Commencement for the Class of 2024

May 15, 2024 - 12:49 p.m.

With the support of thousands of families, the campus community and local partners, Cal Poly Humboldt celebrated the Class of 2024.

See more at humboldt.edu/emergency.

Leadership Studies Student Spotlight: Leah Brazil

Leah Brazil

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised on the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation and am a Hoopa Tribal member. I currently live in McKinleyville with my three young kids and three cats.

I landed in public service by complete accident – it was never something I had set out to do – but somehow I found myself in it, and loving it. I have been working at the Arcata Police Department for the last 16 years, I started as a police dispatcher, then tried my hand at evidence technician and dispatch supervisor, and am now serving as the police business manager. I enjoy the day-to-day challenge that comes with public service, and the ability to serve the community. 

After high school, I left Hoopa to attend Sonoma State University, but life got in the way, and after two years I returned to Humboldt County. After that, life was busy and between work and family, I put off completing my degree for far too long. The Leadership Studies program has been a great fit for my busy life, and I have really enjoyed the first semester of the program, and am looking forward to continuing on in the next few semesters with my cohort.