Honoring the Class of 2021

Mercy Alsworth
BA Biology
"Mercy, you have such a warm, friendly personality! Your positive outlook on life will take you far." (Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith)

Zahraa Alyateem
BS Physiology
"Zahraa is tenacious! She does not give up and remains cool and calm when facing obstacles." (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Sei Vin (Julie) An
BA Biology
"Julie's tenacity and logical planning have always impressed me. Her pragmatic approach to problem-solving shows incredible maturity. " (Dr. Tim Nelson)

Cassidy Bianchi-Rossi
BS Physiology
(Minor: Chemistry)
"Cassidy's commitment to success is impressive, but - even more impressively - she's committed to the success of those around her. Cassidy's care for others will cause her to become a fantastic physician." (Dr. Eric Long)

Allyssa Blanco
BS Ecology
"Displays great independence." (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Hannah Carlisle
BA Biology
(Minor: Psychology)
"Hannah has shown such immense growth throughout her time at SPU. She was always so responsible and thoughtful, but has grown into her intelligence and has really developed incredible critical thinking skills. I know that any animal-loving team that gets to hire her will be lucky to have her on board." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Amy Castle
BS Biology
BA Honors
"Amy, you are not afraid to take on a challenge... and that includes tackling the HPLC!" (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Kenneth Chen
BS Physiology
"Kenneth is courageous and steadfast. There's strength behind that calm facade!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Viktoriia Chepykova
BS Applied Human Biology
(Minor: Psychology)
"Viktoriia is motivated and driven, and has a strong sense of self. Our advising appointments were always enjoyable conversations!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Sophia Chilczuk
BS Applied Human Biology
"I love working with Sophia! Her passion, her curiosity, her engagement with class and ideas; she is always delightful!" (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Tamyra Clark-Hoogstrate
BS Applied Human Biology
BA Life Science
(Minor: Psychology)
"Tamyra's commitment to success in the class (and on the water!) has been nothing short of impressive. Tamyra always seems to be organized and on her game. Her dedication is second to none. " (Dr. Eric Long)

Jeanne Coyle
BS Physiology
(Minors: Chemistry, Bioethics & Humanities)
"Jeanne has such a positive outlook, and is deeply curious about everything. I could always count on her to ask insightful questions, or point out interesting tidbits in class." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Sarah Daman
BS Ecology
"Sarah! Such a delightful student! So many great ideas, such authentic and intuitive questions, such passion for learning!" (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Amy De Leon
BS Applied Human Biology
(Minor: Sociology)
"Amy is deeply compassionate and strongly motivated to serve others. She excelled in her courses, and I have no doubt she will excel as a Physician Assistant!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Lisa Dyer
BA Biology
"Lisa is awesome. I so enjoyed having her up-beat attitude in our BIO 2101 class. My only regret is that I didn't get to have her in any more classes! I know she will be successful in whatever adventure she pursues!" (Dr. Cindy Bishop)

Gloria Foster
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
"Gloria is deeply passionate about biology, and I always looked forward to our research meetings because the conversations were never just about her project. In spite of numerous challenges, she always maintained her focus and positive outlook." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Kelsey Furiya
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
(Minor: Chemistry)
"Kelsey has been a wonderful research student to mentor. She always has a smile on her face and brings a warmth to those around her. Kelsey is an excellent scientist who demonstates sceintific intellect, skills, work ethic and passion. I will miss having her in the lab. " (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Bethelehem Gebre
BS Physiology
(Minor: Global and Urban Ministry)
"Beth, your hard work on research and in your classes is greatly appreciated, as are all of your contributions to the BioCore Scholars. It has been a joy to watch you turn into such a talented scientist." (Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith)

Claire Geiman
BS Biology
"Claire, do you ever stop smiling? Your passion for biology is evident and truly inspiring. Thanks for making teaching fun! " (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Jennifer Havens
BS Physiology
(Minor: Bioethics & Humanities)
"You are willing to take chances, see the opposing point of view, and carefully consider the options. Your genuine interest in science and in other people will make you a terrific dentist!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Cindy Huang
BA Life Science
"Congratulations Cindy, a BioCORE Scholar graduate! Your organization, determination and persistence is a joy to behold. You show true grit!" (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Hannah Hutchinson
BS Ecology
BA Honors
"Hannah's passion for ecology has never been in question, and that passion has developed and deepened. Hannah has traveled far and wide to gain a global perspective on challenging issues, and she's ready to tackle some of the world's toughest global issues." (Dr. Eric Long)

Natalie Jacobson
BS Applied Human Biology
"Natalie is never afraid to challenge herself, and was a highly focused and self-motivated student. She has a bright future as a Physician Assistant." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Morgan Jenney
BS Ecology
"Great attitude and independence! Morgan's got grit." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Katherine Kim
BS Applied Human Biology
"Katie was a joy to have in both microbiology and animal physiology. She demonstrated such a strong work ethic and dedication to learning and understanding of subject matter. I am excited for her future success." (Dr. Cindy Bishop)

Samantha Kimmel
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
"Sam has great research and teamwork skills. She is insightful, hard working and provides thoughtful, informed, professional presentations. I enjoyed getting to know you in molecular and look forward to what you will accomplish in the future! Congratulations on your graduation and good luck!" (Dr. Derek Wood)

Gray Kolde
BS Physiology
(Minor: Cultural Anthropology)
"Gray has been a delightful student in every possible way. He never relies on his natural intelligence (which is immense), but works extremely hard, pays attention to every detail, and rises above and beyond, even on small assignments. His future is bright and we are happy to have had him here for a small part of his education." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Cecilia Krause
BS Ecology
(Minor: Ecotheology)
"Cecila, you have a passion for biology that translates into action! You've been a great TA, greenhouse manager, and research student!" (Dr. Eric Long)

Angela Lee
BA Biology
"Angela is thoughtful, empathetic, and has a can-do attitude. She is motivated to do her best, and has worked hard in her courses." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Taylor Lemon
BA Biology
(Minor: French and Francophone Studies)
"Taylor is so gifted at relating class material to her readings, her every day life, and to social justice issues. I am so excited to see her accomplishments in the future as I know she will bring her gifts everywhere she goes." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Graycen Leonard
BS Physiology
"Graycen is thoughtful and reflective, and can be counted on to ask insightful questions. I'm lucky I could have her in three of my courses!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Hunter Liu
BS Applied Human Biology
(Minor: Psychology)
"Throughout his time at SPU, Hunter has demonstrated both significant growth in his self-confidence and a strong commitment to doing his best in his courses." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Taylor MacDonald
BS Ecology
"Taylor was, quite simply, a delight to work with at SPU. Taylor brought energy, enthusiasm, and some (much needed) laughs to pretty much every conversation I ever had with him. Thanks, Taylor! " (Dr. Eric Long)

Ashveen Matharu
BS Physiology
(Minor: Spanish Studies)
"It was a pleasure to have Ashveen in my animal physiology class. She was patient and asked excellent questions. In small group break out sessions she demonstrated critical thinking skills. She has a bright future ahead of her." (Dr. Cindy Bishop)

Rose Matta
BA Life Science
"Rose is hard working and a supportive team member. Your research in molecular was well done and I know you will be successful in whatever you pursue after leaving SPU. Congratulations on your graduation and good luck!" (Dr. Derek Wood)

Andrew Metz
BS Ecology
(Minor: Christian Scripture)
"Andrew, your upbeat, can-do attitude and genuine interest in biology has made you fun contributor in class and resulted in some really cool independent research!" (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Renick Meyer
BS Biology
(Minor: Chemistry)
"It has been a pleasure working with Renick as a research student. Her ability to apply clinical skills from her work environment into our research procedures was amazing. She is also the bladder whisperer! Her critical thinking skills and problem solving will take her far in her future profession." (Dr. Cindy Bishop)

Isaac Mitala
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
"Isaac consistently demonstrated persistence and a positive outlook, even in the face of numerous challenges. Throughout it all, he never lost site of his goals, and worked hard to maintain the high academic standards he set for himself." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Saba Mohammadmansouri
BS Physiology
"It has been such a pleasure to work with Saba, and watch her thrive at SPU. She constantly challenges herself, and has a gift for clearly explaining her understanding of a topic." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Kaylie Nelson
BS Applied Human Biology
"Kaylie is such a wonderful thinker! She is a delight to have in class and makes every conversation better with her wisdom, knowledge, and attention to detail." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Samantha (Sammi) Nguyen
BS Applied Human Biology
"Juggling motherhood with an Applied Human Biology degree, Sammi you always showed such patience, determination, positivity and grace under pressure. You will go far." (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Takara Nguyen
BA Life Science
"Takara, as a transfer student you were really impressive! Great job at SPU." (Dr. Tim Nelson)

Kristyn Oshiro
BS Biology
"Kristyn, your comments and questions in class have demonstrated that you really know your stuff!" (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Jieun Park
BS Applied Human Biology
"Jieun was a pleasure to have as a student in animal physiology and microbiology. She is thoughtful, intelligent, active participant in learning. I am sure that she will be very successful in her future profession." (Dr. Cindy Bishop)

Joseph Perkins
BA Biology
(Minor: Philosophy)
"Joseph is one the deepest thinkers I have had the pleasure of working with. His questions almost always caused me to stop and think more carefully about whatever topic I was teaching. I always looked forward to conversations with Joseph." (Dr. Eric Long)

Krystalyn Rosatto-Quinones
BA General Studies
"Krystalyn continues to inspire me with her drive to complete her degree, in spite of numerous challenges and roadblocks she has dealt with." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Roxanne (Roxy) Ruther
BS Applied Human Biology
(Minor: Sociology)
"Roxy is going to be an awesome physical therapist! She's ambitious, thoughtful, practical, and kind." (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Colton Smith
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
(Minor: Chemistry)
"Colton's MinION expertise and patience made him an excellent TA. You will be missed!" (Dr. Derek Wood)

Devin Streeter
BS Applied Human Biology
"Devin, you have been a superstar due to a combination of hard work, a great attitude, and talent for biology. Congratulations on your graduation!" (Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith)

Keane Suen
BS Applied Human Biology
"Keane, it has been a pleasure to watch you mature as a student during your time at SPU. Your hard work and persistence has paid off!" (Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith)

Stacy Tam
BA Biology
"Stacy, your upbeat personality and bright smile created a calm and pleasant atmosphere in the lab and classroom." (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Kaytlin Tan
BS Physiology
"I always looked forward to advising appointments with Kayt. She is an organized, intelligent, hard-working student. It has been a pleasure to be her instructor in animal physiology and medical terminology. She contributes to her classmates and small group discussions. I am excited to see where her future endeavors take her." (Dr. Cindy Bishop)

Cori Anne Tang
BS Applied Human Biology
"Cori Anne, you have been a fabulous student, a dedicated Learning Assistant and an ever reliable TA. We appreciate your attention to detail, your kindness and the joyous calm you brought to the classroom." (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Nicole Thompson
BS Physiology
"Nicole, thank you for your hard work and conscientiousness! You have been a joy to have in the classroom and we appreciate all of your work with our animals." (Dr. Janet Bester-Meredith)

Angie Vazquez
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
(Minor: Chemistry)
"Angie has been a delight to have as a student researcher. Her love for science is evident. She has shown great dedication to the lab and her research project. Angie even won an award for her summer research project presentation. I will miss having her in the lab." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Kaitline Waddell
BS Physiology
"Kaitline is focused, attentive, and has so many gifts in and out of the classroom. Her broad range of skills is impressive and is going to be a key aspect of her success in her very bright future." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Anessa Woodby
BA Life Science
"Anessa was, quite simply, a delight to work with in the classroom and on Blakely Island! She was always ready with a smile or a kind word, and her commitment to success is impressive." (Dr. Eric Long)

Jacob Woodford
BS Ecology
"Jacob, your passion for bio (especially chemcial ecology :)) is apparent. It's hard to watch you learn a new bio fact without smiling!" (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Israel Zamudio
BS Physiology
"Congratulations Israel, a BioCORE Scholar graduate! Thank you for your caring Peer Mentor skills, your unflappable calm and your thoughtfulness." (Dr. Elena Brezynski)