Farm Store Undergoes Changes

The Cal Poly Pomona Farm Store has undergone a changing of the guard.

Longtime manager Dawn Taccone retired in January after 16 years at the helm.

During her tenure, she oversaw the store’s operation, which also included regularly participating in several farmers’ markets around Southern California. She also helped plant the college’s Pumpkin Festival and Strawberry Festival until 2015.

Prior to joining the Farm Store, Taccone was an instructor at The Collins College of Hospitality Management, teaching a class about front-of-house operations. She continued her teaching role until Cal Poly Pomona converted to the semester system.

Assistant Manager Bri Cox (’16, business) was promoted to the manager’s post.

In her place, Cal Poly Pomona Enterprises hired Holly Jackson as the new assistant manager for the store. Jackson comes to the Farm Store after working at T.J. Maxx and Bed Bath & Beyond.

Previously, Shonnie Crane, the store's account specialist, retired in December 2023 after nearly 14 years at the store. Crane was responsible for the store’s bookkeeping and accounts payable.

Angie Stark was hired as the new accounts specialist to replace Crane. Previously, she worked for the San Bernardino County auditor-controller/treasurer/tax collector’s office.