SAN LUIS OBISPO

POMONA

Vice President

Stephanie Yeakle

Majoring in Kinesiology

My name is Stephanie Yeakle, and I’m from Lakeside, California. I’m a fifth-year kinesiology major with a minor in biology. At Cal Poly, I’m deeply involved in the anatomy program and work closely with the human body donation program. I first joined Rose Float in 2024, and the 2026 float will be my final one. This year, I have the incredible honor of serving as the Vice President for the San Luis Obispo campus. Rose Float has been an important part of my college experience — it’s given me the chance to meet amazing people and take part in opportunities I never would have had otherwise. The skills I’ve gained are truly invaluable, and while it will be difficult to say goodbye, I wouldn’t trade these experiences for anything. After graduating, I plan to pursue my doctorate in Physical Therapy and become a physical therapist. The skills I've acquired revolving around leadership and teamwork will undoubtedly follow me throughout the rest of my schooling and career.

VIce President

Johnathan Justice

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hi friends! I am a fifth-year Mechanical Engineering major at Cal Poly Pomona and this will be my fourth year here at Cal Poly Rose Float. My first year with the program was working on the 2023 float, Road to Reclamation. My journey has led me to building six-foot snails, flying manta rays, and most recently, expanding the entirety of the Operations Department. I'm so excited to be back for another year as the Pomona Vice President, where I can provide everyone with the same love, support, and learning I have gotten year after year. This program has given me such amazing opportunities and has truly set me up for my goal of entering the themed entertainment industry. Here's to an amazing final year!

CONSTRUCTION CHAIR

Ryan Newton

Majoring in Physics, Majoring in Industrial Engineering

I'm a fifth 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 little experience. Last year as Electronics Lead I helped finish updating our animation system, led our mechanism tests, and served as Animation Engine Operator in the 2025 Rose Parade. I’m excited to be this year's construction chair, and to help our team to build an amazing float! I'll definitely learn a lot myself along the way. I’m not sure exactly where I’ll go after college, but I plan to use my Rose Float experience along the way.

CONSTRUCTION CHAIR

Sean Hanna

Majoring in Mechanical Engineer

I am a 4th year student at Cal Poly Pomona, and I started as a hydraulics participant for the 2023 float Road to Reclamation. The following year, I worked as the hydraulics lead and engine operator for Shock n’ Roll. Last year, I worked as a mechanism lead for the spinning cow on Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. As this year’s construction chair, I am very excited to apply the knowledge and experience I’ve gained through my time in this program. When I am not at Rose Float I enjoy playing volleyball or going rock climbing. I am currently pursuing a career in design engineering.

Assistant Construction Chair

Lillian Panning

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a third year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and I am super excited to be the Assistant Construction Chair for SLO this year! I joined Rose Float as a member of the hydraulics team for Shock and Roll in 2024 and was a mechanism lead for Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs in 2025. As a Pasadena resident, joining Rose Float was an easy choice for me. After graduation in 2027, I plan to work as a mechanical engineer in California. In my free time, I like to paint, cook, and enjoy the nature around SLO.

Assistant Construction Chair

Kaleb Lee

Majoring in Computer Information Systems

My name is Kaleb, I am a 4th year Computer Information Systems major at Cal Poly Pomona. This will be my 4th year with Rose Float since first joining the construction team during Road to Reclamation as a freshman in 2022. While I have experience designing and building sets for my high school's technical theater club, learning to work with welders and larger machinery was has been a thrilling experience. I applied these new skills to help build a ladybug and speaker mechanism for the program. Stepping into the role of assistant electronics lead in my second year for Shock n' Roll allowed me to combine my experiences with working on mechanisms with the concepts in computing and electronics that I am learning in my studies. In addition to school and clubs, I enjoy spending time outdoors, often with a small sketchbook to practice "drawing from life" or "urban sketching" as a way to refocus on and enjoy the present. I am excited to continue to learn management and technical skills to grow within the program with hopes of building a career in IT or cybersecurity.

electronics LEad

Enzo Ruberto

Majoring in Computer Engineering

I am a lifelong enjoyer of anything electronics and wiring, as well as completing team projects. I’m from Albany, CA where I earned my Eagle Scout award for leadership through Boy Scouts. I try to have a positive impact on the places I go; during high school I created curriculum tor a new electronics/engineering class, which is currently being taught and improved on. I started out during my first year at SLO in computer engineering as electronics assistant for CPRF, and now during my second year I because electronics lead. I plan on being a part of Rose Float until I graduate.

Assistant Construction Chair

Chase Tran

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am currently a senior at Cal Poly Pomona, pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Joining Cal Poly Rose Float has given me the opportunity to build upon my mechanical experience from helping lead the building of pod, the base structure of the float, for Shock'N'Roll as Pod Assistant, to designing and manufacturing mounts for the subsystems in Nessie's Lakeside Laughs. Rose Float is the perfect representation of the “Learn by Doing” experience at Cal Poly Pomona by taking what we learn in the classroom and applying it to the many subsystems of the float. Career-wise, I’m interested in projects relating to mechanical design and structures. I’m excited going into this year as Assistant Construction Chair.

Strucrural Welding lead

Nathaniel Little

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Nathaniel Little, Mechanical Engineering

Currently I’m a 4th year undergraduate student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. This is my third year on the team and my first on leadership. I was born and raised in the East Bay Area. Besides Rose Float I’m an active member in Cal Poly SLO’s archery club and Engineering Without Borders. Besides classwork and clubs I enjoy rock climbing, playing games with my friends, and sketching.

Assistant electronics Lead

Karina Francis

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

I am a 4th 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 worked on the electronics team for the 2024 float 'Shock n’ Roll'. I was then a part of the leadership team as Assistant Electronics Lead for 'Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs'. I am excited to continue working and apply what I have learned as Electronics Lead for the 2026 float. I plan to work as a control systems or electronic design engineer 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 and talking about theme parks.

Assistant Electronics Lead

Bennett Parisi

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

My name is Bennett Parisi, and I am a graduate student studying Electrical Engineering at Cal Poly SLO. Last year I finished my undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering where I focused on autonomous vehicles and general control system’s theory, which I am continuing my research on in my master’s. Previously, I have worked on “Shock n’ Roll” and “Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs” with the Cal Poly Rose Float Program, both in the Electronics Department. Outside of Cal Poly’s Rose Float I also participate in the university’s choir program and compete with the Cal Poly Ballroom Dance Team, both of which I have been part of since my first year at Cal Poly. I am very excited to be part of leadership for Rose Float this coming year!

Assistant Electronics Lead

Gabriel Qu

Majoring in Electrical Engineering

Hi, I am currently a second year Electrical Engineering student at Cal Poly Pomona. I joined Rose Float in the fall of 2024 and worked on our various electronic systems, including our animation and power systems for Best Day Ever as a participant, and joined team right before the end of the year. I am interested in control systems and communication engineering, of which Rose Float has given me valuable insight into. I look forward to learning more, practice my skills, work with a wonderful team, and contribute to making another beautiful float.

Hydraulics Lead

Parker Lewis

Majoring in Civil Engineering

I’m a second-year Civil Engineering student at Cal Poly SLO. Introduced to Rose Float last year, I found immediate interest in hydraulics. For 2025’s Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs, I started in the hydraulic department as a participant and became a team member later on. Being able to get my hands dirty right away—plumbing the float’s different mechanisms and helping with general system maintenance—made me fall in love with the process. I’m excited to continue working with Rose Float, surrounded by such a great team! Outside the lab, some of my other interests include transportation engineering, fencing, and mountain unicycling.

Hydraulics Lead

Daniel Barr

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a senior at Cal Poly Pomona, majoring in mechanical engineering. After working on the hydraulics team as a participant and eventually a team member on both Shock and Roll and Nessie's Lakeside Laughs, I am excited to apply what I have learned for the upcoming 2025 float. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in the either the automotive or aerospace industries.

Assistant Hydraulics Lead

Collin Marfia

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

Hello! My name is Collin Marfia and I’m a 2nd year Grad Student in the Higher Education, Counseling, and Student Affairs (HECSA) program at Cal Poly SLO! I graduated with my B.A. in History and my B.S. in Anthropology & Geography from Cal Poly SLO in the Spring of 2024, and worked with the Rose Float program throughout my undergraduate education. I started as a participant for “Stargrazers,” and then was the Hydraulics and Engine Lead as well as the Drive Engine Operator for the 2023 float “Road to Reclamation.” I served as the Vice President for “Shock n’ Roll: Powering the Musical Current,” and was last year's President for “Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs.” After graduating, I hope to work in the Museum Field in either curatorial work or public history and education.

Assistant Hydraulics Lead

Benjamin Phillips

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I am a junior at Cal Poly Pomona, majoring in mechanical engineering. I started as a participant working with the hydraulics team on "Nessie's Lakeside Laughs", then became a team member and continued to work with hydraulics. As the assistant hydraulics lead, I look forward to using the knowledge I gained last year to help build another great float. Some of the things I enjoy in my free time are photography, playing the guitar/piano, hiking, and video games. I eventually want to fly in some capacity and become an astronaut, while also building my own custom home.

mechanism Lead

Jeslyn Sun

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hi there, I'm Jes, and I'm a third-year mechanical engineering student from the SLO side. I am passionate about innovative design and applying what I've learned to projects that improve the quality of life. Outside of academics, I love to get creative in the kitchen or go on spontaneous adventures in the SLO outdoors. I've been around for "Shock n' Roll" and "Nessie's Lakeside Laughs," having finished each journey with new, unforgettable memories. With every float, I look forward to meeting and growing alongside other floaters and embracing "The Magic in Teamwork" while becoming a better version of myself. I'm can't wait to see what exciting trail our new float carves out this year!

mechanism Lead

Matthew De La Rosa

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hello everyone! I am a fourth-year Cal Poly Pomona student and have been with the program ever since the 2024 Rose Parade season. I have worked on the Manta Ray mechanism for the "Shock n' Roll" float and also worked on the boat mechanism for the "Nessie's Lakeside Laughs" float. Ever since I first started, I have love how this program has allowed me to grow as a person as I am able to collaborate with many amazing, creative individuals to develop something everyone can enjoy when it goes down Colorado Blvd on New Year's Day. From learning how to weld to testing our mechanisms, I have developed skills that I know I will cherish when I head into the engineering field. Being part of this program has been an unforgettable journey, and I’m excited to make more memories and continue growing alongside such an inspiring team.

mechanism Lead

Owen Cheng

Majoring in Civil Engineering, Minoring in GIS for Agriculture, Minoring in Geology

I’m a fourth-year student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and gearing up for my third float season with the Construction Team. Originally from Los Angeles, I’ve gained hands-on experience through float construction, especially in teamwork and project coordination. I plan to graduate in Spring 2027 and aspire to work in land development or geotechnical engineering, with an emphasis on sustainable design. Outside of float, I enjoy cooking, experimenting with my 3D printer, and creating ceramic sculptures. I’m looking forward to taking on a larger role this year and continuing to contribute to an incredible team effort.

mechanism Lead

Derek Gutierrez

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Hello! My name is Derek Gutierrez. I am a Junior majoring in Mechanical Engineering at Cal Poly Pomona. This is my third year in the Rose Float program and first year serving as a Construction Mechanisms Lead. Throughout my years in the program, I have worked on mechanisms such as the 2024 manta ray and the 2025 rocking boat. I’m excited to lead a team this year to design and build a mechanism. I am also an officer in ASME and a member of UMBRA’s project ExoBronco team focusing on design for a two-stage rocket. Outside of engineering, I play alto saxophone in the university’s Jazz Band. In the future, I hope to pursue a career in robotics or aerospace design.

mechanism Lead

Alex Casillas

Majoring in Architecture, Minor in Landscape Architecture

I am a third-year architecture student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and one of the Mechanism Leads for the 2025-2026 Float. I grew up near the Pomona Campus, creating an early interest in the Rose Float Program and design. This is my third year in the program and my first year in leadership. I worked on a variety of construction projects for Shock N’ Roll and Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs, as well as a Section Lead during Decorations. In my academic career, I am aspiring to gain my Architecture License and work in mixed-use developments. I also serve as the director for Freedom By Design, the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) community service program in partnership with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), which uses the talents of architecture students to radically impact the lives of people in their community through modest design and construction solutions. In my rare free time, I enjoy growing my vinyl records collection and watercolor painting at different places I travel to. I am excited to work on a large-scale project that brings joy to so many people within and beyond the Cal Poly community.

mechanism Lead

Amber McGrath

Majoring in Aerospace Engineering, Minor in Astronomy

I am a third year at Cal Poly Pomona, and I am expecting to graduate in 2027. In my first year, I joined Rose Float as a construction participant for the 2023-2024’s Shock n’ Roll float, where I helped in the construction of the side eel mechanism as well as various other projects. For 2024-2025’s Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs, I was a Mechanism Lead designing and constructing the 3 puffin mechanisms with the help of my team. For my second year as a Mechanism Lead, I want to improve on everything I learned last year and apply it to leading my new team, designing my new mechanism, and enjoying the new year. Using all of the things I’ve learned in my time at Rose Float, I am hoping to enter a career in Astronautics and Space Exploration.

DESIGN CHAIR

Allie Dowdy

Majoring in Biochemistry

I’m a fourth year biochemistry major and have been a part of Rose Float for the past three years. I started as a participant on Shock N’ Roll and then lead the team that built Nessie’s tail on Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. Rose Float has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. It’s taught me to lead a team, work through challenges creatively, and embrace changes. All things that will help me in my career as a doctor. I’ve also met some of my closest friends in this program and can’t wait to see what we build this year!

DESIGN CHAIR

Allyson Castillo

Majoring in Mechanical Enigeering

I am a 4th 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. Most recently, I served as the Assistant Design Chair and helped design the boat on the 2025 "Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs" float. I always enjoy seeing the creativity, innovation, and problem-solving that goes into bringing each float to life. I am excited to see what this new year brings, and I look forward to collaborating with others and taking on new challenges as this year’s Design Chair.

Assistant Design Chair

RJ Pollock

Majoring in Journalism 

Hi! I’m RJ Pollock, and I’ll be a fourth-year Journalism student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo for the upcoming float season. I’m honored to be serving as Assistant Design Chair on the SLO side after three incredible years on the Rose Float design team. Being part of this creative and collaborative tradition has shaped my passion for storytelling and visual design. I hope to pursue a career in multimedia production after graduation. Originally from Redondo Beach, I also work as the MNTV News Director for Mustang Media Group, where I lead video production for campus news. Outside of class, I enjoy biking, cooking, and exploring new creative projects.

Assistant Design Chair

Kate Strickland

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering 

Hiya! I’m Kate, a fourth year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly Pomona. I first attended Rose Float during Newcomer’s Day for 2023’s Road to Reclamation. I was instantly hooked; I knew that the Design department felt just right for me. I loved the idea of truly bringing our float to life through the design and production of the elements themselves. I’m grateful for all the opportunities Rose Float and the people in it have given me. I had a blast working as an element lead on our dogs Doc and Mocha for 2025’s Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs, and I’m excited to take it up a notch and support our team as an Assistant Design Chair this year.

Element LEad

Sarah Vali

Majoring in Child Development

I am a second-year child development major on the San Luis Obispo campus. I joined Rose Float in the fall of 2024 and immediately gravitated towards the Design department. While working on the 2025 float, I became an official team member of Design and primarily helped with Nessie’s arch. I am excited to be on the leadership team as an Element Lead and working towards making another extraordinary float. Outside this program, I am the Poly Child Development Club secretary and a Best Buddies Club member. After Cal Poly, I hope to become a Pediatric Occupational Therapist.

element Lead

Dylan Hudson

Majoring in Civil Engineering

I am Dylan Hudson, a 4th year at Cal Poly Pomona studying General Civil Engineering and this will be my fourth float that I will be working on. I first participated in Rose Float on the 2023 float Road to Reclamation in design. This year is my first year on the design leadership team as an element lead. Ever since joining, I have learned many skills and made many memories especially with Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. I do hope to further my career in the transportation area. Outside of Rose Float I enjoy watching sports namely basketball and soccer, as well as playing video games. I am grateful for all of the memories made from Rose Float and can’t wait for the 2026 float.

element Lead

Colin Root

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I’m Colin Root and I’m a fourth year Mechanical Engineering student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. I am originally from Huntington Beach California. This season will be my second with the Cal Poly Rose Float program and I couldn’t be more excited! My first season with the team was an incredible opportunity and experience. I love working in the design department of CPRF and I am looking forward to pursuing design in the upcoming season and beyond college.

element Lead

Naomi Devine

Majoring in Technology and Operations Management

I’m thrilled to be working on my 5th float. After studying Mechanical Engineering for 3 years, I expect to graduate with a degree in Business Administration: Technology and Operations Management from our Pomona campus in December 2026. I started as a freshman, with Stargrazers, and have worked on every float since. Honestly, I never expected to join leadership. I was satisfied being a happy little worker bee, because frankly, the enthusiasm I saw from leadership was scary. I never felt skilled or dedicated enough to join the leadership team until I realized that they are just like me. In fact, recently, most of them have less experience than I do. So maybe I am knowledgeable, skilled, and dedicated enough to benefit this program in leadership.

element Lead

Daniel Botzbach

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

I'm Daniel Botzbach, a 3rd year mechanical engineering major at Cal Poly SLO. This is my second year apart of the Rose Float program. I started as a construction team member but have shifted departments to become a design element lead! Outside of Rose Float, I work part time for an electronic manufacturer back home in Orange County, California. I also like to bake, make coffee, and play the piano!

Element Lead

William Gideon

Majoring in Biotechnology

My first year with the Rose Float program was for 2025's "Nessie's Lakeside Laughs," where I found joy working on large-scale projects with my peers. This program uniquely offers a space for students to apply their academics, create community, and work hands-on. These qualities drew me to the program, and I look forward to building and carrying this legacy!

Scales Coordinator

Lexi Brealt

Majoring in Landscape Architecture

I am a fourth year at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, majoring in Landscape Architecture and graduating in 2027. I was a volunteer in design for the 2024 float Shock and Roll: Powering the Musical Current where I got hooked on the very first day, became a team member, and then moved up to Design Lead and Scales Coordinator for 2025's Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs and this year's 2026 float. I have fun making the blueprints and love how hands on Rose Float is and that it strengthens my problem solving skills which I will take into my future career as a Landscape Architect.

Concealment Lead

Alisson Mora

Majoring in Apparel Merchandising and Manufacturing- Production Emphasis

Hello! I’m a 3rd year student at Cal Poly Pomona! My major is Apparel Merchandising and Management-Production Emphasis. I started in the Rose Float Program by volunteering in the Decorations Department. My first float was Cal Poly's seventy-fifth Rose Float, Shock n' Roll: Powering the Music Current. During this time, I had the amazing opportunity to work with different departments to work on the concealment of the manta ray wings and electric eel necks/fin. Last year, I had the honor to serve as the Concealment Lead for Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. This year I have the privilege of serving as Concealment Lead. After graduation, my hopes are to pursue a career as a Technical Designer in the apparel industry.

Concealment Assistant

Jennifer Hua

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering

Greetings everyone! My name is Jennifer, and I'm a 4th-year mechanical engineering student from Cal Poly Pomona. I'm planning to graduate by 2026 and hoping to pursue a career in either biomedical or vehicle crash testing. Thanks to Rose Float, however, I am also interested in themed entertainment. My hobbies change every season, but for now, I enjoy playing games, working out, listening to music, doing makeup, learning new languages (currently I'm studying German), and making amazing food combinations. I volunteered for two years on the float, the Shock n Roll and Nessie Lakeside Laugh, working in the Design department. This year will be my third year working on the Rose Float and my first year being a part of leadership. My family has a tradition of watching the Rose Parade on TV every New Year, and I fell in love with every float from the design, the movement, to the decoration. So when I found the Rose Float program on orientation day, I knew I had to join. Rose Float encourages me to challenge myself, improve every lab day, and teaches me to become confident in myself. I cannot imagine what my college life would be without Rose Float.

Pod coordinatoR

Bryan Ramillano

Majoring in Computer Engineering

I’m a third-year student at Cal Poly Pomona and have part of this program for the past two years. I first joined as a participant for the 2024 float, Shock N' Roll, and most recently served as the Assistant Pod Coordinator for the 2025 float, Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. As an Assistant Pod Coordinator, I had the opportunity to pass that knowledge that I learned my previous year as a participant—teaching others how fix welding mistakes, avoid the need for burn ointment, and make friends with others in a safe environment. Beyond the growth in skill, the most meaningful part of Rose Float has been the friendships I’ve built with participants, team members, and leadership. As for after graduation, I would like to specialize in creating biomedical devices. Last year, I reached one of my personal goals: building one of the coolest pods imaginable. This year, my goal is to build one that’s even cooler.

Assistant Pod coordinator

Chance Stevens

Majoring in Manufacturing Engineering

Hey everybody! My name is Chance Stevens. I'm from Cupertino and love watching videos, exercising, and playing video games! I'm hoping that after college, I can work as a Themed Engineer at Disney, Universal, or any theme park that allows me to help design any of the rides! I'm a senior in manufacturing engineering attending the Pomona Campus. I started Rose Float in my Sophomore year with Shock and Roll, and primarily worked under the Pod section of design. I returned the next year as a team member and continued working in the Pod for Nessie's Lakeside Laughs. This year, I'm super excited to be returning as the Assistant Pod Coordinator! I'm looking forward to working with all of you!

DECORATIONS CHAIR

Haley Kost

Majoring in Plant Science, Minoring in Landscape Architecture

Hi! My name is Haley, I'm a 4th year at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and I'm so excited to be this year's Decorations Chair. This previous year I had the opportunity to be the assistant chair in my department and work on the float Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. I’m so thankful for how that position and the ones I've held previously prepared me for my final year in the program. As I start looking at life after college, which is getting closer, I'm hoping to go into a career in historical landscape restoration. Outside of Rose Float, I work at a doggy daycare and I enjoy trying new coffeeshops with my roommates. I can’t wait to see what this new float year brings!

DECORATIONS CHAIR

Bailey Beene

Majoring in Landscape Architecture

I’m a fourth-year landscape architecture student at Cal Poly Pomona. I have worked on the floats Road to Reclamation, Shock and Roll; Powering the musical current, and Nessie’s lakeside Laughs. While participating in many Decorations weeks, I have learned valuable skills like time management, organizing large groups, organizing large deliveries, and so much more. Through Rose Float, I’ve gained quality experience in time and project management, leadership qualities, and am open to other the creative processes. Coming from an agricultural background, I have been able to use my knowledge of plants to better understand what would look good on the float in mass amounts. I enjoy the quick paced, creative, unique work environment that this program is at its very core. The creative problem-solving we do in Rose Float has continually been an inspiration that drives my work as a future landscape architect.

Assistant Decorations Chair

Elsa Panning

Majoring in Biological Sciences

I am a third-year biology major from Pasadena, and I am this year's SLO Assistant Decorations Chair. I started as a participant and team member on Shock n' Roll (2024) and served as the SLO Inventory Lead for last year's Nessie's Lakeside Laughs. Outside of float, I play french horn in the Cal Poly and San Luis Obispo community and enjoy watching birds and other animals. I am also an orientation leader. In the future, I hope to continue exploring careers surrounding my many interests within the biological sciences.

Assistant Decorations Chair

Natalie Cano

Majoring in Computer Information Systems

My name is Natalie Cano and I am a 3rd year computer information systems major at Cal Poly Pomona. This is my third year in the program and my second year on the leadership team. I hope to go into the cyber security field. My favorite hobby of mine is dance and I’m part of a folklorico group!

Materials Testing Lead

Kayla Taylor

Majoring in Architecture

Hi! I'm Kayla Taylor, a third-year Architecture major and sustainable environments minor from the San Luis Obispo campus, and I’m excited to be serving as the Materials Testing Lead for this year’s Rose Float team. I love combining creativity with hands-on work, and this role gives me the perfect opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in architecture to a one-of-a-kind project. Last year, I was the Flower Fields Manager, where I helped source and coordinate the natural materials that bring the float to life. This year, I’m focused on making sure all our material aspirations and creative ideas come to life. Being part of Rose Float has helped shape my interest in sustainable design and innovative construction methods—both of which I hope to focus on in my future career as an architect. I’m proud to be part of such an inspiring and collaborative team, and I can’t wait to see what we build together!

Materials Testing Lead

Katia Corletto

Majoring in Music Industry Studies

Hello my name is Katia and I’m a 3rd year at Cal Poly Pomona studying Audio and Sound Engineering. My goal is to one day work for Walt Disney Imagineering or Disney Live Entertainment. This is my second year in leadership and second year in this role and I’m so excited to be back and bring new ideas to the table. Having been part of this program for 3 years now has been such an amazing and eye opening experience. I’m so lucky to be working with such an amazing team and I can’t wait for what’s to come in store!

Assistant Materials Testing Lead

Brittany Andes-McCullough

Majoring in Agribusiness

Brittany is a second-year agribusiness major at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. This is her first year on the leadership team and second year in the program, though her involvement dates back to 2018’s “Dreams Take Flight,” when she began helping decorate Cal Poly’s floats alongside her two older sisters, who were both part of the program during their time at the university. For this year’s float she helped design several of the fish and contributed to many of the intricate details, including placing individual flower petals on Nessie’s tail and pinecone pieces on the beaver tails. She is still exploring what her major has to offer but has a growing interest in accounting.

Assistant Materials Testing Lead

Laura Escalante

Majoring in Psychology

I’m a Senior at Cal Poly Pomona and I’ll be graduating December 2025. After I graduate I hope to go on to graduate school and continue my studies in psychology. My field of interest is social psychology with a focus on social norms and taboos. I hope to eventually have a career in research. My journey at CPRF started this past fall, Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs was my first float. I was drawn to the decorations department from the start and it’s where I’ve thrived. I’m thrilled to be a part of the Decorations Leadership team and to see the 2026 float go from a theme to a concept and be brought to life by everyone at Rose Float.

Flower Fields Manager

Afton Philips

Majoring in Plant Science 

Hello! My name is Afton Phillips, and I am a third year Plant Science major at Cal Poly SLO. This is my third year in the Rose Float program and has been one of my favorite parts about Cal Poly. As part of the decorations team, I really enjoy working in the flower fields in the mornings and working with different natural materials. After graduation, I hope to work in production agriculture to produce vegetable and fruit crops. My favorite part about Cal Poly Rose Float is the friends that have become family throughout my time. If you need to find me, I’m probably having a karaoke session in the Deco room! I look forward to my year of service as the Flower Fields Manager!

Inventory Lead

Michelle Wu

Majoring in Accounting

Hello! My name is Michelle and I’m a junior at Cal Poly Pomona pursuing a bachelor's degree in accounting. My involvement with Cal Poly Rose Float started with the Shock n’ Roll float where I embodied the “Learn by Doing” motto and explored testing different materials to create certain textures and effects. Where I later served as a section lead during Decoration Week and led groups of volunteers to decorate the float. Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs was my second float where I served as the inventory lead during the year, inventorying all the materials and supplies in Decorations, and as the Decorations trailer lead during Decoration week. During my free time, I enjoy watching K/C- dramas, cooking, scrapbooking, building Legos, and watching Studio Ghibli films.

greenhouse manager

Sofia Wetherhold

Majoring in Landscape Architecture

I am a second-year landscape architecture major at Cal Poly SLO. I joined the decorations department after being recruited by the former V.P. Sophia Napier, after discovering that we had the same name and major. For 2025’s Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs float I worked on the beavers and enjoyed helping in the flower tent. I am excited to continue participating in Rose Float as this year’s greenhouse manager and am determined that this will be the year the greenhouse becomes functional again. I am a firm believer that as a second-year, I have not discovered all that landscape architecture has to offer, so I welcome any opportunity to learn more. 

Flower Fields Manager

Anna Wu

Majoring in Civil Engineering

I am a senior student attending Cal Poly Pomona with an interest in structural design and construction management. I've worked 3 floats so far. For 2023’s Road to Reclamation, I learned how to work in a team towards a shared goal. For 2024’s Shock and Roll, I was the flower fields manager, where I learned how to lead a team and communicate with others. For 2025’s Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs, I served as the Decorations Chair, where I learned how to lead a department through deadlines and challenges until we finished with an award-winning float. This year, I return to being the flower fields manager, where I hope to use my previous experience in this area to help innovate it.

greenhouse Assistant

Mia Brown

Majoring in Plant Science

Hi! I am a first year student at Cal Poly SLO. I started as a volunteer for 2023 Road to Reclamation and now I am a part of the Deco team for this year. I hope I can share my love for color theory in float design as well as add my past floral design knowledge. In the future I want to become a professor of plant science and botany. Rose Float helps me expand my leadership and planning skills. My hobbies outside of Rose Float and school are crochet, video games and checking out new and unique plants. I had a lot of fun last year, and enjoyed meeting so many great people. I am honored and thrilled to continue into 2025.

Assistant Flower Fields

Ashley Coronel

Majoring in Chemical Engineering

My name is Ashley Coronel, and I am a second-year student pursuing a major in Chemical Engineering and a minor in Materials Engineering at Cal Poly Pomona; I hope to pursue a career in the pharmaceuticals industry, to develop and innovate our current medical technology. This is my second year participating in the program, and I am currently serving as the Assistant Flower Fields Manager in the Decorations Department ensuring our floral inventory is sufficient. Outside of Cal Poly Rose Float, I am heavily involved in other clubs such as the CPP chapters of AIChE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers) and ISPE (International Society of Pharmaceutical Engineers). Additionally, I enjoy making random designs on SOLIDWORKS and exploring beaches all over California.

OPERATIONS CHAIR

Lorenzo Cano

Majoring in City and Regional Planning

My name is Lorenzo Cano and I am a Junior at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, majoring in City and Regional Planning. I am from Pomona, California. Currently, I serve as Operations Chair and am really excited to lead the future of the department. For my career, I hope to work as a city planner in a major city here or abroad, and guide the construction of equitable transit routes for all, and housing to provide for all. As for my personal hobbies, I love basketball, soul music, all things rap and hip-hop as well as fashion, particularly from the 60s-80s. I am really looking forward to this year!

OPERATIONS CHAIR

Joseph Mendoza

Majoring in Plant Science

Hello! My name is Joseph Mendoza, I am a third year Plant Science major at Cal Poly Pomona. I have been committed to the Operations department since my first lab day as a 2023 participant during the construction of Shock N’ Roll. What excites me most about my position as Pomona Operations Chair is the opportunity to be a resource to the entirety of our leadership team. I consider it to be my responsibility not only to oversee, but, more importantly, to enable the efforts of Operations leadership! My time working at the University Library has brought me to consider a future in librarianship, but I am also eager to apply my major in the field of plant breeding.

Assistant operations Chair

Chelsie Vasquez Salazar

Majoring in Hospitality Management

Howdy! I'm Chelsie Vasquez Salazar, and I'm super excited to be serving as the Operations Department Assistant Chair this year! Currently studying at The Collins College of Hospitality Management at Cal Poly Pomona, I aim to graduate with my bachelor’s degree in Spring 2026! I first joined Cal Poly Rose Float during last year’s float, Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs, and it was such a fun and memorable experience. As a first-year transfer student, it really helped me find a sense of community on campus. That year I worked in the Operations Department, mainly supporting hospitality and special events, and I loved every minute of it! I’m looking forward to stepping into a leadership role this year, doing my part in helping the program grow, and making more amazing memories with the team. My ultimate career goal is to become a Department Director—and one day, a General Manager—at a hotel or event company in the hospitality industry!

Hospitality Coordinator

Jacqueline Ingenito

Majoring in Hospitality Management

I am a second-year student at Cal Poly Pomona. I joined the Cal Poly Rose Float team last year as a participant in Operations, specifically focusing on hospitality, and later became a team member. In the future, I aspire to become a pastry chef and own my own pastry shop. Outside of school and Rose Float, I love hiking, traveling, and exploring new places — especially when it comes to trying new foods and pastries. I also enjoy baking and planning meals, which are a big part of what I want to do in the future. You can connect with me on LinkedIn:

Assistant Hospitality Coordinator

Melissa Olivares

Majoring in Technology and Operations Management (TOM)

Hello! My name is Melissa Michelle Olivares, and I’m a rising senior majoring in Technology and Operations Management at Cal Poly Pomona. I’ve been part of the Rose Float team for a year in the Operations department and am now excited to continue into my second year. When I’m not at Rose Float, I'm playing for the Cal Poly Pomona Women’s Soccer Club, leading the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, or working my part-time job with my dad. Rose Float is one of those unique programs where you truly can have a home away from home and I’m so proud to contribute to such a unique tradition and very excited to apply what I’ve learned as I pursue a career in operations.

Social Media/Marketing Coordinator

Kyle Tre Reynaldo

Majoring in Marketing

Hello. I am Kyle Reynaldo, a marketing major. This upcoming float season marks my third year at Cal Poly Pomona. This most recent Rose Float season was my first year there. During that time, I assisted the construction and design teams with welding while taking a more major role in the operations, with a lot of focus and effort placed on the program's photography and social media. Here is where you can learn more about what I'm up to!

Merchandise Coordinator

Ki’ilani Versoza

Majoring in Psychology

My name is Ki'ilani Versoza. I am a third year here at Cal Poly Pomona as an Industrial Psychology major, I started out as a participant/team member in the 75th anniversary year of Shock N' Roll, then became the merchandise coordinator for last year, Nessie Lakeside Laughs, and am continuing that role for this year. I love seeing how the business world operates, and I want to see the ins and outs from a business perspective, as I am currently working as a campus manager at Fresh Prints.

Assistant MerchandisE Coordinator

Allyson Lee

Majoring in Civil Engineering

I’m a 4th year student at Cal Poly Pomona studying Civil Engineering. My first float was Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs in 2025, and this year will be my second float. I originally started in the design department, however, this year I’ve moved into the operations department as Assistant Merchandise Coordinator! I’ve gotten to learn a lot more about teamwork and communication skills in my time in the Rose Float program and I’m looking forward to future experiences! I aspire to become a structural or construction engineer, so this program is the perfect learning opportunity for me!!

Graphic Artist coordinator

John Pham

Majoring in Mechanical Engineering, Minoring in Materials Engineering

I’m a senior at Cal Poly Pomona and began in the Construction department, where I worked on a mechanism for 2023’s Road to Reclamation. I stepped up as Mechanism Lead for 2024’s Shock N’ Roll, then joined the Operations department as Graphic Artist Coordinator for 2025’s Nessie’s Lakeside Laughs. Cal Poly Rose Float has been such a fun and unique way to practice and hone my skillsets, while growing as an engineer, designer, and leader. It’s given me valuable experience in a fast-paced, creative space, and I hope to find something just as exciting and rewarding in my future career. This year, I’m thrilled to be back as both the Graphic Artist Coordinator and Rendering Artist for the 2026 float!