An increase in applications, the Cal Poly Pomona Foundation's biennial report and homecoming top the president's weekly video update.

More than 32,400 students applied to enter Cal Poly Pomona as first-time freshmen for the upcoming academic year. That's a 4.2 percent increase over last year and 16.1 percent increase over two years. It also outpaces the CSU system average, which increased 2.8 percent.

Transfer applications increased 13.2 percent over last year and 38 percent over two years. The university has the second highest transfer application increase in the CSU.

Meanwhile, the foundation released its biennial report. The foundation provides housing and dining services and oversees the university's technology park, bookstore, conference center and hotel. It is also one of the university's biggest donors.

Homecoming is Feb. 7-8, and it presents an opportunity for Broncos past and present to come together, reconnect and have fun. There are plenty of free activities, including a concert by singer-songwriter Andy Grammer. This week is the last chance to purchase Homecoming wristbands for a discounted rate to gain access to many activities. For more information, visit the Homecoming website.

In other news:

• The Alumni Association is expanding its annual awards program to recognize faculty. The association is asking students to nominate current faculty who are making a difference. Nominations are due Feb. 7. The inaugural recipient will be honored at the Distinguished Alumni Awards in April. Visit Alumni Affairs to learn more.
• The first 1,000 people to visit the Alumni Association booth at Homecoming on Saturday, Feb. 8, will be able to make their own custom sunglasses in Bronco green and gold.
• This past weekend, more than 1,000 people attended the Kellogg Honors College's annual Showcase of Excellence. Prospective students met with faculty, advisors and current honors students. President Ortiz thanked Professor Suketu Bhavsar and the honors college faculty, staff and students for putting on the event.
• Nobel Peace Prize winner Rigoberta Menchu Tum will speak Thursday evening as part of the Kellogg Distinguished Public Lecture Series.

To read the entire video message, download a PDF of the transcript.