Sponsored Programs Office

Supporting the pursuit and administration of external funding to strengthen research, scholarship and creative activity.

A staff member opens the door to the Sponsored Programs Office while holding a CSUMB Sponsored Programs folder and smiling.

Building Knowledge through Funded Projects

The Sponsored Programs Office (SPO) supports the development and administration of externally funded research, scholarship and creative activity at Cal State Monterey Bay. Working closely with faculty, staff and academic leadership, SPO provides guidance on public and private funding opportunities, proposal preparation, internal/external compliance requirements and some award management. Through this work, SPO plays a key role in advancing the university’s mission by securing resources that expand knowledge, foster innovation and strengthen student success.

SPO focuses on pre-award services for grants and contracts funded by federal, state, private and local agencies. SPO coordinates internal funding programs, such as the CSU Research, Scholarship & Creative Activity (RSCA) competition. Through collaborative partnerships and professional expertise, SPO helps ensure that sponsored projects are developed, reviewed and implemented in alignment with sponsor guidelines and institutional policies.

External grants are awarded to and administered by the University Corporation at Monterey Bay.

Proposal Development and Resources

Successful proposals begin with a clear vision and careful planning. From developing ideas and finding funding to meeting requirements and telling a strong story, each step contributes to a compelling submission. With the right preparation and support, proposals can lead to impactful research, creative projects and community partnerships.

Four CSUMB staff members collaborate in a meeting room with a digital display showing a flowchart of university functions. One person points at the screen while others smile and interact around a laptop.

Submitting Proposals and Managing Awards

Coordinating external funding involves more than submitting proposals. It includes identifying opportunities, preparing strong applications, managing awards and meeting reporting requirements. With clear guidance, reliable systems and strong collaboration, faculty and staff can navigate each stage with confidence and success.

Two staff members stand outside the Sponsored Programs Office entrance, chatting and smiling while holding CSUMB-branded folders.

Forms and Policies

Forms and resources are available to help faculty, staff and students prepare budgets, route proposals, manage personnel and payroll and track travel and purchasing. Clear policies provide the framework for meeting institutional and sponsor requirements. Together, these tools support effective project management, compliance and accountability.

Two team members review documents at a round table, seated in front of a colorful mural. One points at the paper while the other smiles.

Compliance

At Cal State Monterey Bay, research is grounded in integrity, responsibility and high ethical standards. Compliance ensures protection for participants, humane care of animals and public trust. Through clear policies, engaging training and faculty-led oversight, the campus research community is supported in conducting safe and accountable work.

Three team members stand inside the Sponsored Programs office near decorated cubicles, chatting casually under a CSUMB pennant.

Professional Staff

Cindy Lopez

Cindy Lopez

Director, Sponsored Programs

Gayle Sherwood

Gayle Sherwood

Assistant Director, Sponsored Programs

Peggy Rueda

Peggy Rueda

Research and Sponsored Programs Professional

Shakti Smith

Shakti Smith

Sponsored Programs Officer

Two staff members chat and smile in front of the California State University Monterey Bay seal inside the Sponsored Programs office.

Guidance Starts Here

Expert support is available at every stage of your project, from planning to implementation.

Access Resources

Reach out for help with funding, proposals or awards.

Contact

Sponsored Programs Office