Arthur 'Art' Gilbert Covarrubias Sr., who worked at Cal Poly Pomona for 49 years in roles including director of university admissions, died on June 9. He was 79.

In addition to his many years of service at Cal Poly Pomona, where he was awarded Emeritus Status at his retirement ceremony in November of 2019, Covarrubias ('70, history and social sciences) was an alumnus of the university.

Covarrubias most recently served as tutorial services specialist for the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

In college in the late 1960's, he was one of 13 American students to spend three months representing the United States in 10 different European countries as part of the "Good Neighbors Abroad" program.

In addition to a love of traveling abroad with his wife and spending time with family, Covarrubias had a lifelong passion for helping Chicano students - a passion that drove his years of service in the EOP program.

"Art was a true student advocate - he would often go above and beyond to assist students in their educational and personal journey," said Leticia Guzman Scott, executive director of student support and equity programs. "He was someone they often turned to for advice, motivation, and the push they needed to get through their struggles as they navigated the university and beyond.

"His legacy will carry on with those he assisted throughout his many years at CPP, and I know they will continue to be successful in honor of his memory," she added.

Covarrubias is survived by his wife of 50 years, Criselda, his sons, Arthur Jr. and Erik, his daughters-in-law Buffy and Dara, and his two granddaughters.

A memorial service is scheduled for 4 p.m., on June 17 at Todd Memorial Chapel in Claremont, as well as a mass at 10 a.m., on June 18 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Upland.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Covarrubias' legacy and passion for student advocacy can donate to an EOP scholarship fund that assists students from underserved communities by clicking here.