East Ventura News

Hope Gonzalez, a 20-year-old business administration student at California Lutheran University, has made significant strides in her academic and entrepreneurial journey. She is an award-winning entrepreneur, philanthropist, and content creator, recognized for her environmentally conscious company, SPF805. Gonzalez's achievements include receiving the Green Business Award from the Pacific Coast Business Times at their Spirit of Small Business Awards gala.

Gonzalez was accompanied by her family at the event and was surprised to see Cal Lutheran's interim president John Nunes and other university administrators in attendance. "It was unbelievable," she said. "I was the only student there, and they all came."

Mike Panesis, professor and executive director of Cal Lutheran’s Steven Dorfman Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, emphasized the university's commitment to its students. “What sets Cal Lutheran apart is that we treat our students and their families as if they were our own,” he stated.

Gonzalez has been committed to her educational path since high school, aiming to complete both her bachelor's and master's degrees in four years. Her choice of Cal Lutheran was influenced by her brother's successful experience at the university.

Her company, SPF805, focuses on ocean-inspired designs and contributes to marine life preservation efforts. The brand has donated thousands of dollars to projects like a Maui water-quality initiative and the Ventura County Surfrider Foundation.

Gonzalez's passion for environmentalism began during family trips to Maui where she observed coral reef degradation. Inspired by this experience and the documentary "Chasing Coral," she founded SPF805 with a mission for greater good.

In addition to running SPF805, Gonzalez works as a social media content specialist for Moterra Campervans and serves as a brand ambassador for poppi soda. Her dedication extends into her studies at Cal Lutheran where she excels academically.

“Hope is an exceptional student,” Panesis remarked. “She regularly completes assignments ahead of schedule with very high quality.” Gonzalez also won several awards at the New Venture Fair including Best Startup for Good.

Looking ahead, Gonzalez aims to become a corporate senior marketing director while maintaining personal balance. She values the support from Cal Lutheran which she describes as offering ample opportunities for students.

For more information about SPF805 products, visit www.shopspf805.com.