This transformational investment— the largest single cash gift in University history—marks a significant milestone for Cal Poly Humboldt, reflecting its leading expertise in cannabis research and education. The endowed professorship will support a permanent faculty position in Cannabis Studies to attract top scholars and ensure the continuity of critical research in a rapidly evolving policy landscape. The University will launch a national search this fall to fill this important role.

“This generous gift speaks to how closely the University is tied to our region. Our experts are not only scholars but also thought leaders, approaching this field with rigor and purpose to illuminate complex and timely issues we as a society face today,” says Cal Poly Humboldt President Richard Carvajal, who announced the professorship at the 3rd Annual Cannabis & Environmental Stewardship Symposium at the University on Friday.  

The Campbell Foundation’s gift stems from an interest in supporting collaborations between the cannabis industry, community groups, and environmental advocates, with a focus on equity, responsible cultivation, watershed health, and sustainable agriculture. 

“The ripple effects from this financial commitment are exciting to think about,” says Samantha Campbell, president of The Campbell Foundation. “We are interested in supporting explorations into the many facets of this agricultural product, and its place in the history, economy, and ecology of our remarkable California landscape.”

The gift was inspired by a desire to sustain the important work of Cal Poly Humboldt’s Cannabis Studies program, which focuses on social and environmental responsibility, and explores the historical, geographical, cultural, economic, and political contexts of cannabis legalization. 

“The Campbell Foundation gift is transformational for the program, University, and community,” says Josh Meisel, professor of Sociology and Cannabis Studies program leader. “The endowment anchors and stabilizes this nationally innovative program, which includes a Humboldt signature focus on the environment. The Cannabis Studies Lab embeds robust polytechnic student research opportunities in faculty research.”

Cannabis Studies engages interdisciplinary research questions across environmental science, agriculture, natural resources, policy, and social sciences. The new endowed professorship will strengthen related collaborations, support program growth, and expand opportunities for students and faculty research.

The Campbell Foundation also supports the University’s Annual Cannabis & Environmental Stewardship Symposium, which brings together diverse stakeholders to address opportunities and challenges in sustainable cannabis practices. [More details about the 3rd Annual Cannabis & Environmental Stewardship Symposium]

With this historic gift, Cal Poly Humboldt continues to advance its polytechnic vision—supporting student success, strengthening applied research, and addressing complex challenges that shape California and beyond.

About The Campbell Foundation
Driven by the philosophy that collaboration enables change, The Campbell Foundation supports organizations in their work to create more equitable and livable communities. Established by Keith Campbell in 1998 to improve the conditions of the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays, its focus expanded in 2003 to include issues impacting California’s watershed regions. Today, under the leadership of Foundation president and Keith’s daughter, Samantha Campbell, The Campbell Foundation offers a broad range of grants, including unsolicited, multi-year, general support, and capacity building.