# University Graphic Systems

> University Graphic Systems is a student-managed print and design enterprise inside Cal Poly's Graphic Communication Department. It serves students, faculty, campus departments and local clients with everyday printing, wide-format graphics, stickers, apparel decoration, binding, design and event activations - while turning real estimates, deadlines, machines and customer expectations into the curriculum.

- **Founded:** 1968
- **Headquarters:** San Luis Obispo, United States
- **Products:** Paper printing, Wide-format printing, Adhesive printing, Specialty printing, Binding and finishing
- **Notable:** Has operated as part of Cal Poly's Graphic Communication educational program since 1968., Runs with a team of ten student managers supported by a faculty adviser and full-time technician., Is listed by Cal Poly procurement as an on-campus preferred printing supplier.

## Products & services

- **Paper printing** — Flat sheets, flyers, posters, folded pieces, business cards and other everyday print work.
- **Wide-format printing** — Paper banners and posters up to 40 inches wide and 100 feet long; listed at $6 per square foot.
- **Adhesive printing** — Custom and die-cut stickers, window decals, door and stair wraps, and large-format vinyl graphics.
- **Specialty printing** — Screen printing, direct-to-film apparel graphics and dye-sublimated mugs and shot glasses.
- **Binding and finishing** — Saddle stitch, spiral, Wire-O and perfect binding, plus lamination, cutting and folding.
- **Design services** — Print-ready design, social graphics, web elements and file editing; design time is listed at $35 per hour.
- **Interactive print events** — On-site screen-printing and merchandise activities for campus groups and events, typically listed around $10 to $15 per person.

## Achievements

- Has operated as part of Cal Poly's Graphic Communication educational program since 1968.
- Runs with a team of ten student managers supported by a faculty adviser and full-time technician.
- Is listed by Cal Poly procurement as an on-campus preferred printing supplier.
- Produced directional and distancing signage for campus buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Has produced Mustang News, commencement booklets, annual reports and multiple student publications.
- Maintains Forest Stewardship Council certification according to Cal Poly's procurement and department pages.

## Latest updates

- **2026-07** — The 2026-27 student leadership cycle began, with Reece John publicly announcing his role as general manager and a team of nine other managers.
- **2026-03** — UGS's current services menu presents paper, adhesive and specialty printing, design support, finishing and hands-on campus events with public baseline pricing.
- **2020-09** — Cal Poly documented UGS's pivot into pandemic safety signage, new equipment use and a digital storefront for remote ordering.

## Links

- Website: https://www.ugs.calpoly.edu/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/university-graphic-systems
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calpolyugs/

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Last updated: 2026-09-24