NASA Astronaut Victor Glover Returns to Cal Poly to Lead Strategic Initiatives and Innovation
Cal Poly, a top-ranked public university, has welcomed back alum Victor Glover, a retired U.S. Navy captain and NASA astronaut, to take on a full-time administrative leadership role starting on September 1. Glover's focus will be on strategic initiatives, partnerships, and philanthropy to position Cal Poly as a global leader in polytechnic education, research innovation, and workforce development.
In his new position, Glover will collaborate with university leaders to shape long-term strategies that enhance Cal Poly's leadership in engineering, applied computing, aerospace, aviation, maritime, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, autonomous systems, and national defense. He will also serve as an ambassador for the university, engaging in strategic events and promoting STEM disciplines to inspire future generations of students.
As a 1999 engineering graduate of Cal Poly, Glover credits his Learn by Doing education and student-athlete experience in wrestling and football for his successful career as a Navy fighter pilot, legislative fellow, and NASA astronaut. President Jeffrey D. Armstrong expressed excitement about Glover's return, highlighting their shared vision of continuing the university's legacy of producing innovative leaders through Learn by Doing.
Glover's impressive space exploration achievements, including piloting SpaceX's Crew Dragon, living on the International Space Station, and orbiting the moon on Artemis II, have captivated the nation. His family's strong ties to Cal Poly, with his wife and daughters being alumni or current students, further deepen his connection to the university.
Cal Poly, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is renowned for its Learn by Doing philosophy and is part of the California State University system. To stay updated on Cal Poly news and stories, subscribe to the Cal Poly News Recap newsletter for more inspiring Learn by Doing narratives.