Dear Pomona College Community,
I hope your last days of the semester are going well. I am writing to share an important update on the Center for Global Engagement (CGE) as we move our transformative initiative forward. Over the past year, teams across campus have been working together to ensure a thoughtful transition that maintains the vitality of academic programming currently housed in the Oldenborg Center for Modern Languages and International Relations and the International and Domestic Programs Office (IDPO).
Project Timeline
As shared in earlier communication, the CGE project will go before the Board of Trustees for final construction approval in May 2026. If approved, demolition of the current Oldenborg facility and site preparation for major construction will begin shortly thereafter. We anticipate a two-year construction period and the new CGE opening in Fall 2028.
Program Continuity
I am happy to convey that after careful planning by multiple teams across campus, all Oldenborg and IDPO programming will continue fully during the transition period from Fall 2026 to Spring 2028.
- Daily language tables will take place in the Frank Blue Room
- Language immersion residence halls will be housed in Lawry Court
- Language Residents will live in, and programming will take place at, 1105 College Avenue
- Conversation classes will continue in Mason Hall
- Study breaks and cultural learning hosted by Oldenborg and the Language Residents will continue across campus
- IDPO study away advising will take place in Montgomery Hall
Office Space
All Oldenborg programming and IDPO study away advising will take place in their regular location through spring semester. Beginning in March, however, Oldenborg and IDPO staff will relocate to Montgomery Hall.
In Progress
We are actively working on plans for
- Scheduling and location of the Oldenborg Luncheon Colloquia
- Relocating activities traditionally held in the Frank Blue Room
More details will be shared once arrangements for these initiatives are finalized.
Looking Ahead
This is an exciting moment for Pomona. The CGE represents our commitment to global and interdisciplinary learning as integral to the liberal arts. I am energized by the collaboration that is making this vision a reality. In the coming months, you will hear more from my office, the Global Pomona Council, Facilities and Campus Services, Housing and Residential Life, and College leadership.
Learn More
For additional information and updates, see
- Global Pomona strategic plan
- Center for Global Engagement overview
- CGE and Housing & Residential Life
- September campus update
Please reach out with any questions. Thank you for your engagement and support as we work together to strengthen Pomona’s mission and strategic vision.
Warmly,
Kara Godwin
Assistant Vice President and Chief Global Officer
Brent Carbajal
Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College