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Following a comprehensive national recruitment Cal Poly welcomed Robert Plastino as the university’s next chief of police with a swearing-in ceremony on July 25.



This hire comes after George Hughes was promoted to associate vice president, Public Safety in the summer of 2024, a role which oversees the police departments at both Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Solano Campus, as well as the university’s Transportation and Parking Services and Department of Emergency Services.



Plastino brings more than 27 years of experience with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s office. In that time, he was in charge of executive management of the department’s north county and south county operations where he oversaw more than 250 sworn and non-sworn staff, as well as criminal investigations.



His experience also includes years of working collaboratively with UC Santa Barbara administration and student populations as well as close community relations with Isla Vista residents.&nbsp;



Plastino holds a Master of Public Administration degree and a Bachelor of Science in business administration, demonstrating his commitment to continued learning and professional development.



“I couldn’t be more excited to join the Cal Poly community and continue to build on the great work that the department has been doing to foster a culture of excellence, accountability and integrity,” Plastino said. “As we head into a new academic year, we will recommit to teamwork, cross campus collaboration and constant innovation so we can continue to grow trust in our community and increase support on campus.”



Valuing teamwork, collaboration and innovation, Plastino plans to continue the department’s work fostering a culture of excellence, accountability and integrity.



Cal Poly Public Safety would like to extend its gratitude to Bryan Cox for his dedication as interim chief over the past eight months, as well as to the search committee and campus stakeholders for their work and input in this important decision.

California State University police chief stands at a podium with one hand raised, taking the oath of office from another uniformed officer beside an American flag.

Tag: Police

Cal Poly Welcomes New Police Chief