Â鶹ÊÓƵ Science Complex
Â鶹ÊÓƵ's leading-edge science facilities
Whether students become scientists or science-informed leaders, cultivating science awareness is part of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's commitment to providing a comprehensive, interdisciplinary education. Rising to meet Oregon's demand for a skilled STEM workforce, our 84,400-square-foot science complex – designed for inclusive, collaborative, immersive learning and discovery – is where unforgettable exploration begins.
Teaching labs
The two-story W.M. Keck Science Center building features an inviting collaborative lobby, student study loft and eight state-of-the-art teaching labs dedicated to the sciences.
Collaborative research
A renovation and addition to Graf Hall extends classrooms, the lecture hall and a multi-purpose space on one level. A new space serving faculty and students in their collaborative research efforts is on the upper level.
Wine education
Our wine studies program expands hands-on learning opportunities with a lab devoted to wine as well as a wine sensory classroom reserved in the science center.
Related news
Opening doors
Opening doors
The new Â鶹ÊÓƵ Science Complex is paving the way for science education, students and the future.
Playing in the dirt
Playing in the dirt
Â鶹ÊÓƵ students are looking for the next life-saving antibiotic in the tiniest places.
A foundation of excellence
A foundation of excellence
The names Keck and Murdock should be familiar to the Â鶹ÊÓƵ community. They have long been tied to some of the most transformational moments in university history.
Studying the sciences
Voices of Â鶹ÊÓƵ
Finding purpose on the mat
When Roan Zigenis ’28 steps onto the mat, he’s competing for more than the rush of victory.
Finding Confidence and Community in LEAD
Discover how Kalina Zagyva ’29 found community, confidence and leadership growth through Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s LEAD Honors program.
Celebración une a Â鶹ÊÓƵ y McMinnville en el Mes de la Herencia Latine
Celebración unió a Â鶹ÊÓƵ y McMinnville con música, bailes y orgullo latine durante el Mes de la Herencia Latine.
The Lithuanian Wildcat
Students from all backgrounds and corners of the world can find their place at Â鶹ÊÓƵ — including Kristijonas “Kris” Jakštas ’29, an international student from Vilnius, Lithuania.
The Latest Standout Transfer
Trading big school chaos for small school comfort, meet Grace Christiansen ‘26, a standout transfer student who's balancing life as a biochemistry & molecular biology major and captain of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ cheer team.
The Goldilocks Transfer
Colin Bellairs ’26, a literature and creative writing major, rewrote his own college story — twice — before finding his "right fit" at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2025-26 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville-based ASLU team for 2025-26.
Discovering Community and Adventure
Jacob MacFarland shares his inspiring experience at Smith Rock Spring Thing, restoring trails, protecting nature and discovering community in Oregon.
Great Strides
When Alex Mangan ’16 first laced up his running shoes as a student-athlete at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, he couldn’t have imagined he’d one day be organizing a major event in Oregon’s capital.
Shaping futures in class and competition
After nearly three decades in the classroom and on the track, Tramaine Payne ’98 earned one of McMinnville’s highest honors: Educator of the Year, presented by the city’s Distinguished Service Awards.
Discovering a passion for psychological research
Caitlin Babcock ’25 wasn’t sure research was her path after graduation. The idea of spending all day in a lab, conducting studies in the name of science, didn’t sound appealing, at least not at first.
Clearing the lens
Clearing the lens: In ‘last lecture,’ Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Dr. Dawn Nowacki sums up a life of studying Russia
Balancing Lanes, Lyrics and Language
Ella Quijano ’27 is a secondary education major and Spanish minor. She is a member of the swim team, the university concert choir and the Spanish Club
Breaking boundaries in physics
Ajeeta Khatiwada ’10 grew up in Nepal dreaming of a career in physics — an ambitious path in a place where research opportunities were scarce and resources even scarcer.
Leading with purpose
Dan McMillan ’88 never imagined a job he took “because it seemed like a good company” would one day lead him to the top.
A lifetime of loyalty
Fifty years after graduating with a degree in business administration with a minor in political science, Steve Pickering ’74 is still all in for Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
Teaching with purpose
Marycelia Hernandez-Vallejo ’25 didn’t have to wait long to get in the classroom. At Â鶹ÊÓƵ, education majors begin hands-on learning early — sometimes in their very first year.
Wine passion takes root
Alice Cowie ’25 has known since she was 12 that she wanted to work in wine. What she didn’t know was where that passion would take root.
Outdoor Rec Club
A January Term course in Patagonia gave Maggie Berry ’25 and Reese Jones ’26 the spark to reinvigorate the Outdoor Rec Club.
Lights, Camera, 48 Hours
Ten Â鶹ÊÓƵ students from a range of majors came together with a shared goal — to make a film in just 48 hours.
Crafting Chemistry
Â鶹ÊÓƵ students learn to brew — and think — creatively
Exploring the secrets of swarms
Under the guidance of Joelle Murray, Mikaila, along with fellow student Lucas Pinard, explored how groups of insects work together, using Python to model and analyze swarm behavior.
January in Japan: A time to remember
Mariah Johnston '25 reflects on her time traveling through Japan as a part of the January Term class The Story of Japan’s Health and Food Innovations in this photo essay.
Stopping by: Good day, every day
Mariana Fernandez, a Â鶹ÊÓƵ graduate, teaches first grade at Wascher Elementary, blending passion, bilingual skills, and psychology. A former P.E.O. scholarship recipient, she now helps others through the organization. She balances teaching with working at her family’s restaurant and hopes to inspire students to dream big and work hard.
Reconnecting with his roots and finding community through LULA
For nursing major Gerardo Ramos Anduaga ’26, the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Latine Adelante (LULA) club was a way to get involved with other students who shared a similar culture. Through hangouts, events and leadership roles, Gerardo felt like he found his place on campus.
Finding mentorship and international recognition
Emma Bare ’25 received international recognition for a critical essay, originally written for her literature class. She found success thanks to mentorship from her professor, Reshmi Dutt-Ballerstadt.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Ainsley Medina ’26
Ainsley Medina, a junior from Castle Rock, Colorado, was drawn to Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s close-knit community and plans to pursue play therapy while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and pickleball.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Rhysa Huffman ’27
Rhysa Huffman, a sophomore psychology major from Eugene, Oregon, chose Â鶹ÊÓƵ for its welcoming community and encourages students to get involved and make the most of campus opportunities.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Caity Babcock ’25
Caity Babcock, a senior from Monterey, California, is passionate about sport and exercise psychology and found a supportive community at Â鶹ÊÓƵ through the psychology department and women’s lacrosse team.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Mandy Dewey ’25
Mandy Dewey, a senior from Gresham, Oregon, is double majoring in psychology and mathematics and emphasizes the importance of community and involvement in the psychology department for academic success.
Forging Unconditional Friendships
Lindsay Walker’s time at Â鶹ÊÓƵ led to friendships that have endured for nearly three decades. These bonds, formed through shared experiences and a close-knit community, have grown into an unbreakable support system.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2024-25 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville-based ASLU team for 2024-25.
From Â鶹ÊÓƵ to Hollywood
From horror to Hallmark holiday feel-goods, Jenna Brister ’06 has the catalog to do it all. The comedian, actress and screenwriter graduated from Â鶹ÊÓƵ with a degree in mass communications and is now thriving in Hollywood.
2024 Alumni Service Award
Join us in congratulating Kerry Carmody ’73 as this year’s recipient of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni Service Award. He has been passionate about Â鶹ÊÓƵ for over 50 years.
2024 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Lance Lopes ’85 is Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s 2024 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. From a 2-stoplight town in the middle of nowhere where less than 10% of students attended college to becoming Executive VP, General Counsel for the Seattle Kraken.
2024 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award
Miriam Vargas Corona ’14 has been selected as this year’s Outstanding Young Alumnus. Miriam was born in Michoacán, Mexico, immigrated to the United States at the age of nine months, and grew up in Dayton, Oregon.
Nashville country singer returns to Â鶹ÊÓƵ for NW Media Fest
Jessie G ’12 has been making waves in Nashville as an independent country singer/songwriter. The political science and music alumnus returned to Â鶹ÊÓƵ for the 2023 NW Media Fest, showcasing her music and sharing her creative journey with current students.
Earning a Fulbright to Teach in Peru
Discover the inspiring journey of Iván Galicia Sixto, a Â鶹ÊÓƵ student who overcame significant personal challenges to win a prestigious Fulbright award. Learn how his unique background and commitment to education will empower him to inspire students in Peru to embrace their indigenous languages.
Transformation Through Travel
Aidan Howell '22 International Relations grew up dreaming of traveling the world. Today she has begun her career in the air travel industry. Read here how her time studying at Â鶹ÊÓƵ and abroad equipped her with the tools she needed to step into this career with confidence.
Making Connections to Creativity
Read about how Emma Inge's focus on building a strong network during her undergrad led her to internships and eventually a full time job producing content for a creative company after graduation.
Winning with the holiday blues
Discover the creativity of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's own Annemarie Mullet ’24, whose unique holiday wrapping paper design captivated the judges at Premier Press's annual contest. From a sketch to a festive reality, Annemarie's 'Snowman Friends' design embodies the spirit of the holidays and showcases her exceptional talent in digital arts. And does it in a unique blue snowflake and snowman design.
Uncovering Inspiration
Elise Bedford ’22 had a plan – graduate in three years, get real-world medical training and then attend medical school to become a doctor. What she didn’t know was where her journey would start.
Knowledge Is an Open Door
Antonio Peña Anaya’s high school counselor warned him: “Don’t apply to a four-year university.” Students like Antonio, a child of undocumented immigrants, aren’t always welcome, she said. Was Antonio discouraged? Not for a moment. He was determined to prove her wrong.
Activate the Discovery Gene
Once a first-generation college student, now a dedicated member of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's science faculty, Catherine Reinke comes alive when she blends teaching with her research as a cell biologist.
Within Reach
Daughter of a single mother. Sister to a deployed active duty United States Marine. And unable to secure loans to afford a four-year university experience. This is the story of Hannah Waterman - one of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's many prized students.
Leading the Cat Zone
Emma Campbell ’24 and Faith Sposito ’24, president and vice president of the Associate Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU), have been two very influential women representing the students of the McMinnville campus.
Meet Student Ambassador Marissa Dolson '24
"The field of psychology is absolutely fascinating. There is so much support in the psychology department from the professors and peers. I am so excited to expand the support system by being a psychology ambassador!"
Meet Psychology Ambassador Adaela Stigile '25
"The psychology department is such a welcoming space, and I can't wait to connect more with incoming and current people."
Meet Student Psychology Ambassador Zee Nace '24
"Now entering my senior year, I recognize that finding your safe space on a college campus isn't about making sure you can fit yourself into every available slot; it's about finding the space that adapts to you too. As a student ambassador, I know psychology isn't everyone's thing, but if you think it might be yours, Â鶹ÊÓƵ's psychology department wants to learn your name and adapt to you too."
A Transfer Student's Triumph
When Mariah Johnston ’25 arrived at Â鶹ÊÓƵ as a transfer student in her second year of college, she found that involvement was easier to achieve than expected. “With class sizes so small and super involved professors, it’s kind of hard not to get involved.”
A Taste of the Wine Industry
Victor Sandoval '24, a Â鶹ÊÓƵ communication arts major, is gaining real-world experience working in Acorn to Oak Wine Experience, a new tasting room and learning lab in historic downtown McMinnville, OR.
Pairing His Two Passions
While it seems like sports and photography are two different mediums, Jake Downing '25 has put the two together creating a learning environment at Â鶹ÊÓƵ based on his specific interests.
From Commander to Captain
Economics professor Eric Schuck's expertise in operations and logistics doesn't just benefit Â鶹ÊÓƵ students. He was recently promoted from commander to captain in the U.S. Navy Reserve, where he serves as a Supply Corps officer.
Building Her Dream Through a Summer Internship
Thanks to a unique partnership between Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Office of Career Development and First Federal Savings and Loan, students like Lizeth Quiroz '26 can participate in part-time internships at local nonprofits and earn money for it.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2023-24 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville ASLU team for 2023-24.
Composed For Global Success
Music has taken Â鶹ÊÓƵ alumnus Zach Gulaboff Davis ’14 from his home in Salem, Oregon to some of the most amazing places in the world.
2023 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award
Rakshya Khatiwada ‘08 has dedicated her life to learning and discovery in the field of physics. As one of Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s international students, her experience is unlike many that have attended Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Her exceptional career is rooted in her uncommon education at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
2023 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Brent Barry ’96 is Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s 2023 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. He attributes his ability to confront recent crises with composure, courage and intelligence to the lessons he acquired in the classrooms and through participation in athletics at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
2023 Alumni Service Award
Join us in congratulating Dana (Dancer) Vandecoevering ’83 as this year’s recipient of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni Service Award. She has shown her loyalty to Â鶹ÊÓƵ through the donation of her time, talents and resources.
Recruiting the Next Generation of Talent
Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Office of Career Development helps connect students with potential employers. At the end of every academic year, they host a Job Fair with recruiters present from different industries, ranging from health care to entertainment, automotive insurance, and even the local police department.
From Small Town to Big Possibilities
Although Meghan Mullaly’s college path wasn’t clear from the start, everything seemed to fall into place once she arrived as a student on the Â鶹ÊÓƵ McMinnville Campus. Now, thanks to Â鶹ÊÓƵ's opportunities and preparation, this small-town girl knows that she is prepared to do big things.
Her Untraditional Journey to Â鶹ÊÓƵ
“I do think that coming to Â鶹ÊÓƵ was pretty much the best thing for me,” Brooke Brown '23 said. “It opened up so many different opportunities, ideas, friendships and relationships that I wouldn’t have had before.”
Empowered Women Empower Women
Of the 21 faculty members and instructors in Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s STEM areas, 11 are women. While nationally, the number of women decrease with academic rank, half of Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s women STEM leaders have earned the advanced titles of associate professor and professor.
Pairing Art with Science
Kalkidan Crapper '19 is a fourth-grade teacher who believes every kid should have the chance to learn about science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM). She tries to incorporate these topics into class a little bit each day.
Discovering a Path Less Traveled
Jessenya Mil ’19 arrived at Â鶹ÊÓƵ interested in the sciences. She found a home for her passion in the biology lab. Today, she's a third-year doctoral candidate in the molecular biology doctorate program at UCLA.
Embracing the Unexpected
Emma Sammartino '23 has always kept academics as her top priority. What she has enjoyed most about studying STEM at Â鶹ÊÓƵ is the accessibility of professors. “They genuinely want you to learn and they are willing to mentor you and make sure you understand the material.”
Breaking Through the Beauty Industry
Lash Lab PDX began as a lash extension service provided by Â鶹ÊÓƵ alumnus Amantha Hood '17. “My company provides the service of lash extensions, but I think the bigger impact on the community is that I’m teaching people how to start a business and how to be their own boss.”
Writing His Own Story
As a first-generation student beginning his last semester of college, Marques Herrera Kuehn '23 says "I am fulfilling a chapter in my family’s life that has never been opened. And I am the one writing it.”
Rome: Ancient and Modern Storytelling
Follow Â鶹ÊÓƵ students on their 2023 January Term journey through Greece and Italy. Here, Kelsey Jordan '23 describes the sights and sounds of exploring Rome.
Giving Thanks to our Pride Community
Â鶹ÊÓƵ United in Pride (LUP), Â鶹ÊÓƵ's queer student union, held its first-ever Friendsgiving for Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s pride community ahead of the 2022 Thanksgiving Break.
Greece: The Histories, the Stories, the Journey
Follow Â鶹ÊÓƵ students on their 2023 January Term journey through Greece and Italy. Here, Kelsey Jordan '23 describes the sights and sounds of exploring Greece.
Greece: Ancient and Modern Storytelling
The Wildcats Traveling Theatre blog covers the journey of 15 Â鶹ÊÓƵ students as we study abroad learning about the history of theatre and storytelling across seven different cities in Greece and Italy.
Meet the 2022-23 CATS educators
The Consent Awareness Training Squad (CATS) is a group of student leaders that work to spread awareness on and off campus about the importance of consent, healthy relationships, respect and safe alcohol habits.
Toward a More Inclusive Â鶹ÊÓƵ
LGBTQ+ educator Trystan Reese's work at Â鶹ÊÓƵ is part of an ongoing commitment to making Â鶹ÊÓƵ a place where all students, faculty and staff feel welcomed, seen and supported.
Wrestling for the Wildcats
“The women’s [wrestling] coach, Coach Alyssa, is what really drew me in,” said Hanna Gillas '26. “I knew that I’d really grow as a wrestler with her, and I knew she’d put a team together that would feel like a family.”
Beyond 'Thanks For Your Service'
Â鶹ÊÓƵ veterans share what they wish civilians understood about military life.
Building Meaningful Relationships
“When I met with my advisor, she was very welcoming, very warm and she made me feel at home,” said Heriberto Chavez Bolanos '23. “I created friendships, not only with other students but also with faculty and staff.”
Diwali: A Festival of Lights
Diwali is the Indian Festival of Lights. Diwali is about the triumph of good over evil. Diwali is about radiance and hope. Diwali is about good food and socializing. And Diwali is about connection and respect.
Discovering Â鶹ÊÓƵ
Emma Libby ’23, like many Â鶹ÊÓƵ students, took advantage of the university’s many versatile study-abroad opportunities. She spent the spring semester of 2022 learning about wine in France.
My Bonus Families For Fall Family Weekend
Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s annual Fall Family Weekend brought forth a flood of Wildcat families. Kayley Dombrigues '25 spent hers with the families of her roommates, Olivia Welsh ’25 and Matigan Dodge ’25. Kayley said, "By folding me into their family activities, I felt the security and warm-loving comfort of family in the absence of my own."
Learning at Miller Woods
On a visit to Miller Woods nature park, several Â鶹ÊÓƵ education majors helped second-graders learn about insects that live in a pond, how to predict weather and the good things bees do, during a science field trip.
Unforgettable Experience
Mia Naccarato '24 was nominated by faculty for Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Presidential Impact Internship Program. It changed the course of her undergraduate studies.
Meet Psychology Student Ambassador Rosalie
"I love working with the psych department because there are so many opportunities to get involved."
2022 Alumni Service Award
Garlinn (Hansen) Story ’69 has been a passionate advocate for Â鶹ÊÓƵ and has served the university in a number of capacities over the years. She is the recipient of the 2022 Alumni Service Award.
2022 Outstanding Young Alumni
I’m incredibly grateful that Â鶹ÊÓƵ helped me grow intellectually, physically and emotionally. My four years carved a path for me to pursue a career where I can help others grow in similar ways,” said Zach Brandon '14, Â鶹ÊÓƵ's 2022 Outstanding Young Alumni recipient.
2022 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Jeffrey Crapper ’00, the 2022 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, took full advantage of his Â鶹ÊÓƵ education with a triple major, plus a minor. And he hasn’t slowed down in the years since.
Students Are Agents of Change
The Â鶹ÊÓƵ archive and other programs on Â鶹ÊÓƵ campuses present students with opportunities to change the world, or even a small piece of it, for the better throughout their time as a Wildcat.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2022-23 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville ASLU team for 2022-23.
Wildcat Writers
Looking for a summer read? Peruse a selection of work by Wildcat alumni who have moved on to publish great things.
Opera events share spotlight with music of Ukraine
“We are producing several winery events. We are producing special Ukraine concerts that feature music of Ukraine and we are producing a new opera,” said Director Anton Belov.
Seizing the Opportunity
With close relationships with professors, supportive teammates on and off the basketball court and a trip to the NCAA women's basketball championship tournament, rising senior Janessa Yniguez ’23 has made the most of every opportunity presented during her time at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
From Â鶹ÊÓƵ Hoodie to Â鶹ÊÓƵ Lu'au
First-year student Taetum Lynn Kalani '25 was more than ready to dance in Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s 49th Annual Lu'au and Ho'ike. You could say that it all began with her grandfather’s Â鶹ÊÓƵ hooded sweatshirt.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Inaugural Camas Fest
One of those backyard ecosystems at Â鶹ÊÓƵ sits on the north side of campus around Cozine Creek. Fleeger helped jumpstart a major restoration project there alongside the Greater Yamhill Watershed Council (GYWC). Â鶹ÊÓƵ students and faculty members worked with the watershed council to begin removing invasive blackberry bushes.
A Helping Hand
For sophomore Lucy Kerr '24, helping others has always been the priority. The pre-nursing major came into Â鶹ÊÓƵ as a first-generation student. She now lends a helping hand to those in the same position.
A Peaceful Journey
In addition to her undergraduate studies, Sabrina Heizenrader '25 quickly found a place in Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Learning Across Boundaries (LAB), where student-led initiatives aim to help the greater Â鶹ÊÓƵ community. Her focus with LAB this year is on mental health.
Debuting on Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Stage
"Treasure Island was certainly the most nervous I've been on-stage in a while," Robert Turner '24 said. "I hadn't acted in front of a live audience in two years."
Love at Â鶹ÊÓƵ
February is known as the month of love. We recently asked our alumni to share their stories of finding love at Â鶹ÊÓƵ and the response was overwhelming! Here are a few stories of Â鶹ÊÓƵ love connections throughout the decades.
Life Between the Lanes
If you can name a Team USA swimmer from the past two decades, there’s an excellent chance Stacey Michael-Miller ’96 worked with them in some capacity.
From BSN to CRNA — How One Degree Opened a World of Possibilities
When Katie (Kohler) Peters graduated from Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s nursing program in 2017, she knew she was entering a stable and meaningful profession. What she didn’t fully know yet was just how many doors that degree would open.
Local nonprofit helps fix student's last-minute crisis
Jamie Shevchenko '28 spent fall semester in England thanks, in part, to the McMinnville Soroptimist organization. Club members stepped in after the international business major’s car was ransacked and her laptop and other necessities stolen.
Finding purpose on the mat
When Roan Zigenis ’28 steps onto the mat, he’s competing for more than the rush of victory.
Finding Confidence and Community in LEAD
Discover how Kalina Zagyva ’29 found community, confidence and leadership growth through Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s LEAD Honors program.
Celebración une a Â鶹ÊÓƵ y McMinnville en el Mes de la Herencia Latine
Celebración unió a Â鶹ÊÓƵ y McMinnville con música, bailes y orgullo latine durante el Mes de la Herencia Latine.
The Lithuanian Wildcat
Students from all backgrounds and corners of the world can find their place at Â鶹ÊÓƵ — including Kristijonas “Kris” Jakštas ’29, an international student from Vilnius, Lithuania.
First-generation support on the Portland campus
Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Succeeding as a First-Generation Scholar program is helping students like nursing majors Jennifer Flores-Lopez ’27 and Baylie Chetwood ’26 thrive on the Portland campus.
The Latest Standout Transfer
Trading big school chaos for small school comfort, meet Grace Christiansen ‘26, a standout transfer student who's balancing life as a biochemistry & molecular biology major and captain of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ cheer team.
The Goldilocks Transfer
Colin Bellairs ’26, a literature and creative writing major, rewrote his own college story — twice — before finding his "right fit" at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
Meet Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s new M.S. in business cohort
The newest Master of Science in business cohort started class in August 2025, bringing diverse academic backgrounds, professional experiences and passions.
ASLU Portland Campus: 2025-26 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the Portland-based ASLU team for 2025-26.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2025-26 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville-based ASLU team for 2025-26.
Discovering Community and Adventure
Jacob MacFarland shares his inspiring experience at Smith Rock Spring Thing, restoring trails, protecting nature and discovering community in Oregon.
Great Strides
When Alex Mangan ’16 first laced up his running shoes as a student-athlete at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, he couldn’t have imagined he’d one day be organizing a major event in Oregon’s capital.
Serving with heart
As the director of emergency services at Willamette Valley Medical Center (WVMC), Brandon Harris ’15 shows up for his patients, his coworkers and his hometown every shift, every day.
Shaping futures in class and competition
After nearly three decades in the classroom and on the track, Tramaine Payne ’98 earned one of McMinnville’s highest honors: Educator of the Year, presented by the city’s Distinguished Service Awards.
Discovering a passion for psychological research
Caitlin Babcock ’25 wasn’t sure research was her path after graduation. The idea of spending all day in a lab, conducting studies in the name of science, didn’t sound appealing, at least not at first.
Healing through sleep science
Makayla Cordoza ’08 has spent her career chasing an answer to a deceptively simple question: How do we help patients — and care teams — sleep better?
Clearing the lens
Clearing the lens: In ‘last lecture,’ Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Dr. Dawn Nowacki sums up a life of studying Russia
Balancing Lanes, Lyrics and Language
Ella Quijano ’27 is a secondary education major and Spanish minor. She is a member of the swim team, the university concert choir and the Spanish Club
Breaking boundaries in physics
Ajeeta Khatiwada ’10 grew up in Nepal dreaming of a career in physics — an ambitious path in a place where research opportunities were scarce and resources even scarcer.
Leading with purpose
Dan McMillan ’88 never imagined a job he took “because it seemed like a good company” would one day lead him to the top.
A lifetime of loyalty
Fifty years after graduating with a degree in business administration with a minor in political science, Steve Pickering ’74 is still all in for Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
Gratitude and goal setting
Drawing inspiration from his family, Anson Agapay is focusing on a career of service in the medical field.
Teaching with purpose
Marycelia Hernandez-Vallejo ’25 didn’t have to wait long to get in the classroom. At Â鶹ÊÓƵ, education majors begin hands-on learning early — sometimes in their very first year.
Wine passion takes root
Alice Cowie ’25 has known since she was 12 that she wanted to work in wine. What she didn’t know was where that passion would take root.
Outdoor Rec Club
A January Term course in Patagonia gave Maggie Berry ’25 and Reese Jones ’26 the spark to reinvigorate the Outdoor Rec Club.
Lights, Camera, 48 Hours
Ten Â鶹ÊÓƵ students from a range of majors came together with a shared goal — to make a film in just 48 hours.
Crafting Chemistry
Â鶹ÊÓƵ students learn to brew — and think — creatively
Collaborating with the community
Read how Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity is supporting Henderson House during Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Pride (LUP) brings students together
Learn more about Â鶹ÊÓƵ Pride (LUP) and how they provide opportunities for the university's LGBTQIA+ community to meet and thrive.
Exploring the secrets of swarms
Under the guidance of Joelle Murray, Mikaila, along with fellow student Lucas Pinard, explored how groups of insects work together, using Python to model and analyze swarm behavior.
January in Japan: A time to remember
Mariah Johnston '25 reflects on her time traveling through Japan as a part of the January Term class The Story of Japan’s Health and Food Innovations in this photo essay.
Stopping by: Good day, every day
Mariana Fernandez, a Â鶹ÊÓƵ graduate, teaches first grade at Wascher Elementary, blending passion, bilingual skills, and psychology. A former P.E.O. scholarship recipient, she now helps others through the organization. She balances teaching with working at her family’s restaurant and hopes to inspire students to dream big and work hard.
Baily Eberhardt '23 - M.S. in Business Alumni Spotlight
Learn more about Baily Eberhardt '23, a Master of Science in business alumni.
Finding an outlet through crafts
Thanks to the Cats Getting Crafty Club, students at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ School of Nursing are also adding candle-making, painting and more.
Stopping by: From the Heart
Yu-Shan Chen found her purpose in McMinnville—celebrating culture, community and connection. As she helps lead this Sunday’s Lunar New Year Celebration, she’s eager to share her Taiwanese heritage and inspire others to embrace their own.
Overcoming obstacles to nursing success
Read how Natisha Ortiz Rodriguez ’24 overcome several obstacles on her journey to becoming a registered nurse.
Advancing his nursing career in the ER and skies
Josh Ward ’18 has transformed his Â鶹ÊÓƵ nursing degree into a multifaceted and impactful emergency and transport nursing career.
Hitting a home run, on and off the field
Nathan Kassler ’25 is interested in people. It’s why he enjoys competing with the Wildcat baseball team, likes participating in student clubs and majoring in finance.
Reconnecting with his roots and finding community through LULA
For nursing major Gerardo Ramos Anduaga ’26, the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Latine Adelante (LULA) club was a way to get involved with other students who shared a similar culture. Through hangouts, events and leadership roles, Gerardo felt like he found his place on campus.
Finding mentorship and international recognition
Emma Bare ’25 received international recognition for a critical essay, originally written for her literature class. She found success thanks to mentorship from her professor, Reshmi Dutt-Ballerstadt.
2024-25 M.S. in Business Cohort
Introducing Â鶹ÊÓƵ's 2024-25 Master of Science in business cohort. Now offering three unique concentrations, this one-year program is designed for anyone ready to pursue roles in leadership.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Ainsley Medina ’26
Ainsley Medina, a junior from Castle Rock, Colorado, was drawn to Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s close-knit community and plans to pursue play therapy while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and pickleball.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Rhysa Huffman ’27
Rhysa Huffman, a sophomore psychology major from Eugene, Oregon, chose Â鶹ÊÓƵ for its welcoming community and encourages students to get involved and make the most of campus opportunities.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Caity Babcock ’25
Caity Babcock, a senior from Monterey, California, is passionate about sport and exercise psychology and found a supportive community at Â鶹ÊÓƵ through the psychology department and women’s lacrosse team.
Meet Psychology Ambassador Mandy Dewey ’25
Mandy Dewey, a senior from Gresham, Oregon, is double majoring in psychology and mathematics and emphasizes the importance of community and involvement in the psychology department for academic success.
Forging Unconditional Friendships
Lindsay Walker’s time at Â鶹ÊÓƵ led to friendships that have endured for nearly three decades. These bonds, formed through shared experiences and a close-knit community, have grown into an unbreakable support system.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2024-25 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville-based ASLU team for 2024-25.
Leading the next generation of nurses
Leadership is a fundamental component of a Â鶹ÊÓƵ education. For nursing students like Miguel Olide Gomez ‘24 and Carson Overstreet ‘24, it is an essential part of their professional training.
From Â鶹ÊÓƵ to Hollywood
From horror to Hallmark holiday feel-goods, Jenna Brister ’06 has the catalog to do it all. The comedian, actress and screenwriter graduated from Â鶹ÊÓƵ with a degree in mass communications and is now thriving in Hollywood.
2024 Distinguished Nursing Alumnus
Desi (Neely) Shubin ’96 has been selected as this year’s Distinguished Nursing Alumnus.
2024 Alumni Service Award
Join us in congratulating Kerry Carmody ’73 as this year’s recipient of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni Service Award. He has been passionate about Â鶹ÊÓƵ for over 50 years.
2024 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Lance Lopes ’85 is Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s 2024 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. From a 2-stoplight town in the middle of nowhere where less than 10% of students attended college to becoming Executive VP, General Counsel for the Seattle Kraken.
2024 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award
Miriam Vargas Corona ’14 has been selected as this year’s Outstanding Young Alumnus. Miriam was born in Michoacán, Mexico, immigrated to the United States at the age of nine months, and grew up in Dayton, Oregon.
Education and Wine: The Best of Both Worlds
Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s first 3+2 wine studies program student, Emma Anderson ’20, has traveled all over the world while simultaneously earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. The best part? She did all of it while exploring the world of wine.
Nashville country singer returns to Â鶹ÊÓƵ for NW Media Fest
Jessie G ’12 has been making waves in Nashville as an independent country singer/songwriter. The political science and music alumnus returned to Â鶹ÊÓƵ for the 2023 NW Media Fest, showcasing her music and sharing her creative journey with current students.
ASLU-PC’s new leadership
Discover how Brielle Brick and Violet Strange are transforming student leadership at Â鶹ÊÓƵ-Portland Campus. Learn about their journey, vision and commitment to enhancing student involvement and fostering a strong sense of community among nursing students.
Wildcat pride and a Warrior spirit
View a photo essay detailing Divenson's journey from Haiti to graduation from Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
From Customer Service to Community Service
Read about how Ryan Connole changed careers from bar manager to Registered Nurse. At Â鶹ÊÓƵ, he completed his master's entry to professional nursing which unlocked a new career in which he could have a meaningful impact on his community.
Earning a Fulbright to Teach in Peru
Discover the inspiring journey of Iván Galicia Sixto, a Â鶹ÊÓƵ student who overcame significant personal challenges to win a prestigious Fulbright award. Learn how his unique background and commitment to education will empower him to inspire students in Peru to embrace their indigenous languages.
Transformation Through Travel
Aidan Howell '22 International Relations grew up dreaming of traveling the world. Today she has begun her career in the air travel industry. Read here how her time studying at Â鶹ÊÓƵ and abroad equipped her with the tools she needed to step into this career with confidence.
Creating a Memorable Student Experience
Embracing the small classroom sizes and close-knit community, Divenson Willis ’24 has involved himself widely as a campus leader. He cares deeply that students get the most out of their college experience by involving themselves in the Â鶹ÊÓƵ community.
A Path to Sport Management Success
Read about Isaac Milner's entrance into the sports industry through an Internship with the Portland Trailblazers. When Isaac was initially turned down due to lack of experience, he found innovative solutions to build experience that he would eventually create for himself. By creating the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Front Office program, for students interested in careers in sports, they can learn valuable skills to bring with them into competitive careers.
Making Connections to Creativity
Read about how Emma Inge's focus on building a strong network during her undergrad led her to internships and eventually a full time job producing content for a creative company after graduation.
A Trailblazer in Sport Management and Sport Leadership
Read about Kathryn Canfield's remarkable journey at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, from a journalism graduate to a rising star in sport leadership. Discover how her unique blend of media expertise and passion for sport management is shaping the future of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Front Office team and inspiring the next generation of sports industry professionals.
Winning with the holiday blues
Discover the creativity of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's own Annemarie Mullet ’24, whose unique holiday wrapping paper design captivated the judges at Premier Press's annual contest. From a sketch to a festive reality, Annemarie's 'Snowman Friends' design embodies the spirit of the holidays and showcases her exceptional talent in digital arts. And does it in a unique blue snowflake and snowman design.
Called to Lead
Discover the transformative journey of Bella Miranda-Goeller, from a directionless freshman to a passionate nursing student and inspiring leader at ASLU-Portland Campus. In this profile, Bella shares her ‘Aha!’ moment that ignited her nursing career, her dynamic role as campus president and the invaluable lessons learned in leadership. Delve into her story to uncover how a quest for purpose led to a life of service and academic fervor at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
Uncovering Inspiration
Elise Bedford ’22 had a plan – graduate in three years, get real-world medical training and then attend medical school to become a doctor. What she didn’t know was where her journey would start.
Curiosity Worth Cultivating
Confessed wine geeks David and Jeanne Beck were at the peak of distinguished careers in biomedicine when the vineyard called. Led by a taste for fine pinot noir, the Becks discovered a unique micro-terroir in the Willamette Valley. It was love. Then they fell again—for Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
Knowledge Is an Open Door
Antonio Peña Anaya’s high school counselor warned him: “Don’t apply to a four-year university.” Students like Antonio, a child of undocumented immigrants, aren’t always welcome, she said. Was Antonio discouraged? Not for a moment. He was determined to prove her wrong.
Eco-Tourism on the Tillamook Coast
Join us on a captivating journey as a group of Â鶹ÊÓƵ students, led by a passionate staff member, transform their Fall Break into an extraordinary mission of service and discovery. In the picturesque town of Manzanita, Oregon, these dedicated students engage in a unique blend of community service, environmental stewardship, and local exploration, all thanks to an intriguing invitation from the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association.
Activate the Discovery Gene
Once a first-generation college student, now a dedicated member of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's science faculty, Catherine Reinke comes alive when she blends teaching with her research as a cell biologist.
Powered by Determination
Read about Roya Al Hakani ’24 and her transformative journey at Â鶹ÊÓƵ's MEPN program, where her passion for nursing and a diverse educational background converge. From the challenges of balancing family life and intensive studies to the joys of building connections within a diverse cohort, Roya's story is a beacon of inspiration. Discover how Â鶹ÊÓƵ's unique program and supportive community are shaping her future in women's health.
Within Reach
Daughter of a single mother. Sister to a deployed active duty United States Marine. And unable to secure loans to afford a four-year university experience. This is the story of Hannah Waterman - one of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's many prized students.
Yellow Ribbon Eligible? Secure a Full Ride at Â鶹ÊÓƵ
Emily Delo, the coordinator for Veterans Affairs and Student Outreach at Â鶹ÊÓƵ, knows how important VA benefits are for veterans, active-duty personnel and their dependents when selecting a college. With firsthand experience navigating the VA, she serves as a valuable resource for students.
Accomplishing the Unthinkable
After completing two years on the Â鶹ÊÓƵ McMinnville Campus, Maggie Kelley '24 transferred to the School of Nursing on the Portland campus to finish her nursing degree while remaining on the swim team back in McMinnville.
Leading the Cat Zone
Emma Campbell ’24 and Faith Sposito ’24, president and vice president of the Associate Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU), have been two very influential women representing the students of the McMinnville campus.
A Transformative Journey
Sydney Winters '24 is a dedicated Â鶹ÊÓƵ nursing student who has long aspired to work in the medical field. “The nurturing aspect of nursing really resonates with me.”
Meet Student Ambassador Marissa Dolson '24
"The field of psychology is absolutely fascinating. There is so much support in the psychology department from the professors and peers. I am so excited to expand the support system by being a psychology ambassador!"
Meet Psychology Ambassador Adaela Stigile '25
"The psychology department is such a welcoming space, and I can't wait to connect more with incoming and current people."
Meet Student Psychology Ambassador Zee Nace '24
"Now entering my senior year, I recognize that finding your safe space on a college campus isn't about making sure you can fit yourself into every available slot; it's about finding the space that adapts to you too. As a student ambassador, I know psychology isn't everyone's thing, but if you think it might be yours, Â鶹ÊÓƵ's psychology department wants to learn your name and adapt to you too."
A Transfer Student's Triumph
When Mariah Johnston ’25 arrived at Â鶹ÊÓƵ as a transfer student in her second year of college, she found that involvement was easier to achieve than expected. “With class sizes so small and super involved professors, it’s kind of hard not to get involved.”
Lessons From a Wine Bar
Acorn to Oak Wine Experience represents Â鶹ÊÓƵ's priority of hands-on learning. For students like Alyssa Sepulveda '25, education doesn’t just occur in the classroom – it happens in a tasting room that doubles as a learning lab.
A Taste of the Wine Industry
Victor Sandoval '24, a Â鶹ÊÓƵ communication arts major, is gaining real-world experience working in Acorn to Oak Wine Experience, a new tasting room and learning lab in historic downtown McMinnville, OR.
Pairing His Two Passions
While it seems like sports and photography are two different mediums, Jake Downing '25 has put the two together creating a learning environment at Â鶹ÊÓƵ based on his specific interests.
2023-24 M.S. in Business Cohort
Introducing Â鶹ÊÓƵ's 2023-24 Master of Science in business cohort. Now offering three unique concentrations, this one-year program is designed for anyone ready to pursue roles in leadership.
From Commander to Captain
Economics professor Eric Schuck's expertise in operations and logistics doesn't just benefit Â鶹ÊÓƵ students. He was recently promoted from commander to captain in the U.S. Navy Reserve, where he serves as a Supply Corps officer.
Welcoming a New Cohort of Nursing Students
Â鶹ÊÓƵ-Good Samaritan School of Nursing welcomes 79 members of its traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) fall 2023 cohort.
Building Her Dream Through a Summer Internship
Thanks to a unique partnership between Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Office of Career Development and First Federal Savings and Loan, students like Lizeth Quiroz '26 can participate in part-time internships at local nonprofits and earn money for it.
ASLU Portland Campus: 2023-24 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ Portland Campus (ASLU-PC) student government represents all Portland campus School of Nursing students. Meet the ASLU-PC team for 2023-24.
ASLU McMinnville Campus: 2023-24 Student Leadership
The Associated Students of Â鶹ÊÓƵ (ASLU) Cabinet is the executive branch and consists of two elected officers (president and vice president) and six officers. Meet the McMinnville ASLU team for 2023-24.
Composed For Global Success
Music has taken Â鶹ÊÓƵ alumnus Zach Gulaboff Davis ’14 from his home in Salem, Oregon to some of the most amazing places in the world.
One Accounting Firm, Four Â鶹ÊÓƵ Summer Interns
Delap has a history of hiring Â鶹ÊÓƵ students as interns, and Â鶹ÊÓƵ graduates as employees. This summer, four Â鶹ÊÓƵ students are among the firm’s 18 summer interns.
2023 Distinguished Nursing Alumnus Award
Kristen Abbott-Anderson ‘83 is Â鶹ÊÓƵ's 2023 Distinguished Nursing Alumnus Award recipient. What sets Kristen apart from her colleagues and peers in nursing is the impact she has had on her students and the future of nursing.
2023 Outstanding Young Alumnus Award
Rakshya Khatiwada ‘08 has dedicated her life to learning and discovery in the field of physics. As one of Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s international students, her experience is unlike many that have attended Â鶹ÊÓƵ. Her exceptional career is rooted in her uncommon education at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
2023 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Brent Barry ’96 is Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s 2023 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year. He attributes his ability to confront recent crises with composure, courage and intelligence to the lessons he acquired in the classrooms and through participation in athletics at Â鶹ÊÓƵ.
2023 Alumni Service Award
Join us in congratulating Dana (Dancer) Vandecoevering ’83 as this year’s recipient of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Alumni Service Award. She has shown her loyalty to Â鶹ÊÓƵ through the donation of her time, talents and resources.
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