For David Tyler (‘83, English, Philosophy), giving back to Cal Poly Humboldt has always been about showing up—consistently, thoughtfully, and with heart.
Since 2007, Tyler has given generously to multiple areas across campus. Some gifts have been large, others small, but all have been meaningful. Over the past 18 years, Tyler has supported the Department of Philosophy, the Library, Toyon magazine, the Department of English, and even helped fund student tickets to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. It’s a record of giving defined by a deep connection to the University that helped shape the person he became.
Tyler didn’t set out to attend Humboldt. In high school, he dreamed of UCLA, but after being waitlisted, he visited Humboldt during a summer college tour with his family. Coming from El Centro—near San Diego, where August heat regularly topped 110 degrees—he found the cool mist and towering redwoods of Arcata a refreshing contrast. He was sold.
“I remember thinking, ‘This is kind of nice,’” he says.
Initially enrolling as an English major, Tyler soon discovered a love for philosophy and graduated with degrees in both disciplines. Those formative years laid the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of learning, introspection, and curiosity.
Tyler fondly remembers the small class sizes and the personal attention from faculty.
“In some classes, we had eight students. You couldn’t hide,” Tyler says. One professor in particular, Philosophy Professor Clarence Howe, left a lasting impression. Howe’s intellectual rigor and Columbia University background influenced Tyler’s decision to pursue graduate studies at Columbia, where he earned a master’s degree in Library Science.
Another enduring influence came from Art History Professor Ron Johnson. Tyler took several classes with him and developed a deep, lifelong passion for art. To this day, visiting museums is one of Tyler’s favorite pastimes, and it all started at Humboldt.
Tyler gives to make students feel seen, encouraged, and appreciated. “If a student gets a little scholarship or some funding to go to a conference, maybe that’s the thing that helps them feel confident about what they’re doing,” he says.
He especially enjoys giving to areas that had personal meaning to him, like Toyon, which published one of his short stories, and the Library, which he describes as a haven for quiet study and exploration. He loved the open stacks, browsing through books and feeling connected to the intellectual life of the campus. “It inspired me to go to library school,” he says.
Now living in Ashland, Oregon—home of the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival—Tyler and his wife, Joan, support Humboldt English students who travel to Ashland to experience live theatre as part of their coursework. Though he never attended as a student, he sees immense value in the festival.
“It’s a chance for students to get out, to experience something new and cultural,” Tyler says. “If I can help make that trip possible, that feels worthwhile.”
Tyler likens his life journey to cooking. For him, Humboldt added a rich layer—intellectual stimulation, natural beauty, lasting friendships, and foundational values.
“Every phase of your life adds flavor—high school, college, graduate school, your first job. You can’t skip ingredients.”
His giving reflects that same philosophy. It’s not about one grand gesture. It’s about contributing ingredients over time, adding flavor, depth, and meaning to the University and its students.
Tyler’s story is proof that consistency matters. That all sizes of gifts can fund big dreams. And that staying connected to your roots is a powerful act of gratitude.
Make a meaningful impact on campus by supporting the area you're passionate about at giving.humboldt.edu/our-funds.
David and Joan Tyler have passionately supported Cal Poly Humboldt for the past 20 years, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to uplifting education and community.