MEET THE 25 DUCKS
Graduate Student, June 2024
Major: Community and Regional Planning
How do you want to change the world?:
More inclusion and human-scaled spaces. Providing access to physical places for whoever wants to use them, increases safety and joy.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
The PPPM equity initiative, the Film Festival through LiveMove, the Geography department as a GE, and the Sisters Sustainable City Year Program.
Who is your biggest role model and why?: My biggest role models are community
organizers fighting for BIPOC and FTWNB access to bikes through art and platforming challenges and successes for diverse identities on bikes in this country. Christina Torres, who organizes the cyclist zine, is a hero of mine.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Annabeth Chase from Percy Jackson.
What are your goals after college?:
Continue to care for a community and get a dog.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I knew how, but didn’t start caring for or riding bikes until I was 22.
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to create a world in which every person has the resources and opportunities that they need to thrive. I am particularly passionate about issues that impact children and youth. I would like to work to create a K-12 education system that prioritizes the wellbeing of every student.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
The Holden Center, First-Year Programs, Wayne Morse Scholars, SAIL, The Prison Education Program.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
Malala Yousafzai, for standing by her beliefs despite incredibly challenging circumstances and inspiring others with care, humility, and principled leadership.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Ferris Bueller.
What are your goals after college?:
I would like to work in higher education and/ or law!
What is one fun fact about you?:
I am left-handed.
Anjali Mishra
Senior, June 2023
Major: Sociology
Minor: Political Science and Ethnic Studies
Annie Price
Sophomore, June 2025
Major: Product Design
How do you want to change the world?:
I believe the world can be changed with small, repeated acts of kindness and generosity between individuals. Especially in the digital age we live in, I feel that we can always be kinder to one another and that it can be the driving force for supporting progressive change in our communities. While it sounds cheesy, I think positivity is one of the most overlooked tools for changing the world.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am most proud of the involvement I’ve had with the UO Climbing Team this year as a member of leadership, primarily as treasurer and recently as president. Providing a space for climbers to come together in pursuit of athletic improvement and community connection brings me incredible joy. The
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world by making every space I am in a more inclusive one. I want every voice I hear to be valued and respected, every idea heard and considered. I want fairness and ethics to be priority ideals of mine in everything I do going forward, and I want to impart these ideals to every person whose path I cross. I don’t want to change the world by doing something, I want to change the world by being something I and the people in my life are proud of.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am proud to have been involved with several student organizations on campus. In the University of Oregon Mock Trial program, I was able to compete alongside the best in the country, making friends for life
and learning countless valuable lessons along the way. Through the Public Relations Student Society of America, Duck TV, Writing Central, and my job in the Dean’s office I was able to immerse myself in all my major and the School of Journalism and Communications had to offer. I was given experiences like working for World Athletics and seeing my work plastered all over campus. My time with these organizations at the University of Oregon is something I will never forget.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is my older sister, Julia. She is the greatest professor I could ever have in this course we call life. Everything I have learned is from her.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Rey from Star Wars!
Climbing Team here is something special and I am beyond proud of every single member. The design community is another space I’ve found myself proud to be involved. It has been fabulously gratifying to watch the growth of my peers and myself throughout our studio classes over the last two years. I am also proud to be a member of the Industrial Designer’s Society of America and witness the impact that a group of dedicated students can have.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
Matt Fraser is one of my greatest role models. Although he is known for his athletic achievement, I admire him for his ethos Hard Work Pays Off. He speaks often of the unseen hard work that must go into achievement and acknowledges how hard it is to sacrifice elements of your life to attain certain goals. These approaches have helped me get through a
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I plan to take a gap year before attending law school. Or before getting a job in public relations. Only time will tell!
What is one fun fact about you?:
I was born in Kailua, Oahu in Hawai’i!
multitude of things in my own life.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I’d say I’m quite similar to Chidi Anagonye from The Good Place, anxious but I always have the best intentions when trying to make a decision.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, my primary goal is to achieve a work-life balance in the notoriously overworked field of design. It is my dream to design for the outdoor industry with brands like Patagonia, North Face, and Arc’teryx. I would also like to travel around the world after college and experience cultures vastly different than the one I have grown up in.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I was voted most likely to be a secret agent in high school.
Senior, June 2023
Major: Public Relations
Minor: Legal Studies and Ethics
Anna Koebel
Anna Mueller
Senior, June 2023
Major: Advertising
Minor: Business Administration
How do you want to change the world?:
When I started college, specifically my advertising major, I did not know how I was going to use my degree. I thought advertising was interesting and a place I could be creative, but I did not realize the impact I could have. Advertising is what connects brands to people, and I have an opportunity to change the way we, as people, communicate with brands, companies, and organizations. I value integrity, so whatever I can do in the world of advertising to live in a more honest world, I plan to do so!
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am so proud to have held leadership positions at both the Daily Emerald and Allen Hall Advertising. These two media outlets have exposed me to so much real-world practice that
How do you want to change the world?:
In my career, I would like to positively impact the world by helping mission-driven companies and organizations solve societal and environmental issues. Within my personal life, I would like to make a difference by treating everyone I meet with respect and kindness. I believe that one of the best ways to make a viable impact on the world is to start with the way you treat the people around you. One small act of kindness can go so much further than we all realize.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
During my time at UO, I am very proud to have been involved in leadership roles within the International Business and Economics Club as well as the Dean’s Council for Inter-Club Coordination. UO provides such rich opportunities for
students to get involved in communities on campus. Within these communities, I strived to promote safe and inclusive spaces for self-expression and community discussion, which I believe are incredibly important for student growth and development.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is my father who embodies many gracious and respectable traits that I aspire to emulate. I have grown up shadowing his work in the hospitality and tourism industry. Through this work, he has taught me that promoting a healthy culture within an organization is fundamental for success. A true leader is kind and compassionate, walking hand in hand with the communities they serve. He has also taught me that, if done correctly, incorporating sustainability and volunteer work into a business model can be just as impactful
I am so thankful to be leaving college with! Not only did I get to flex my account executive/ manager muscles, but I was also able to lead juniors under me. I’m so grateful for all of the support I received over the years.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role models are my parents. I look up to them in so many ways and they really are what led me to be so successful in college. Their constant encouragement and leadership by example helped me get to graduation. Whether it was random phone calls throughout the week to hear how things were going, or coming down to support me and my roommates at the Eugene Marathon, they are the prime example of the parents I hope to be for my kids someday. I owe it all to you, Mom and Dad!
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
to the well-being of the company and employees as for the community and environment that they serve.
What are your goals after college?:
My goal after college is to chase every opportunity that brings me joy and that allows me to leave the world a better place than I found it.
What is one fun fact about you?:
One fun fact about me is that I like to challenge myself to do things outside of my comfort zone! I have learned that personal discomfort leads to beautiful elements of selfgrowth. As a result, I have been fortunate enough to go skydiving twice and live a semester abroad in France.
Michael Scott is the fictional character I most resonate with. His liveliness in the office and friendship-first mentality are something I look up to! Scott is a people person; he values his employees and customers and really knows how to celebrate!
What are your goals after college?:
My goals after college are to travel and find something I love to do! Life is too short to be stuck behind a desk so I hope to be able to find something I am so passionate about that work won’t feel like work.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I’m a middle sister! Sandwiched between two girls, I have learned so much about relationships and negotiating from just my family. I’ve applied everything I learned from home in my jobs and has made me a successful arbiter and communicator.
Audrey Youngblood
Senior, June 2023
Major: Business Administration
Minor: French and Planning, Public Policy, and Management
Amy Menendez
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Brittany Grenbemer
Senior, June 2023
Major: Psychology
How do you want to change the world?:
I believe that education is one of the highest forms of activism and that change begins in our schools. I am incredibly passionate about teaching for social justice and want to change the world by inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in all that they do. In all that I do, I want to be a culturally responsive educator and work towards systematic reform of an education system that can undermine students of underrepresented groups.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I’m incredibly proud of my involvement in Delta Delta Delta sorority at the University of Oregon. I have held various positions on our officer slate but served most recently as the Vice President of Chapter Programming and Development.
I have also thoroughly enjoyed my time as a member of the University of Oregon Aspiring Educators. UO AE provided me with the chance to serve as one of Oregon’s first aspiring educator voting delegates at the Oregon Education Association’s Representative Assembly.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is my mother. An educator in a Title 1 district for 35 years, she has truly paved the way for my passion for education to blossom. She is my biggest inspiration to do what I do every day, and I hope to someday be half as incredible of an educator as she is.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Definitely Hermione Granger. Hermione is a spunky, high achiever who cares quite a lot about her intellect, but she’s
also not afraid to challenge anyone who underestimates her. I resonated with her a lot when I was growing up.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I will be continuing my time at the University of Oregon in the UOTeach graduate program, where I will be working towards my M.E.d. in Curriculum and Teaching, as well as my Oregon Teaching Licensure. From there, I want to work in a Title 1 school in Oregon, as I am passionate about giving back to rural, low-income communities like the one that raised me. I would eventually love to pursue a career in higher education as a professor of education.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I grew up in a fish hatchery on top of the Santiam Pass. The town’s population was 7, and my family was 4 of them!
How do you want to change
the world?:
I want to add a little more kindness to the world. It will be a life well lived if I can make just one person’s life better by treating them with kindness and respect. I hope I can use my time to make others feel heard, seen, and valued. I want to make a difference in the lives of others around me, even if it is through a simple smile or conversation over a cup of coffee.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
While at the University of Oregon, I have been involved in several on-campus clubs which have allowed me to create meaningful relationships and stretch myself as a leader. I am the elected Vice President for the PPPM Student Community Organization (SCO) for the 20222023 school year. SCO is an undergraduate club that creates
professional development and community-building opportunities for the Planning, Public Policy, and Management student body. I was also the Media Director for the Oregon Entrepreneurship Group from 2021-2023.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is my father. He is one of the most hard-working and accomplished people I know. Although his work is demanding and requires a lot from him, he always makes time for our family. When I lived at home, he prioritized spending his day off with the family and taking an interest in the things that excited me. He leads with honor, confidence, and care. I want to be a leader, and when I have my own family, be a parent like my father.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Rapunzel, from Tangled, is the fictional character that is most like me. Similar to Rapunzel, I desire to go on adventures and explore the world. The trait that makes me most similar to Rapunzel is my love for singing. I am constantly humming or singing tunes around my house, on walks, and with my friends.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I hope to work in the field of higher education development. I believe development is a field where I can connect passionate donors with opportunities to positively impact students. There are several units within the higher education structure that I am interested in fundraising for.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I have dual citizenship! I am both a U.S. and Swiss citizen.
Charis Rieder
Senior, June 2023
Major: Planning, Public Policy, and Management
Olivia Baker
Senior, June 2023
Major: Family Human Services
Minor: Sociology
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to work in Human Services and help people who need it.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am proud to have spent my time working at the Vivian Olum Child Development Center since 2021.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role models are my mom and dad, they are very hard-working people who are also very supportive no matter what.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Jenna Rink from 13 Going on 30!
What are your goals after college?:
My goals after college are to enter the workforce, working with people in the Human Services field.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I am from Lincoln City Oregon, on the beach!
Senior, June 2023
Major: Neuroscience
Minor: Chemistry
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world by addressing the barriers that minority populations face in accessing quality health care. In particular, I hope to improve the availability and quality of mental and physical health services for children and youth in the foster care system. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life, regardless of their socioeconomic background or circumstances, and I want to have an active role in making that a reality.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am proud to have been involved in ASUO as a representative and advocate for the student body. As the ASUO Senate President, I was fortunate to be part of several initiatives that directly addressed the basic needs
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to close the opportunity gap and create a world where everyone can thrive however they choose. Equity is my North Star and as a queer, fem-bodied person of color, furthering equity is not only a moral imperative for me, it is at the core of my success. Studying Planning, Public Policy, and Management (PPPM) at the University of Oregon allowed me to work with nonprofit organizations, governments, and companies to combat social inequality.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
My proudest achievement at the UO was being added to the curriculum of my UO Honors course. In the Honors College class “Narratives of Revenge,” I spent a term researching how cultural trauma is represented in Park Chan-Wook’s Revenge
Trilogy. With Professor Casimir’s encouragement and support, I continued my research the following year and published my research paper, Reopening Wounds: Processing Korean Cultural Trauma in Park Chanwook’s Oldboy and Sympathy for Lady Vengeance. I was honored when Dr. Casimir shared that he was adding my article to the curriculum for the course.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
I don’t have one particular role model for my life, but I am continually inspired by people who have been shaped by adversity as well as other people my age who are also doing amazing things. Being abroad this last year has also opened my eyes to the many different ways people and cultures achieve a “successful” life.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I wasn’t sure which character
of our community. I am also proud to have been a research assistant under the guidance of Dr. Elliot Berkman in the Social and Affective Neuroscience Lab, where I learned how to formulate meaningful research questions and apply my knowledge to realworld problems.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role models are my parents, Tim and Linda O’Connor, who are the most selfless and inspiring people I know. My parents changed my life the day they chose to adopt me, and every day since, they have made sure that I grew up with the love and assurance that I needed to become the best version of myself. I know that no matter what I do, I have their unwavering love and support, and for that, I will always be grateful.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I believe I am most like Winnie the Pooh who is known for his contentment with the simple pleasures of life. Winnie the Pooh reminds me to always make time for my friends, enjoy the beauty of nature, and indulge in the occasional yummy snack.
What are your goals after college?:
Next year, I will be attending Georgetown University to pursue a Masters in Physiology. I plan to begin medical school the following year. As a doctor, I hope to collaborate with other doctors, researchers, and policymakers to improve access to quality health services for underserved communities.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I was stung by a jellyfish when I was eight and I still have the scar on my arm.
I am so I crowd-sourced and the overwhelming favorite was Boss Baby. That being said my favorite answer was Reyna Ramírez-Arellano from “The Heroes of Olympus” series and is a Roman demigod, specifically the daughter of Bellona the Roman goddess of war.
What are your goals after college?:
My greatest goal is to apply what I have learned from my degree, my thesis, and my work in community engagement to create community-tailored solutions to advance equity. My greatest hope is that I can find a career that would allow me to travel the world while also being able to address systemic problems.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I am a huge Lord of the Rings fan. I even painted a mural of the Shire on my bedroom wall.
Emma Koontz
Junior, June 2024
Major: Planning, Public Policy, and Management
Claire O’Connor
Estella Rosen
Senior, June 2023
Major: Political Sceince and Spanish
Certificate in Educational Foundations in Secondary Education
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world as a teacher. Because of all of the amazing teachers that I have had in my life, I want to be able to be that person for students. Teaching is such an honorable profession, being there to help to support young people of the next generation, and I hope to inspire a lifelong love of learning in my students which will then allow them to change the world as well.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I’ve been a part of so many incredible things on campus!
I have loved my time on the Student Alumni Association Leadership team, being President of the UO Rotaract Club (and being in the club for all 4 years), being a SOSer with Student Orientation Programs,
and being a Get Explicit 101 facilitator with UO SVPE.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is my grandma Freda. She was such a strong woman who was persistent and passionate. Because her family needed her to work when she was young, she was unable to go to college, but at 65, she went to get her bachelor’s and got her Master’s at 67 so that she could be a therapist and help people. She was an incredible example of female empowerment at a time when it wasn’t popular.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I would say that I’m most similar to Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation. She’s always busy with a million things, a bit of a perfectionist, ambitious, and so optimistic!
What are your goals after college?:
After graduation, I’m moving to Madrid, Spain to go teach English and I’m hoping to return fluent in Spanish! My goal is to be able to travel to new countries and find a great career that I’m passionate about and love doing!
What is one fun fact about you?:
One fun fact about me is that I have been to 23 countries and 20+ national parks!
How do you want to change the world?:
I simply want to make my community, my state, my country, and whatever jurisdiction I’m in, better than how I found it. I think that starts by challenging the status quo and not sitting idly by as things that my generation and I care about go unfixed or unchanged. Too often young people are told to sit down and wait their turn, when it comes to issues like the climate crisis, mass shootings, and housing affordability, etc. if we are forced to wait until the stereotypical “right time/age” these issues could be too far gone to salvage.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
Being able to work as a Graduate Employee and teach Intro to Public Policy is a topic near and dear to me. Having lived and breathed public policy since
I was 18 through my work in and around government, it was gratifying to be able to utilize my knowledge to help encourage others to be passionate about policy and affecting change.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
Cecil Andrus. The only four-term governor in Idaho’s history, he was born in Eugene and moved to Idaho for work. When he got there he realized that the schools his daughters attended were subpar, and the sitting representative said “They were good enough for me, they’re good enough for them,” and did nothing to help improve schools. Cece said to hell with that and ran for state senate at 27 and went on to become governor and Secretary of the Interior. He never let challenges phase him or hurdles get in his way, he always worked to improve the lives of those around him. He was true to himself and always did what was right.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Ben Wyatt — we were both elected to local office at 18 — though, my term did not end in an impeachment after bankrupting the town by building a winter sports complex.
What are your goals after college?:
Continue my work as the National Political Director for the Democratic Municipal Officials as we elect more Democratic mayors and city councilors across the country. I also look forward to continuing my work as a board member for the Eugene Parks Foundation to improve Eugene’s Parks for today and tomorrow.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I started hosting trivia during my sophomore year of high school.
Jesse Maldonado
Graduate
Student,
June 2023
Master’s of Public Administration
Helen Ingraham Tuttle
Senior, June 2023
Major: Folklore and Sociology
Minor: Anthropology
How do you want to change the world?:
I believe strongly in the power of community. By bringing people together and forming relationships, I believe that we can build a more empathetic, nurturing, and communicative society. I hope to be able to bring those values out into the world and foster them through my own actions and community involvement, as well as in my professional and academic career.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I feel proud to have been a member and leader of Connect the Ducks for three years. Through planning student events, I could see how excited people got each week and the lasting impacts and friendships built over time. Very little makes me more satisfied in my professional career than
How do you want to change the world?:
Above everything, I hope to change the world by constantly practicing kindness and being a supporter who advocates for others to pursue their future goals and endeavors. I believe these simple actions can go a long way and create a more inclusive and safe place for everyone.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I’m proud to have been involved in different clubs/programs during college however I have been the most proud of being able to serve on the executive boards of Muxeres (3 years) and Womxn of Color Coalition (2 years) as I helped to build a safe place and community for womxn of color as we are in a predominately white institution. I have done this by hosting meetings surrounding topics
that impact our community both off and on campus. My time at the University of Oregon has been incredibly meaningful and has made me a strong leader.
I am eternally grateful for the opportunities, knowledge, and peers it has brought to me.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is my mom, Maria! She is incredibly hardworking and has taught me how to be strong and has always encouraged me to pursue any endeavors. She’s my pillar and I know that she will always be in my corner alongside my brother, father, and dog.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I feel like I’m most like Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games! A lot of the acts they do are selfless and out of care for others. They also have immense
someone who is clearly excited and enjoying themselves at an event. I’m also proud of my Substance Abuse Prevention and Education (SAPE) teamwork. We approached questions and topics that are difficult to talk about, but critical to the health and safety of campus. I hope that the work we did through tabling campaigns, presentations and workshops, and naloxone training helped improve the wellness of even a small portion of campus.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
The public librarians at my local library branch in Portland. They encouraged my love of reading growing up and gave me my first space to begin community volunteer work when I was just 11. I admire the work, knowledge, skill, and genuine kindness that I have experienced throughout the course of my life from libraries.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I’d love to be the town witch who lives in a crumbling old house at the end of the street.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I’ll be attending law school at the University of Oregon! I hope to maybe read some new horror novels over the summer before it begins.
What is one fun fact about you?:
In my free time, I love to build miniature houses!
compassion for others despite the hard cards they were dealt.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I will be pursuing a master’s in College Student Services and Administration at Oregon State University. Once I graduate from OSU, I hope to work at a higher institution to work in any avenue that will allow me to advocate for underrepresented students.
What is one fun fact about you?:
One fun fact about me is that I hate musicals but I love Hamilton and I’ve seen it twice! Once at the Hult Center and the second on Broadway! If you ever saw me working hard at the library or around the campus...chances are I was listening to Hamilton.
Senior, June 2023
Major: Political Sceince and Spanish
Minor: Latinx Studies, Legal Studies, Nonprofit Administration, and Media Studies
Jennifer Linares
Senior, March 2023
Major:
How do you want to change the world?:
I plan to help reimagine our current infrastructure to better support the needs of our society as a whole.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am proud to have gotten the opportunity to be involved with the Sustainable Cities Institute and the Infographics Lab at the University of Oregon.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
One of my role models is Eleanor Roosevelt. I appreciate the political and social influence she had both as First Lady of the United States and as “First Lady of the World.” I enjoy this quote from her, “You can often change your circumstances by changing your attitude.” —Eleanor Roosevelt
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I consider myself to be most like Superwoman because I wear many hats with grace and style. I am a sister, a daughter, a wife, a mother, and a student. I have successfully incorporated these numerous hats into my wardrobe with a unique balance.
What are your goals after college?:
After I complete my bachelor’s degree I plan to continue my studies at the University of Oregon and receive my master’s in Community and Regional Planning.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I have traveled to 23 states in a 1973 Volkswagen bus.
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world by sharing diverse stories and promoting democracy through public service journalism propelled by my own lived experiences with housing insecurity, income disparities, and mental health stigmatization.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am proud to have been a peer mentor for the TRiO program on campus, serving fellow non-traditional students as a resource and sounding board. I am also proud to have been involved with independent student media as the Editor-inChief of the Daily Emerald, as well as through my work as a staff writer for Green Eugene.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role model is Jon Stewart because he shares news and engages with stories in such an immersive way that audiences can really feel like they relate to his coverage. I hope to one day embody just a bit of the quick wit and charisma he has.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
The fictional character most like myself is probably Ted Lasso since he’s a kind southern human trying his best in a new place while leading a great team.
What are your goals after college?:
I hope to work in a local newsroom to get back into hands-on reporting and grow my professional skills.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I have a one-eyed Chihuahua named Gracie.
Senior, June 2023
Major: Journalism
Minor: Digital Humanities
Hannahrose McGuinness
Sierra Rodreguez-Torres
Planning, Public Policy, and Management
Get your masters. Between walks. graduate.wou.edu Graduate Programs Graduate Programs
John Michael Rinen
Senior, June 2023
Major: General Social Sceinces with Concentration in Applied Economics, Business, and Society
Minor: Sports Business
How do you want to change the world?:
Change is inevitable and with change comes big ideas. I’ve learned that understanding each other for who we are and where we come from is such an important asset. I want to make a change by spreading aloha (love) with everyone. There is never too much love in the world and continuing to share kindness will open the future to a life full of happiness and joy. A simple smile or hello can go a long way.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
Hui ‘O Hawai’i has been my heart and soul throughout my college journey. They have supported me through thick and thin. Home is 2,000+ miles away and to have a welcoming ‘Ohana (family) here at the University of Oregon to support me in building lifetime relationships by hosting many events throughout the
How do you want to change the world?:
Throughout my upbringing, I have always been drawn to a life of creating meaningful change, so pursuing an undergraduate degree in Family and Human Services and Sociology, and following this with a Master’s in Prevention Science, has given me the foundation to affect positive outcomes in community settings. Specifically, I aim to work in the education setting and prevent adverse social and emotional outcomes among all social identities to ensure all adolescents are given an equitable opportunity to obtain an education.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
Since my freshman year at UO, I have been a part of the genderinclusive A cappella group, Mind the Gap. Coming into college, I was not in great health; despite
this, I was welcomed into this community with open arms and I can confidently say that this group has changed my course for the better. I have served as a leader for three years in this group and have been given multiple professional and personal development opportunities. This group has taught me the transformative value of community and belonging and I am immensely grateful to have had this experience.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My sister, Emily. Throughout my life, I have always looked to her for guidance and, even through adversity, she has been determined to find joy and fulfillment.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Steven Universe.
academic school year. We have continued to uphold our mission statement in supporting our Hawai’i Ducks as they migrate, build community, and soar out into the world.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My parents have played a big factor in my life; I look up to them and they are my number one fans. Being a first-generation student has been nothing but a journey. My parents never had a chance to receive a degree, and instead worked hard for our family and would often put others’ happiness before theirs. I aspire to be as patient, humble, and hard-working as them.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I would say Winnie the Pooh is most like me. I’ve grown up reading and watching his tales and seeing them from a different
What are your goals after college?:
Working in Prevention Services with adolescents and emerging adults.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I have an orange tabby cat named Toblerone who has been with me throughout my journey at UO.
point of view, and I believe that we share a lot in common. Both Pooh and I view the world from a positive side of things and look at situations from a glass-halffull standpoint.
What are your goals after college?:
Over the years, my career path was set on management within hospitality and tourism. After being involved in campus visits and recruitment as a UO Ambassador, Multicultural Recruiter, and Student Coordinator, I found a new passion for student affairs. I plan to return to school after a gap year and receive a master’s degree either in Business Administration or Educational Leadership.
What is one fun fact about you?:
A more debatable fun fact about me would be that I pour my milk first before pouring my cereal.
Katie Leonard
Graduate Student, June 2023 Major: Prevention Science
Lauryn Lilly
Senior, June 2023
Major:Political Science
Minor: Media Studies
How do you want to change the world?:
No matter what my future holds, I hope to change the world by making an impact in my local community and prioritizing and encouraging service. I hope to show others the value of service and model that by working to better the lives of others. I also hope to spread lots of laughter and joy anywhere I go!
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am the most proud to have been involved with The Holden Center for Leadership and Community Engagement. I’ve worked there for 3 years and done service there for 4 years. I am proud to have been able to help inspire others and empower them as leaders. In my roles, I’ve gotten to work closely with leaders all across campus, and I love helping our student body realize their full potential. I feel
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to work with underserved communities to create multifaceted health programs that community members themselves find meaningful, are culturally informed, and support not only the physical health but also the happiness and well-being of underserved or underrepresented groups in ways they express a need for and lead.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I’m really proud of the work I’ve done in Dr. Josh Snodgrass’ Global Health Biomarker Laboratory here at the UO. Not only have I been able to conduct my own research, but I’ve also been able to contribute to a variety of projects that include the World Health Organization’s World Health Survey Plus project and volunteer training for a local
health fair that provides free fingerstick blood tests to Eugene community members. The lab has built my academic skills but also encouraged a service focus in projects that I’ve found really meaningful.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My mom is my biggest role model! She’s a hard worker and a lifelong learner, but she also goes out of her way to care for others. She always supports those around her in achieving their goals, but she also saves time for herself, her friends, and her family to do things like volunteer, run, and garden, which is a balance I really admire and strive towards. Plus, I love my mom.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I would have to say Kermit the Frog. I am not a frog, but I recognize and appreciate
so passionate about the work we do, and also feel so inspired to work with incredible student and professional staff members.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My biggest role models are my parents. I call them every single day, and they never fail to give me advice and share their infinite wisdom. They both have accomplished so much in their lives and work so hard, but still remember not to take life too seriously. I don’t know what I’d do without them, and I’m really grateful to have such a great relationship with them.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I am definitely a mix of Leslie Knope and April Ludgate from Parks and Rec. I have Leslie Knope’s drive, enthusiasm for life, and dedication to her passions, and I definitely have April’s sass and wit. I also have
Kermit’s pragmatic attitude. Like Kermit, I like having a plan, but also like Kermit, those plans often get derailed. While I enjoy working in leadership roles, I’m also happy to step out of the spotlight and be a supportive team player, which I admire about Kermit’s character. As a fellow lover of green, I connect with and see myself in Kermit.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I hope to receive a Master’s degree at the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge in a global healthrelated field, and then plan on volunteering with the Peace Corps before applying to global health Ph.D. programs in a few years.
What is one fun fact about you?:
I ran the 100-meter hurdles for one year in middle school.
some Elle Woods qualities. What are your goals after college?:
I am not sure what the future holds for me, but I hope to pursue a career path in higher education after graduation and am considering law school further down the road. Regardless of what I end up doing, I know I want to work directly with others and ensure I am doing something meaningful that makes a difference in my community. In the near future, I also hope to complete a full marathon!
What is one fun fact about you?:
A fun fact about me is that I have so many song lyrics unintentionally committed to memory. I can listen to a song a few times and know almost all the words, and this song lyric knowledge extends to nearly every genre!
Madeleine Getz
Junior, June 2024
Clark Honors College
Major: Anthropology
Minor: Global Health, Global Service, Disability Studies, and Science Communication
Maiya Schulz
Senior, June 2023
Major: Educational Foundations and Spanish
Minor: Special Education
Certification for Second Language Acquisition and Teaching
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world by inspiring younger generations to work hard and follow their dreams. If more people realized their full potential, the world, and society can reach new heights.
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world by teaching the next generation. I want to have a part in shaping the next generation to be kinder, thoughtful, caring, and intelligent people. I think that in order to really see a change in our world you have to start at the root of the issue and being able to help boost the confidence and self-worth of the next generation will help make the world a better place.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I have been most proud to be a part of the Education Foundations program at the University of Oregon. I think the program is creating amazing teachers, principals, and so much more that will go on to make our schools better places. I have made such great friends within this program and I would
have learned the importance and value of a liberal arts education.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
not change that for the world. Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My mom inspires me to work hard for my dreams and that if I want it bad enough there is a way for me to make it happen. My dad has shown me the importance of listening and leading with love and compassion in all parts of life. My grandma was the one who made me want to be a teacher because I got the amazing opportunity to watch her teach and see the light she brought to the lives of her students. My brother has shown me not to take life too seriously and that there is space for laughter and joy in every moment. And my roommates have shown me what constant support and true joy for others’ achievements are.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I am most like Mulan because I fight for myself and don’t let
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I think that I share traits of independence and composure with James Bond.
someone telling me I can’t do something stop me from doing it. I am also quite stubborn, to a fault sometimes.
What are your goals after college?:
My goals after undergrad are to attend the University of Oregon to earn my master’s in Education. After that, I would like to spend a year or two teaching English or Spanish abroad and traveling. Then after I have seen the world and bettered my Spanish speaking skills I would like to become a Spanish immersion elementary school teacher in order to pass on the ability to communicate with as many people as possible.
What is one fun fact about you?:
One fun fact about me is that I started taking Spanish in middle school by default, but now it is part of daily life and will be my line of work.
What are you proud
to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I am proud to have been involved in the Aging and Vascular Physiology laboratory at the UO. From my work in this lab, I recently defended my thesis on a novel treatment to alleviate age-related cerebrovascular dysfunction and age-related cognitive impairment. In addition, I am proud to have served several terms as a member of the teaching team for different classes such as general chemistry and psychology. Finally, I am proud to be a member of the Robert D. Clark Honors College where I
I have many role models, but the first one that comes to mind is my grandfather, Martin Braker. I admire his calm, even demeanor and I enjoy his lighthearted sense of humor. However, perhaps most of all, I marvel at his outlook on life - love your family, enjoy yourself, and follow your dreams. These are the pillars by which he lives his life, and I believe that they are the key to happiness and fulfillment. Also, he is the inspiration for my desire to become a physician one day. On one hand, this is a career I think I would personally enjoy, but the on the other, maybe I just want to be like him.
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I plan to apply to medical school and pursue a career as a physician. Beyond my career choice, I want to continue my commitment to being an active, contributing member of the community for the rest of my life.
What is one fun fact about you?:
One fun fact about me is that I’m a country music fan and my dream is to see Zach Bryan at Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Maxwell Braker
Senior, June 2023
Major: Multidisciplinary Science
Minor: Chemistry
How do you want to change the world?:
I want to change the world through incremental, meaningful action in my communities that helps build connection through understanding, and compassion. I love doing work where I can see a direct positive impact, and hope to continue this. I strive to make people feel seen and want to foster an atmosphere of connection and involvement.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I value taking every opportunity and getting involved in the programs that I am a part of, so I have loved becoming involved in the PPPM and Dance Departments during my time at UO. Being on the executive board for Dance Oregon has allowed me to connect with artists in the Eugene community, create and execute events for the dance community, work with my faculty
How do you want to change the world?:
As I get older, I realize that amazing people are everywhere. Every country, every city, every town. It just takes someone to come along and share their story with the world so that others may witness it. I’d like to change the world by being that someone. Genuine connection is the most powerful force in the universe, and the only thing powerful enough to change the world. Whether it is through advertising, film, or journalism, I’d like to make things that bring people together.
What are you proud to have been involved with at the University of Oregon?:
I’m proud, but also incredibly lucky, to have been at the Daily Emerald for two years. The opportunity to work as an Account Executive has been the most rewarding experience in my entire life. There are
and peers, and experience dance in a variety of ways.
Getting to witness the joy that people experience from having an opportunity to dance is an amazing feeling that this role in Dance Oregon has allowed me to have.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
My mom is my biggest role model. Seeing how hard she works to achieve her goals while staying true to her interests, values, and passions has inspired me to strive to do the same. Her work ethic, commitment, open-mindedness, and care are qualities I have always admired. She’s always managed to balance a myriad of projects while still always being there for her family, and I am so incredibly grateful for her care and support in everything I do.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
I’m not sure if this character is
most like myself, but I strive to have the work ethic, kindness, and follow-through that Leslie Knope has. I resonate with her having so much care for her community and the people in her life, and I’ve worked for a Parks and Rec department!
What are your goals after college?:
After college, I hope to continue dancing in some capacity, whether that be in teaching, choreographing, or performing. I also want to work in the nonprofit or public sectors, focusing on community engagement, event planning, and project management in the arts, environment, or human services areas.
What is one fun fact about you?:
When I was 16, I went to Sri Lanka to volunteer with the Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society to research the human-elephant conflict in the country.
Junior, June 2024
Major: Planning, Public Policy, and Management and Dance
Minor: Nonprofit Management
many skills and lessons I’ve learned at the Emerald, but the most important is persistence and communication. Both of these are essential in building relationships, and I am forever grateful for the relationships I’ve made at the Emerald. I’m also proud to have joined Allen Hall Advertising as a strategist. Through AHA, I’ve learned to be a team player and collaborate with other talented creatives.
Who is your biggest role model and why?:
This one is a tie between two wonderful women in my life. First I’d like to acknowledge my mother Amanda Valle for giving me the world. Her endless love and support has shaped me to be the man I am today. I strive to be a man that treats everyone with kindness and respect, and I trace that back to her. I would also like to thank Shelly Rondestvedt for helping me dream big and encouraging me along the way. I wouldn’t trade our conversations
in the office for anything. I know that I will think back on her advice for many years to come.
Which fictional character is most like yourself?:
Aang the Last Airbender. I love to make jokes and be playful with the people around me, and I try not to take myself too seriously.
What are your goals after college?:
After graduation, I’d like to pursue a career in the advertising industry as a strategist. I’m passionate about music, so I’d love to be a part of music-related work. In my free time, I want to travel and see more of the world. I also plan on continuing photography and creating music.
What is one fun fact about you?:
You may know me as Phil from the Sexual Assault Prevention film played in Introducktion.
Riley Valle
Senior, June 2023
Major: Advertising
Minor: Business Administration
Jessica Hovermale
Since Day 1 over 100 years ago, student team members have been an essential part of our team. Their time with us ranges from seasonal to part-time and more, providing them with new skills and perspectives, and preparing them for a future beyond The Duck Store.
We’re proud to be a part of our team members’ University of Oregon experience, championing their potential both now as students and into their futures. Join us in celebrating over a dozen of our graduating team members at tds.tw/tdsgrads23
