career in the theme park and entertainment industry, working on attractions. When I’m not in school or at Rose Float, I’m probably spending time at work, going to theme parks, trying to figure out what I should do, or sleeping.

Assistant operations Chair

Joseph Mendoza

Undeclared

Hello! I am currently a first-year Undeclared major who will be pursuing Plant Science at Cal Poly Pomona! I am hoping to pursue a career in horticultural fieldwork, pomology, or librarianship. Some of my other interests include dance, music composition and technology, literature and film, and cycling! I joined Cal Poly Rose Float in the 2024 fall semester, and have remained joyfully dedicated to the Operations department since my first lab day. I cannot imagine a greater way to begin my college journey than growing alongside my fellow Ops team members and the department itself. As a participant and team member, I loved preparing meals in the kitchen, organizing around the lab, and being flexible to help wherever the need arose. I am so grateful for all the memories, friends, and mistakes I have made in my short time with Cal Poly Rose Float thus far, and I am eager to serve all members of the program as Assistant Operations Chair!

Hospitality Coordinator

Rana Soussan

Majoring in Kinesiology; Minoring in Nutrition

Hi! I am a first-year Kinesiology student minoring in nutrition at Cal Poly Pomona. I started as a participant in operations during the 2024 Shock n’ Roll float where I helped prep amazing meals. I was drawn to volunteering for Rose Float by the community I experienced, the opportunity to learn new things, the problem-solving aspect, and working with others. Now I'm excited to be a part of this year's float as the hospitality coordinator. I hope to continue an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity ensuring that every member of our Rose Float family, old and new, feels valued and supported. I aspire to use the soft skills I gain from this leadership experience and combine them with my passion for serving others and helping others live their healthiest lives as a physical therapist إِنْ شَاءَ ٱللَّٰهُ. 

Assistant Hospitality Coordinator

Alfred Hernandez Jr.

Majoring in Hospitality Management Food and Beverage; Minoring in Accounting

I am currently attending Cal Poly Pomona majoring in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Food & Beverage and minoring in Accounting. I started participating in Rose Float in 2024 with the “Shock and Roll” float and worked in the Operations Department. This is where I had the opportunity to work in the kitchen lab and loved it. This component of the Rose Float helped me learn how to prepare and coordinate within the kitchen for a large team. I now have the opportunity to be this years Assistant Hospitality Coordinator Lead for this upcoming year. Some fun facts about me: I love sharks and Dr. Pepper (a bit too much), enjoy playing video games and go on adventures! I am excited for this year and can’t wait for what the future holds!

PR & Social Media

Brandon Arellano

Majoring in Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

I am a first-year Industrial & Manufacturing engineering student at Cal Poly Pomona. I've been involved with Cal Poly Rose Float since the beginning of my first year as a participant for the newly made operations department, during the 2024 Shock n’ Roll. I’m excited to not only work on this year's float but also be more involved in the program as PR & Social Media leadership. Working to make sure this program gets the support that it needs, along with the recognition and operations that our fellow students need! Other than my club, I like to hang out with friends and have a passion for working on engineering projects.

Merchandise Coordinator

Ki’ilani Versoza

Majoring in Psychology

I am a first-year psychology student, I started my journey at Cal Poly Rose Float as a first-year participant in the newly established operation department. Being involved with Rose Float since the beginning of my college career has been a rewarding experience, having Shock n' Roll float as a start to a new beginning. This opportunity as a merchandising coordinator not only allows me to apply my psychological insights in new ways but also provides a platform to explore and enhance my skills in marketing, fostering personal and professional growth in an exciting environment.

Special Events Coordinator

Kelly Luna-Flores

Majoring in Civil Engineering

Hi everyone! My name is Kelly Luna-Flores and I am currently a second year transfer at Cal Poly Pomona pursuing my Bachelors in Civil Engineering. My Cal Poly Rose Float journey started with the 2023 “Road to Reclamation” float. I initially signed up as an outside volunteer during deco week and really enjoyed the energy everyone had. That’s when I decided to join the program at school for the 2024 “Shock n’ Roll” float. For this float, I was a part of the construction department where my group supported in creating the mechanism for one of the moving elements. After being able to gain this kind of hands-on learning experience, I wanted to further my involvement in the program through a leadership position. With that said, this year I have the privilege of being a part of the leadership team as the Special Events Coordinator. As the Special Events Coordinator I hope to continue to create a space that generates the positive energy that keeps bringing people to Rose Float!

Graphic Artist coordinator

John Pham

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a 2nd-year mechanical engineering major at Cal Poly Pomona and initially joined the Rose Float program as a construction participant. Through an incredible experience working on the 2023 Road to Reclamation float, I was eager to come back. I was then given the opportunity as mechanism lead, responsible for designing and fabricating a moving element on the 2024 Shock n' Roll float. Not only have I gained new leadership and technical skills, but I've learned about the practical applications of many in-class concepts and processes. I aspire to take what I have learned and apply it to a career in either mechanical design or alternative energy systems. I am excited to further explore another skill set as a graphic artist for the 2025 Rose Float. If that is not a Cal Poly "learn by doing" experience, I don't know what is!