California State University, Long Beach

12/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/15/2025 14:05

2025 in Review: CSULB’s top stories of the year

With the end of 2025 approaching, we reflect on the accomplishments and memorable moments that defined Cal State Long Beach this year. From inspiring student successes to national rankings, this year's stories remind us of the power and resilience of the Beach spirit.

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Wall Street Journal ranking places CSULB in the top 50 of U.S. institutions

CSULB joined the top 50 on the Wall Street Journal and College Pulse's 2026 "Best Colleges in America" list. This ranking focuses on how well colleges and universities prepare students for financial success as well as other factors.

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CSULB Pow Wow brings Native American communities together

The 52nd CSULB Pow Wow had a new location this year at the intramural rugby and soccer fields on lower campus. Dancers, singers, vendors and observers gathered in celebration, prayer and unity.

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Richard Carpenter returns to The Beach, reminisces about where it all started

Richard Carpenter, Beach alumnus and part of the Grammy-award winning duo The Carpenters, is well known for his successful musical career. Ahead of his campus return, he shared some of his favorite memories in a special Q&A.

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Twin brothers-turned-teachers prove power of Long Beach College Promise

With help from the Long Beach College Promise, twins Markel and Martel Cooper '19 earned degrees in kinesiology and graduated with honors. Today, they are back at The Beach pursuing their master's degrees.

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'Happiest chef on Earth': How a CSULB grad is shaping Disneyland's food and sustainability efforts

Toby Hollis '05 credits CSULB for transforming him from a theme park line cook to a chef who understands how to prepare food and run a kitchen. Today, he creates unforgettable, magical experiences for Disneyland guests.

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Meet the team who brought the championship back to CSULB's 'Volleyball Nation'

After overcoming obstacles, the Long Beach State's Men's Volleyball team won the 2025 National Championship and returned for campus and local celebrations. This was their third national championship in the last seven seasons.

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CSULB to introduce a Doctor of Public Health degree in fall 2025

The university announced its Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree, which launched in fall 2025. This is the fifth doctoral program at The Beach.

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CSULB's corpse flower, known as Phil, raises a stink during its third bloom

Corpse flower Phil bloomed for the third time on June 18. When a corpse flower blooms, it emits the smell of decaying flesh. Phil's name comes from CSULB Professor Emeritus Philip Baker.

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Ranked No. 3 in aerospace and fueled by new grant, CSULB equips engineers for space race

For decades, CSULB engineering grads have powered Long Beach's aerospace rise. With the College of Engineering's $15 million redesign, students will work with industry-grade tools and receive training for high-demand roles.

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5 remarkable 'classrooms' you might not know exist at CSULB

From a Hollywood-style Foley studio to rooftop stargazing, five can't-miss "classrooms" make learning unforgettable for students at The Beach.

California State University, Long Beach published this content on December 15, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on December 15, 2025 at 20:05 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]