What is Mustang Media Fest?

Expanding the footprint of the journalism department’s signature events – the biennial Jim Hayes Symposium and Hall of Fame Gala – Mustang Media Fest offers additional programming specifically designed for current journalism students. This will include thought-provoking career panels, workshops, hands-on media showcases and networking experiences.

When is it happening?

Mustang Media Fest will take place October 22-25, 2025, in San Luis Obispo. The four-day event is oriented toward both students and alumni. The first two days focus on current students with sessions led by alumni and other industry leaders. Day three will feature the Jim Hayes Keynote and Sound Garden networking concert, followed by the Hall of Fame Gala on day four. A more detailed schedule will be provided in the lead-up to the event. 

What about Jim Hayes?

The spirit of the Jim Hayes Symposium lives on through the Jim Hayes Keynote event. The symposium was conceived in 2014 as a tribute to a beloved journalism professor. It has always been a forum where media leaders talk of courage, truth and enduring values. That tradition continues this year with presentations from two distinguished alumni at the keynote event. 

Why change the name? 

The Jim Hayes Symposium has grown and transformed over the years—starting as a full day of featured speakers, shifting to a panel discussion and now shining a spotlight on two dynamic speakers. Today, we call them keynotes—a name that better captures the spirit of the event and reflects the journalism department’s vision for the future.

At the same time, Mustang Media Fest continues to celebrate tradition while showcasing the program’s exciting growth and innovation.

I’m not a current student. What events can I attend? 

While programming on Wednesday and Thursday is designed specifically for current students, Friday and Saturday events are intended for alumni, community members and students. Friday's program includes the Jim Hayes Keynote in the morning and the Sound Garden in the evening. Saturday's program is the Hall of Fame Gala in the evening.

Can alumni attend the workshops on Wednesday and Thursday? 

Yes! Alumni can serve as mentors, in networking sessions, as last-minute additions to resume reviews, etc. or even as attendees. If you’re interested in leading a session, contact Brady at bteufel@calpoly.edu. While non-students don’t need to register in advance for the student-centered programming, anyone may review the sessions on our event app at MustangMediaFest2025.Sched.com.

Can any student attend?

Absolutely! All majors are welcome. Whether you’re into storytelling, media innovation,  newsgathering or public relations, there’s something for everyone. Non-journalism students are encouraged to request the registration link on our event app MustangMediaFest2025.Sched.com. 

How much does attending Mustang Media Fest cost?

MMF student sessions and Jim Hayes Keynote are free, but because space is limited, we ask non-students to register for a Jim Hayes Keynote ticket on our Eventbrite page so we know how many people to expect.

However, the Sound Garden and Hall of Fame Gala do have costs. Tickets for the Sound Garden will be available at the door of the venue. The Hall of Fame Gala dinner at the Embassy Suites can be purchased on our Eventbrite ticketing page. Seating is limited so please reserve your spot before October 1.

What can I expect from the Sound Garden event on Friday night?

This event will take place at Libertine Brewing Company in downtown San Luis Obispo from 6-10 p.m. A collaboration between Mustang Media Fest and KCPR-FM, the event will feature live music, food for purchase and opportunities to catch up and connect with fellow alumni, students, faculty and staff. Tickets can be purchased at the door of the venue.

Are there any incentives for students to attend more sessions?

Yes! Students attending multiple sessions and participating in activities like the scavenger hunt will earn prizes such as Mustang Media Fest merch, gift cards and Cal Poly swag.

Is there a dress code?

Attendees are encouraged to dress in business casual attire Wednesday through Friday. At Saturday’s Hall of Fame Gala, attendees are encouraged to wear semi-formal attire.

Is there any event for alumni to casually meet up? 

Yes! On Thursday evening, the day before the Jim Hayes Keynote, we will be reserving a restaurant for a no-host dinner. We just ask that you RSVP here so we have a headcount for the restaurant (location TBD).

Can I get a recap of all the information?

• Day 1 - Wednesday, October 22 

  • Current student-focused sessions 

    • 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. (50-minute sessions starting at 10 minutes after the hour)

    • Location: Building 26 on Cal Poly campus

    • Students must register on Sched.com

    • Non-students do not need to register

• Day 2 - Thursday, October 23

  • Current student-focused sessions 

    • 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. (50-minute sessions starting at 10 minutes after the hour)

    • Location: Building 26 on Cal Poly campus

    • Students must register on Sched.com

    • Non-students do not need to register

  • Alumni dinner reservation 

    • 6 p.m.

    • Location TBD

    • Please RSVP on Eventbrite

• Day 3 - Friday, October 24

  • Jim Hayes Keynote 

    • 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

    • Location: Fisher Science Hall (33), Room 286

    • Students register on Sched.com

    • Non-students, please RSVP on Eventbrite

  • Sound Garden Networking Concert 

    • 6 - 10 p.m.

    • Location: The Libertine

    • Tickets will be available at the door

• Day 4 - Saturday, October 25

  • Hall of Fame Gala

    • 5 - 7 p.m. Light reception and silent auction

    • 7 - 9 p.m. Dinner, awards ceremony, speeches

    • Location: Embassy Suites in San Luis Obispo

    • Tickets are required via Eventbrite
      
      

Maps are available on our website.