Honoring the Class of 2024

ivy on top of SPU degree frame

Many members of the Class of 2024 spent their first year at SPU attending "Zoom-school" since SPU was still operating largely remotely as the COVID-19 pandemic continued. This class has had to be resilient and adaptable, not only adjusting to the return to in-person learning, but also coping with the numerous challenges facing SPU. These graduates are destined to make their mark on the world, whether as health care practitioners, researchers, field biologists, teachers, or in a number of other professions. The Biology faculty are very proud of all of our graduates, and we will miss their presence at SPU.


Congratulations to the SPU Biology Department Class of 2024!

Asmaa Al-awadi
BS Applied Human Biology
(minor: Psychology)
"Asmaa, you are an inspiration to anyone pursuing grand dreams despite the obstacles. You will be a wonderful practioner!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Itzel Aparicio Saldivar
BS Physiology
"Itzel, you have shown incredible growth and tenacity as a student and researcher. Thank you for gifting us with your time and talents. Good luck in your future endeavours and remember to be fearless and unapologetic in following your passions!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Stacey Bondarchuk
BS Applied Human Biology
"Stacey, I shall miss your cheery personality and your love of all things A&P. You’ve always shown dedication to your studies, a steely determination and a can-do attitude. You will go far!" (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Milan Brkic
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Congratulations, Milan, you made it! I'll miss your big presence in the class and in the lab. The passion and skill that you bring to everything will serve you well in the future. Onward!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Kayla Case
BS Applied Human Biology
(minor: Psychology)
"Kayla, I admire your drive, focus and thorough preparation for class and advising meetings. You have a strong future as a healthcare provider!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Sean Chang
BS Physiology
"Congratulations, Sean! Your future patients are going to appreciate your calm approach. Best wishes for dental school!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Jackie Cheung-Main
BS Physiology
"Jackie, you have overcome a lot, and I greatly admire your perseverance. Thank you for being such an engaged student in my courses!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Mariama Conteh
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Mariama, it has been an absolute pleasure to work with you, both in my courses and in my research lab. You are highly inquisitive and thoughtful, both in the questions you ask and in your responses to questions. Don't lose that curiosity - it will take you far!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Colby Cribbs
BS Physiology
"Colby, it was a pleasure getting to know you. Your drive for excellence in all you do was apparent and I know others have looked at you as a leader. Best of luck in the future, I know you will do amazing things." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Abby Dean
BS Applied Human Biology
(minor: Leadership Studies)
"Abby, it has been a pleasure to watch your progress over many quarters. I know that you will continue to be successful, and your patients will appreciate your smile and positive outlook." (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Jonathan Dean
BS Physiology
"Jonathan, thank you for your hard work and your constant efforts, and for always speaking honestly during BioAnth small groups. It is always wonderful hearing your "voice" and I hope you constantly use it as you move forward in your career." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Abbie Dill
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Abbie, there isn't room to list all the ways that you have made SPU a better place! You have excelled in the classroom and as a tutor, and I am sure that you will continue to enrich others' lives as an excellent dentist." (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Rennie Jane Dupar
BS Physiology
(minors: Studio Arts: 2-D Media; Chemistry)
"Rennie, I am continually impressed by your thoughtfulness in class and dedication to excellence as a student, as well as your willingness to tackle any research challenge. As you launch from SPU, I have no doubt you will do amazing things and make a big impact." (Dr. John Douglass)

Delina Filli
BS Applied Human Biology
"Delina - it's been a delight to get to know you over these past few years. Somehow, whenver I see you, you always seem to be ready with a welcoming and warm smile. Your perseverance and tireless energy are truly inspirational." (Dr. Eric Long)

McKenzie (Red) Fletcher
BS Ecology
"Red, you have endured some crazy adventures, like swimming with sharks and sprinting through airports, and come out on the other side stronger for them. Congratulations on finishing the college adventure." (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Jewel Garcia
BS Biology
BA Honors
"Jewel, it was a joy to watch you organize and carry out your olfactory research project with confidence and poise. I'm very confident you'll be excellent in whatever career you pursue." (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Lilly Garcia
BS Applied Human Biology
"Lilly, you have shown tremendous growth as a student. I especially appreciated your thoughtful participation in class discussions, as well as the deep care and compassion you have demonstrated for others. These quaities will serve you well as a PA!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Kenzie Garrett
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Kenzie, it was great having you in class. You always had a good attitude and loved watching you grow scientifically. Your friendly and warm personality will not be forgotten." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Ashley Goss
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
(minors: Biological Anthropology; Chemistry)
"Ashley, the halls of Eaton will never the same after you leave. Thank you for gifting us with your creativity, passion, authentic personality, and razor-sharp intellect. I cannot wait to see what you'll accomplish after graduating. Congratulations!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Elise Greene
BS Ecology
(minors: Ecotheology; Bioethics and Humanities)
"Elise! You are such a delight in class, lab and the field. Thank you for your constant engagement, your incredible caminacule art (!), and the fun you have learning. Best wishes as you move forward in your career." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Kellie Grover
BS Biology
BA Sociology
BA Honors
"Kellie, you have genuine curiosity that will serve you well in life. Thanks for stimulating great conversation in your classes and keeping us on our toes with your thoughtful questions." (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Sara Hartman
BS Physiology
(minors: Bioethics and Humanities; Chemistry)
"Sara, it was a pleasure having you in my research lab these past 2 years and student worker/TA. You always gave everything 110%. You are not only a phenomenal researcher, but also a amazing person. I know you will do amazing things and change this world. You will be missed." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Kyle Henderson
BS Physiology
BS Ecology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Kyle, thanks for always bringing a smile and a good question to class with you. Your good attitude and willingness to engage in discussion will serve you well. Congratulations!" (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Glory Ibanga
BS Applied Human Biology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Glory, it has been a joy to watch your progress through the dark days of the pandemic to your graduation and a bright future ahead of you. Keep up the good work!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Ellie Jancola
BS Biology
(minors: Chemistry; Ecotheology)
"Ellie, you are a remarkable student and researcher. I am sad to see you go (the animals will miss you too!) but am excited to hear about the amazing things you will do next. Good luck!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Keton Johnson
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Keton, I have loved having you in my classes and getting to know you. Your engagement in the course material was evident and I have enjoyed watching you grow scientifically. I know you will do great things in the future." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Lauryn Keith
BS Physiology
BA French and Francophone Studies
"Lauryn, it has been a pleasure getting to know you these past few years. You have not only grown scientifically, but in your leadership skills. I am proud of you and all the hurdles you have overcome to get here. You have a lot to offer and I am so excited to see you impact this world for the better." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Maddie Knoke
BS Applied Human Biology
"Maddie, I enjoyed how open and engaged you were during small group time in BioAnth. Thank you for taking advantage of learning opportunities and making the most of those conversations. I will miss your lively engagement." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Natalie Korolenko
BS Applied Human Biology
"Natalie, it was so wonderful to have you in class, and to see you out on the water! I enjoyed all our conversations in BioAnth, and reading your reflections on how awesome women's bones are. :) Very best wishes to you as you move forward in your careers." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Grant Kwong
BS Physiology
(minor: Honors)
"Grant, it was amazing to have you in my classes and witness your perserverance and dedication towards reaching your career goals. Thank you for the thoughtful questions and conversations. Congratulations with your graduations and best of luck in pharmacy school!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Bre Lee
BS Applied Human Biology
(minor: Psychology)
"Bre, your growth as a student has been amazing to witness. For whatever you choose to apply these new skills and your perserverance to, I know that it will produce incredible results. Well done and congratulations!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Ava Liebendorfer
BS Ecology
"Ava, it has been inspiring watching your interest in biology develop over the years, first as an oceanography student, then to ecology, and then to research. I'm excited for your future in whichever direction you decide to go." (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Kaitlyn Liu
BS Physiology
BA Chemistry
(minors: Cultural Anthropology; Philosophy)
"Kaitlyn! From our very first Zoom advising meeting you fully impressed me with your abilities and competence. You are a joy to have in a class, a stellar TA, and an engaged researcher. You have brought the standards of learning up to the highest level and you will be greatly missed in and around Eaton." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Araceli Lopez Patino
BS Physiology
(minors: Ecotheology; Chemistry)
"Araceli, it has been wonderful to get to know you and have you in my classes. You always had a smile on your face and were ready to learn. You have demonstrated great scientific growth since when I first met you and am excited to see what the future holds for you. I know your future is bright!" (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Andre' Marineau
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Andre', thank you for being a part of the lab and adapting to the challenges of basic research. As an excellent student and awesome TA, you have made SPU a better institution. Good luck on your career journey and congratulations!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Jessica Martinez
BA Life Science
"Jessica, Congratulations on your graduation! I'm pleased that you kept working toward your goals and never gave up. I know that your hard work will pay off!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Yolanda Matias-Mendoza
BS Applied Human Biology
"Yolanda, it has been wonderful having you in my classes. I have enjoyed getting to know you and loved watching you grow scientifically. You always were engaged in class and worked hard. I wish you the best in your future and know you will do great things." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Sydney McDonnell
BS Applied Human Biology
"Sydney, I am glad I was able to have you as a student in my courses. You have strong analytical skills, and are able to view problems (and their solutions) from multiple perspectives. Whether you find your career niche in forensics or in other areas of science, I have no doubt you will have a significant impact." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Hannah McSwain
BS Ecology
(minor: Appropriate & Sustainable Engineering)
"Hannah, I've so enjoyed your positive energy in class and diligence on your research project. I'm confident that you'll be an excellent healthcare provider!" (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Meridiana Mendez
BS Physiology
(minor: Spanish Heritage)
"Congratulations, graduating BioCORE Scholar! Meridiana, you have shown resilience, persistence and true grit. I’m excited for your bright future in medicine!" (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Gum Nau
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Gum, what a pleasure it has been to get to know you. It's been fun to watch you grow in the classroom and lab. Your enthusiasm and engaging personality will make you a force to be reckoned with! " (Dr. Ryan Ferrer)

Eloisa Nguyen
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Eloisa, it was a joy knowing you and having you as a student. You always engaged in the classroom and showed great work ethic. Your sweet and fun personality was infectious to me and those around you. I will miss you but I know you will do great things." (Dr. Tracie Delgado)

Lay Paw
BS Cellular and Molecular Biology
BA Honors
(minor: Chemistry)
"Congratulations, graduating BioCORE Scholar and Peer Mentor! Lay, you have excelled in all fields, academically in class and in lab research. You deserve every success! Thanks also for your creativity as our social media co-ordinator in BioCORE." (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Sydney Perry
BS Applied Human Biology
(minor: Psychology)
"Sydney, it was so lovely getting to know you in BioAnth. Thank you for all your hard work, your engaging questions, and your compassionate voice during class. Your active participation in small groups was outstanding and I look forward to hearing about all your accomplishments looking forward." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Megan Popielak
BS Biology
"Megan! It has been so joyous having you as a student in every term and watching you blossom during research. Your answers to questions during Erickson were fantastic and you have embodied the student-athlete experience here. It has been wonderful watching you grow and I can't wait to hear what is next for you." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Spencer Raymond
BS Ecology
"Spencer, no one takes on a challenge like you do. Your tenacity as a researcher and thinker has brightened our office, our classes, and our labs here and you have been greatly missed already around the halls of Eaton." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Janetta Redzic
BA Life Science
"Janetta, Congratulations on your graduation! I admire your strong motivation and willingness to forge your own path. Stay strong!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Krysta Reese
BS Ecology
(minors: Ecotheology; Honors)
"Krysta, you are a star both academically in class, and as a community builder on campus. Your work as a BioCORE LA has changed lives. Thanks for your creativity and leadership. It’s been such a pleasure seeing you shine." (Dr. Elena Brezynski)

Lucy Sandahl
BS Physiology
"Lucy, it has been a pleasure to get to know you in class and through our advising sessions. You have shown excellent time management skills in balancing both crew and coursework, and these skills will allow you to shine as you continue to work toward a career in animal rehabilitation." (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Megan Sides
BS Biology
(minor: Studio Arts: 2-D Media)
"Megan! Obviously your skills know no bounds! We are so grateful for the ways in which you bring your creativity and intelligence to every part of life here in Eaton. You make every trip into nature more delightful with your presence." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Matthew Smith
BS Ecology
"Matthew, thank you for taking on challenge after challenge and bringing wit and humor to every one. It has been so wonderful to watch you grow and to read your thoughtful essays, questions and feedback. I would never have known so much about kangaroo locomotion with you." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Olivia Stewart
BS Ecology
(minor: Ecotheology)
"Olivia - from the forests of Blakely to the beaches of Belize to the lab benches of good ole Eaton Hall, it's been a delight to work with you over these past few years. Congratulations on wrapping up your ecology degree (in 3 years!)." (Dr. Eric Long)

Caleb Struve
BA Life Science
"Caleb, it has been a pleasure to get to know you in class and in my research lab. Just as your PCR experiments required a lot of troubleshooting, so too does figuring out your career niche. It takes a lot of courage to shift gears, and I look forward to seeing where your new path takes you!" (Dr. Jenny Tenlen)

Graysen Swanson
BA Life Science
(minors: Chemistry; Honors)
"Graysen, you have demonstrated great persistence and a dedication to excellence. Thank you for being a part of our program. Good luck with your next step in education and achieving your career goals. You will be amazing!" (Dr. John Douglass)

Jasmine Tran
BS Applied Human Biology
"Jasmine, you balance so much! I am constantly in awe of how you bring clarity of mind to each new learning situation. Your efforts and work are a source of inspiration." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)

Alejandro Uribe
BS Physiology
(minor: Chemistry)
"Congratulations, Alejandro! I am confident that your dedication and hard work will continue to bring you success. It has been a privilege to watch your progress!" (Dr. Charlotte Pratt)

Felicity Young
BS Biology
"Felicity, you have such an eye for looking out for others. Thank you for your constant thoughtfulness and caring of your peers and for the extra effort you put into projects." (Dr. Cara Wall-Scheffler)