Torrey Lawrence, D.M.A., Provost and Executive Vice President
Conferring and Presentation of Graduate, Professional, and Undergraduate Degrees ..............................
Alumni Welcome
Closing Remarks
C. Scott Green, M.B.A., President
Torrey Lawrence, D.M.A., Provost and Executive Vice President
Rory Fletcher, D.P.T., Representative of the University of Idaho Alumni Association
C. Scott Green, M.B.A., President
The Alma Mater, “Here We Have Idaho,” composed by Sallie Hume-Douglas University Wind Ensemble
Mark Thiele, D.M.A., Assistant Professor, Lionel Hampton School of Music
Madison Cummings, Student, Lionel Hampton School of Music (words on page 38)
The entire assembly joins in the singing of the Alma Mater.
Recessional University Wind Ensemble
Mark Thiele, D.M.A., Assistant Professor, Lionel Hampton School of Music
Processional Announcer
Todd Mordhorst, B.S., University Communications and Marketing Commencement Readers Lysa Salsbury, Ph.D., Dean of Students Lee A. Vierling, Ph.D., Natural Resources and Society
Lead Marshal
Photography GradImages (800-261-2576, www.gradimages.com) will provide photography for Commencement. The studio will photograph each student and email and/or mail proofs to all students who supply an address on the card provided at the ceremony. For more images from this ceremony, visit http://www.uidaho.edu/events/commencement
Rula Awwad-Rafferty, Ph.D., Design and Environments
Today’s ceremony is webcast live at http://www.uidaho.edu/live 9:30am PT/12:30pm ET
English: https://recapd.com/w-y1x4mc/ Spanish: https://recapd.com/w-y1x4mc/es/ 2:00pm PT/5:00pm ET
College of arT and arChiTeCTure | College of eduCaTion, healTh and human sCienCes College of laW | College of leTTers, arTs and soCial sCienCes
Presiding: C. Scott Green, M.B.A., President
Processional University Wind Ensemble
Mark Thiele, D.M.A., Assistant Professor, Lionel Hampton School of Music
Presentation and Posting of Colors ........................................................................................... Joint ROTC Military Services Color Guard
The National Anthem University Wind Ensemble
Mark Thiele, D.M.A., Assistant Professor, Lionel Hampton School of Music Madison Cummings, Student, Lionel Hampton School of Music
John Wagner, Ph.D., Director of Idaho National Laboratory
Oath of Office Captain Scott Brunson, M.A., Commanding Officer Navy ROTC Student Speaker Remarks Seyi Arogundade, ASUI President President’s Medallion.....
Recognition of Honors Students
C. Scott Green, M.B.A., President
Torrey Lawrence, D.M.A., Provost and Executive Vice President
Conferring and Presentation of Graduate, Professional, and Undergraduate Degrees
Todd Mordhorst, B.S., University Communications and Marketing Commencement Readers
Lead Marshal
Photography
GradImages (800-261-2576, www.gradimages.com) will provide photography for Commencement. The studio will photograph each student and email and/or mail proofs to all students who supply an address on the card provided at the ceremony. For more images from this ceremony, visit http://www.uidaho.edu/events/commencement
Sarah Nelson, Ph.D., School of Global Studies
Jamaica Ritcher, M.F.A., Writing Center
Lysa Salsbury, Ph.D., Dean of Students
Rula Awwad-Rafferty, Ph.D., Design and Environments
Today’s ceremony is webcast live at http://www.uidaho.edu/live 9:30am PT/12:30pm ET English: https://recapd.com/w-y1x4mc/ Spanish: https://recapd.com/w-y1x4mc/es/ 2:00pm PT/5:00pm ET English: https://recapd.com/w-VI_2j_/ Spanish: https://recapd.com/w-VI_2j_/es/
The Regents of the University of Idaho
Kurt Liebich, President Boise
William G. Gilbert, Jr., Vice President Boise
Shawn Keough Sandpoint
Peter C. Koehler Caldwell
Cally J. Roach Fairfield
C. Scott Green, M.B.A. President
Torrey Lawrence, D.M.A. Provost and Executive Vice President
Cindy Siddoway Terreton
David Turnbull Eagle
Debbie Critchfield
State Superintendent for Public Instruction, Oakley
Jennifer White
Executive Director, Idaho State Board of Education, Boise
University Leadership
Chandra Zenner Ford, M.S. Executive Officer, Southwest Idaho and Senior Associate to the President
Andrew Fields, Ph.D. Executive Officer, Northern Idaho
Ben McLuen, B.A. Chief Executive Officer of University Foundation
Dan Ewart, M.P.A.
Vice President for Information Technology Services, Chief Information Officer
Brian Foisy, M. Acct. Vice President for Finance and Administration
Christopher Nomura, Ph.D. Vice President for Research and Economic Development
Terry Gawlik, M.Ed. Director of Athletics
Yolanda Bisbee, Ed.D. Executive Director Tribal Relations
Dean Kahler, Ph.D.
Vice Provost for Strategic Enrollment Management
Diane Kelly-Riley, Ph.D. Vice Provost for Faculty
Ken Udas, Ph.D. Vice Provost for Digital Learning Initiatives
Blaine Eckles, Ph.D. Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Lindsey Brown, Ph.D. University Registrar
Caroline Nilsson-Troy, B.S.
Special Assistant to the President for Government Relations
Kim Rytter, J.D. General Counsel
Marc Skinner, Ph.D. Executive Officer, Southeastern Idaho Deans
Leslie Edgar, Ph.D. Dean, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
Shauna Corry, Ph.D. Dean, College of Art and Architecture
Lisa Victoravich, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business and Economics
Brooke Blevins, Ph.D. Dean, College of Education, Health and Human Sciences
Suzanna Long, Ph.D., P.E. Dean, College of Engineering
Jerry McMurtry, Ph.D. Dean, College of Graduate Studies
Aviva Abramovsky, J.D. Dean, College of Law
Sean Quinlan, Ph.D. Dean, College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences
Ben Hunter, Ph.D. Dean, University Libraries
Dennis Becker, Ph.D. Dean, College of Natural Resources
Ginger Carney, Ph.D. Dean, College of Science
Russell Baker, Ph.D., D.A.T.
Interim Co-Director, WWAMI Medical Education Program
Rayme Geidl, M.D.
Interim Co-Director, WWAMI Medical Education Program
C. Scott Green took office as the 19th president of the University of Idaho on July 1, 2019. President Green joined U of I as a highly accomplished executive with a career in global finance, operations and administration. He is also a proud alumnus of the university, graduating in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science in accounting.
Born in Moscow, Green’s family moved to Boise, where he graduated from Boise High School. Following his degree from the University of Idaho, the third-generation Vandal went to work for Boise Cascade Corporation. He went on to attend Harvard Business School and received a Master of Business Administration in 1989.
Green worked for Deloitte and Touche as part of its accelerated career program from 1989-94. He then worked in banking, serving in various management roles for Goldman Sachs and ING Barings. He published two books on the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which reformed regulations around auditing and financial reporting.
Green went on to leadership in global law firms, including service as CEO at Pepper Hamilton and as executive director at WilmerHale. He most recently served as the chief operating and financial officer for Hogan Lovells, one of the largest law firms in the world, with annual revenues of more than $2 billion. Green led all of the firm’s worldwide operations, technology, conflicts and finance functions. He had global responsibility for more than 3,000 employees in more than 30 countries.
The first non-lawyer to run an American Lawyer 100 law firm, Green was recognized as one of the Top 50 Big Law Innovators of the Last 50 Years by The American Lawyer magazine in 2013. A certified public accountant, Green was inducted into the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Business and Industry Hall of Fame in 2006. He received the Institute of Internal Auditors Outstanding Contributor Award in 2004 and 2006.
Green’s commitment to the University of Idaho over many years has included service on the U of I Alumni Association’s national Board of Directors, the College of Business and Economics Advisory Board and on the U of I Foundation Board. He is also a Vandal Scholarship Fund supporter.
Green and his wife, Gabriella, an interior design project manager, have two adult children: Nicholas and Christina.
Dr. John C. Wagner is the director of Idaho National Laboratory and president of Battelle Energy Alliance LLC. He is responsible for management and integration of a large, multipurpose laboratory that has a mission focused on nuclear energy, national and homeland security, energy, and environmental science and technology. He manages this U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory of more than 6,300 scientists, engineers and support staff members in multiple nuclear and nonnuclear experimental facilities, with an annual budget of more than $2 billion.
Wagner began serving as INL director in 2020. He has more than 25 years of experience performing research, and managing and leading research and development projects, programs and organizations.
Wagner’s experience is strongly aligned with INL’s programmatic portfolio. He has guided and helped implement INL’s nuclear energy strategy during an innovative and exciting time at the nation’s center for nuclear energy research and development. As a recognized expert in reactor and fuel cycle technologies, he is called upon frequently to advise in formulation of policies for nuclear fuel cycles and advanced reactors.
Wagner initially joined INL as chief scientist at the Materials and Fuels Complex in 2016 and served as associate laboratory director for Nuclear Science and Technology beginning in 2017. Prior to joining INL, he worked for nearly 17 years at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he held several research and leadership roles in reactor and fuel cycle technologies.
Wagner is a Fellow of the American Nuclear Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science and recipient of the 2013 E.O. Lawrence Award. He has authored or co-authored more than 170 refereed journal and conference articles, technical reports, and conference summaries. He earned a bachelor’s in nuclear engineering from the Missouri University of Science and Technology in 1992, and master’s and doctorate degrees from the Pennsylvania State University in 1994 and 1997, respectively.
Dr. John C. Wagner
u niversi T y of i daho p residen T ’ s m edallion
The President’s Medallion is presented at commencements to individuals selected by the university president who have made significant contributions to the cultural, economic, scientific and/or social advancement of Idaho and its people, as well as provided exceptional service to the state or nation that has influenced the well-being of humankind.
Dirk Kempthorne is a proud graduate of the University of Idaho. After having served as the President of the Associated Students of the University of Idaho and earning a degree in political science, Kempthorne was inspired to pursue a career in public service.
Over the next 10 years he worked for the State of Idaho in both the Department of Mines and the Department of Lands and honed his business and leadership skills with the Idaho Home Builders Association and the FMC Corporation in Idaho. In 1985 he recognized a timely opportunity to serve his community and ran for mayor of the City of Boise (1985-1992). During his seven years in office, he helped direct a renaissance in the state's capital city that resulted in record growth, economic development, and numerous national honors and recognitions for quality of life, business climate, and family issues.
His success as mayor propelled others to encourage him to run to represent Idaho in the United States Senate to which he was elected in November 1992. As a US Senator he authored and passed two key pieces of legislation–the Unfunded Mandates Bill and the Clean Water Act. Kempthorne also served on the Armed Services Committee as chair of Military Personnel Promotions.
Kempthorne returned to our great state when he was elected Governor of Idaho in 1998 and reelected in 2002. He was a champion for education, both early learning and K-12, including the third grade reading initiative, and higher education. When the Dot-Com crisis plunged the nation’s economy, Kempthorne proposed the construction of a major building at every college and university campus as a way to stimulate Idaho’s economy while significantly helping higher education. The buildings were funded and built including the Teaching and Learning Center at UI.
As Commander in Chief of Idaho National Guard, he presided over the largest single deployment in Idaho history of 4,300 troops to Iraq for one year. He initiated a program to enhance Idaho's highways by improving safety and expanding intra-state commerce. It resulted in 57 different projects over the years, and has been credited with saving hundreds of lives on Idaho highways, many of whom are Idaho students driving home for school holidays
In 2006, Governor Kempthorne was asked by President George W. Bush to return to Washington, D.C. to serve as the 49th Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior. He was confirmed on May 26, 2006 and took the oath of office on the same day. Upon taking office he instituted department-wide ethics reforms, which were a priority throughout his tenure. He directed the establishment of a creed, “Stewardship for America with integrity and excellence.”
Following an engaging career in public service, Governor Dirk Kempthorne served as President and CEO of the American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) from November 2010 to August 2018. He was the chief representative and spokesman for the U.S. life insurance industry before Congress, the administration, in all state capitals, and in the international arena. ACLI’s approximately 290 member companies represent 95 percent of industry assets in the United States.
Continuing his public service, Governor Kempthorne serves as the Chair of the USS IDAHO Commissioning Committee Advisory Board and on the Board of Directors of the Peregrine Fund. Kempthorne also serves as a director on three national corporate boards and travels extensively.
Governor Kempthorne and his wife Patricia are both University of Idaho graduates. They are now thoroughly enjoying time with their two grown children, seven grandchildren, and one very active dog.
Dirk Kempthorne
An honorary degree is awarded to a person deserving of honor by virtue of scholarly distinction, noteworthy public service or significant contributions to the state of Idaho. In the selection of candidates for honorary degrees, preference is given to those who are Idaho residents or University of Idaho graduates.
universiTy of idaho – mosCoW – honorary doCToraTe
Nick Purdy grew up in Picabo, Idaho, on his family’s ranch surrounded by the beauty of the Big Wood River Valley. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work, helping with sheep and haying operations before excelling in athletics and academics at Hailey High School, where he met his future wife, Sharon Montgomery. The two married in 1959 and attended the University of Idaho, where Nick earned a degree in Agricultural Engineering. After graduation, they returned to Picabo to raise their three sons—Randy, Pat, and Mike—and to continue the family ranching tradition. Nick brought innovation to agriculture by founding Silver Creek Irrigation in 1972, introducing modern pressurized irrigation systems that transformed farming across southern Idaho. His entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of several successful companies, including Purdy Enterprises, which continues under family leadership today.
Beyond his business achievements, Nick has devoted his life to service and conservation. He has served on numerous local and state boards, including the Blaine County School Board, Idaho Nature Conservancy, and University of Idaho Foundation, earning multiple honors such as the National Environmental Stewardship Award and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s John Campanius Holm Award. Nick’s deep commitment to preserving Silver Creek and the lands around Picabo resulted in major restoration projects and permanent conservation easements that will protect the area for generations.
Nick has also made a lasting impact on the University of Idaho, establishing the Nick and Sharon Purdy Agricultural Engineering Endowment to provide scholarships to deserving students pursuing degrees in agricultural engineering. This endowment is a testament to Nick’s commitment to fostering the next generation of agricultural engineers and ensuring that others can follow in his footsteps to drive innovation in the field. Nick continues to mentor his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, ensuring that the Purdy family legacy of stewardship, integrity, and community service endures well into the future.
Nick Purdy
universiTy of idaho – mosCoW – honorary doCToraTe
Richard Dahl is the Chair of the Board of Directors for American Savings Bank, a privately held financial institution with more than $9 billion in assets headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii. He also serves as a director and former Chair of Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), parent company of Applebee’s and IHOP, where he previously held roles as Interim Chief Executive Officer and President of Applebee’s.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Mr. Dahl has held leadership roles at several major organizations, including serving as Chairman of the following Boards: IDACORP/Idaho Power Company, International Rectifier Corporation and James Campbell Company LLC. He also served as President & COO of the Dole Food Company and President, Bank of Hawaii Corporation. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to advancing business excellence, ethical stewardship, and community engagement.
Equally dedicated to service, Mr. Dahl has chaired or supported numerous nonprofit and civic organizations in Hawaii, among them HMSA, the Bishop Museum, Oceanic Institute, Hawaiian Humane Society and La Jardin Academy. He has also advised multiple educational institutions, including the University of Hawaii, and has shared his expertise in Idaho through service on the University of Idaho Foundation Board and the College of Business and Economics Advisory Board. Mr. Dahl earned an accounting degree from the University of Idaho in 1973. He and his wife, Barbara are Boise natives and currently split their time between Kailua, Hawaii and McCall, Idaho. The Dahl’s have three grown children and seven grandchildren.
Richard Dahl
u niversi T y of i daho a lumni a
a lumni a sso C iaT ion b oard of d ire CTors
About the University of Idaho Alumni Association, Inc.
The University of Idaho Alumni Association, Inc. (UIAA, Inc.) is a non-dues-paying group, founded in 1898, that supports University of Idaho alumni to connect them with their alma mater and each other. This network of almost 117,000 alumni worldwide is made of University of Idaho graduates and those who have completed 90 credits or more.
The UIAA, Inc. is managed by an elected board of directors that governs the organization and meets formally three times a year. Duties of elected directors include managing corporate affairs, business and assets of the association. Appointed members may also serve on the board with no voting privileges.
University of Idaho Alumni Association, Inc.
875 Perimeter Drive MS 3232 Moscow, ID 83844-3232 208-885-6154 alumni@uidaho.edu www.uidaho.edu/alumni @UidahoAlumni www.uidaho.edu/alumni/uiaa
e xe C u T ive C ommi TT ee
President
Jackie Jameson ’08 Western Idaho Region
Vice President
Erin Jessup ’05,’10 Northwestern Region
Treasurer
Melissa Lowther ’08 Western Idaho Region
Director-At-Large
Juan Louis Corona ’12 Western Idaho Region
Past President
Jon Gaffney ’08 Eastern Region
i daho d ire CTors
Jessie Baranco ’99, Western Idaho Region
Troy Braga ’02, Northern Idaho Region
Mil DeSilva ’09, Western Idaho Region
Lisa Donnellon ’05, Western Idaho Region
Rory Fletcher ’04, Northern Idaho Region
Mallory Cook Griffith ’10, ’12 Western Idaho Region
Chris Haener ’89, Western Idaho Region
Sharee Hamilton ’02, Southern Idaho Region
David Harrington ’93, Northern Idaho Region
John Hoyne ’96, Western Idaho Region
Bobby Myers ’10, ’17, Northern Idaho Region
Robb Steinke ’84, Western Idaho Region
Samantha Storms ’12, ’13, Western Idaho Region
Aaron Williamson ’95, Western Idaho Region
Liza Wilson ’09, ’11, Central Idaho Region
n aT ional d ire CTors
Tina Anton ’91, Western Region
Annie Averitt ’00, Western Region
Shelby Kerns ’97, Eastern Region
Kimberly Lynn ’12, Northwestern Region
Drew Morgan ’15, Northwestern Region
u niversi T y of i daho f ounda T ion
About the University of Idaho Foundation, Inc.
The University of Idaho Foundation was established in 1970 to inspire, manage and distribute private support to enhance the excellence of University of Idaho. The UI Foundation is governed by a dedicated volunteer board of directors who share their time, talent and treasure.
The UI Foundation inspires and receives gifts from generous donors dedicated to supporting and advancing University of Idaho through philanthropic support. Gifts come in a variety of forms that include cash contributions, marketable securities and real estate, and through planned giving opportunities such as bequests, gift annuities, charitable remainder trusts and others.
Nearly 2,000 individual endowments have been funded through charitable contributions. The endowed funds are managed in the Consolidated Investment Trust (CIT), the UI Foundation’s pooled endowment fund. The principal is non-expendable; investment earnings support scholarships, faculty development, research and other programs in accordance with the donors’ wishes.
As a unified philanthropic organization, the UI Foundation’s scope includes core fiduciary responsibilities of managing investments and assets, maintaining accounting records, fundraising, stewardship, data management, alumni relations and constituent engagement functions.
With $565 million in total assets, the UI Foundation is the largest public foundation in the state of Idaho.
University of Idaho Foundation, Inc. 875 Perimeter Drive MS 3143 Moscow, ID 83844-3143 208-885-4000 www.uidahofoundation.org
o ffi C ers
Chair Clint Marshall ’97
Vice Chair
Dan Hutchinson ’75
Treasurer
Annette Elg ’78
Secretary Mark Engberg ’84
Past Chair
Linda Copple Trout ’73, ’77
d ire CTors
Angella Broesch ’98
Jennifer Dellgard ’92
Kirby Dyess ’68
John Hale ’84, ’86
Mary Hasenoehrl
Dave Huotari ’83
Dana Kim ’84
Scott Madison ’87
Samantha Parrott ’12, ’19
Ken Pierce ’87
Stephen Pruss ’85
Earl Reed ’81
James Reid ’70
Donna Stambaugh ’78
Ryne Stoker ’86, ’04
Travis Thompson ’97, ’00
Bob Urso ’80
James Whistler ’73
C andida T es for d egrees and d egrees p reviously a W arded
p os T humous d egrees
baChelor of general sTudies
Chandler Scott Harris, Coeur d’Alene College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences
C ollege of g raduaT e s T udies
Established in 1925. Jerry R. McMurtry, Ph.D., Dean
doCTor of philosophy
Mosope Fatih Abanikannda, Lagos, Nigeria
Animal Physiology. Dissertation: “Integrative Genomic and Microbiome Approaches to Understanding Thermal Adaptation in Redband Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss gairdneri).” Major Professor: Jacob Bledsoe.
Fadi Obaid A Alharbi*, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
Computer Science. Dissertation: “Graph Neural Network Architectures for Multi-OmicsBased Cancer Classification with Emphasis on Interpretability and Biomarker Discovery.”
Major Professor: Aleksandar Vakanski
Courage Alorbu, Keta, Ghana
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “The Sustainable Wood Protection and Adhesive Properties of Nanometal Oxide Complexes with Different Essential Oils.”
Major Professor: Armando Gabriel McDonald
Cody Raffaele Appa*, McCall Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Dissertation: “Understanding the Role of the DNA Binding Protein Euo on the Developmental Cycle of Chlamydia trachomatis.”
Major Professor: Scott Grieshaber
Sehrish Asghar*, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Environmental Science. Dissertation: “Simultaneous Nitrogen and Phosphorus Removal in Sequencing Batch Reactors to Treat Anaerobically Digested Liquid Dairy Manure.” Major Professor: Lide Chen
Lindsey Marie Barrett*, Rathdrum Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Dissertation: “Regenerative Potential and Transcriptional Regulation within the Zebrafish Neural Retina.”
Major Professor: Deborah L. Stenkamp
Andrea Bertagnoli, Verona, Italy
Civil Engineering. Dissertation: “A Novel Framework to Estimate Surface-Subsurface River Water Interactions: From Point to Segment Scales.” Major Professor: Daniele Tonina
Christian Grant Billings*, Caldwell Experimental Psychology. Dissertation: “Algorithm Aversion: The Role of Process Control, SelfDetermination Theory, and Psychological Ownership.” Major Professor: Todd Jay Thorsteinson
Erik Andrew Ciaccio*, El Cajon, California
Entomology. Dissertation: “Evolution and Diversification of the Mygalomorph genus Antrodiaetus (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Antrodiaetidae).”
Major Professor: Christopher Austin Hamilton
* Degree awarded August 1, 2025
§ Degree to be completed in a future semester
The appearance of a name in this program is presumptive evidence of graduation and graduation honors; it must not in any sense be regarded as conclusive. The academic transcript, signed and sealed by the proper university officers, remains the official testimony of the possession of the degree.
Jack Woodrow Creagh-Grave*, Moscow
Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Dissertation: “Characterization of Fungal Killer Toxin Proteins Using Molecular Modeling and Biochemical Techniques.” Major Professor: Paul A. Rowley
Vovener de Verlands Edmond*, Moscow
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Ecophysiological and Morphological Drivers of Drought Resistance in Northern Rocky Mountain Conifer Seedlings.”
Major Professor: Andrew Steven Nelson
Amr Mohamed Ahmed Hassan ElMaghraby*, Cairo, Egypt
Electrical Engineering. Dissertation: “Readout Integrated Circuit Design for CMOS Image Sensors.” Major Professor: Suat Utku Ay
Maureen Essen*, Missoula, Montana
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Complexity Ignited: Rethinking Wildfire Governance through Paradigms, Power, and Pluralism.” Major Professor: Travis B. Paveglio
Michaela Elizabeth Everly, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Chemistry. Dissertation: “Advancing Recognition of Mixed-Sequence Double-Stranded DNA with Chimeric Invader Probes Featuring RNA Analogues.” Major Professor: Patrick J. Hrdlicka
Samuel Thomas Foster*, Celista, Canada
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Human Disturbance Reshapes Large Mammal Behavior, Habitat Use, and Community Composition in British Columbia.” Major Professor: Matthew R. Falcy
Alexandra Catherine Gogel, Gig Harbor, Washington
Nutritional Sciences. Dissertation: “Variation of Human Milk Composition and Associations of The Milk Microbiome and Infant Anthropometry.” Major Professor: Michelle McGuire
Adam James Hanan, Coeur d’Alene Education. Dissertation: “Framing and Reframing Lesson Goals: Linking Research, Teacher Intentions, and Coaching to Strengthen Mathematics Instructional Support and Teaching.” Major Professor: Julie M. Amador
Heather Levina Heward, Moscow
Education. Dissertation: “Advancing Prescribed Fire Through Effective Knowledge Transfer.” Major Professor: Laura B. Holyoke
Nicole Isabel Hucke Nunez, Temuco, Chile
Civil Engineering. Dissertation: “Hyporheic Flux and Antecedent Flow Conditions Influence the Retention and Release of Fine Sediment and Nutrients from Streambeds.” Major Professor: Elowyn M. Yager
Nicholas Koenig*, Louisville, Kentucky
Geography. Dissertation: “The Missing Ring: Tree Ring Scholar-Activism, Creative Justice-Based Pedagogies, & Community-Centered Geographies in the Climate Crisis.” Major Professor: Grant Harley
Jennifer S. Kruger, Penfield, New York Education. Dissertation: “Extending the Construct of Professional Noticing to Coaching Contexts: Shifting the Lens from Teaching to Coaching and Exploring Implications for Coach Learning.” Major Professor: Julie M. Amador
Phinehas T. Alexander Lampman, Moscow
Environmental Science. Dissertation: “Wildland Fire Through Multiple Lenses: A Drone-based Investigation of Pyroaerobiology and Wildland Fire Behavior using AI and Mixed-effects Modeling.” Major Professor: Leda Kobziar
Hansol Lee, Seoul, South Korea
Plant Science. Dissertation: “Tug of War: How Species Interactions Shape Yield Stability and Drought Resilience in Cereal-Legume Intercropping.” Major Professor: Xi Liang
Liang Liang, Zhanjiang, People’s Republic of China
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Applying Phytic Acid, Cardanol and Cardanol-derived Epoxy to Wood Protection and Exploring Wood Composites Manufactured by Cardanol-derived Epoxy.” Major Professor: Armando Gabriel McDonald
Javier Alonso Carrillo Longoria, Coacalco, Mexico
Animal Physiology. Dissertation: “Physiological and Epigenetic Responses of Arctic Grayling (Thymal/us arcticus) to Thermal Stress.” Major Professor: Madison Powell.
Cameron L. Macias, Port Angeles, Washington
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Optimizing Methods for Abundance Estimation, Noninvasive DNA Recovery, and Diet Analysis of Cougars and Bobcats on the Olympic Peninsula.” Major Professor: Lisette P. Waits
Imran Hussain Mahdy, Sylhet, Bangladesh
Biological Engineering. Dissertation: “Technological Development and Techno-economic Assessment of a Continuous System for Hydrochar Production from Dairy Manure via Hydrothermal Carbonization.”
Major Professor: Bingjun Brian He
Jessica Marie Matsaw, Pocatello Education. Dissertation: “Cultural Equity Literacy: Cultivating Relationships Through Shoshone-Bannock Pedagogy.” Major Professor: Vanessa E. Anthony-Stevens
Dinithi Gayangi Mohotti*, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka
Environmental Science. Dissertation: “Efficient Cobalt Removal and Recovery from Wastewater Using a Liquid Phase Plasma Discharge Process.” Major Professor: Xiao Wu
Amanda Christine Moore-Kriwox, Paul Education. Dissertation: “Professional Development Needs of Idaho Secondary and Community College Career and Technical Education Teachers.” Major Professor: John G. Cannon
Iva Theresa Moss, Arapahoe, Wyoming Education. Dissertation: “Arapaho Knowledge Systems: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics and Relationality in Arapaho Origin Story.” Major Professor: Vanessa E. Anthony-Stevens
Karuna Nepal, Butwal, Nepal
Entomology. Dissertation: “The Role of Olfactory and Visual Cues in the Host Selection Behavior of a Specialist Weevil for the Biological Control of an Invasive Plant.” Major Professor: Mark Schwarzlaender Khaled Abobakr Nasr Nigm, Cairo, Egypt
Electrical Engineering. Dissertation: “Robust Distributed Power System State and Parameter Estimation Under Bad Data and Leverage Points using SCADA and PMU Measurements.” Major Professor: Yacine Chakhchoukh Luis Nunez*, Libertyville, Illinois
Mechanical Engineering. Dissertation: “An Approach to Directed Energy Deposition ProcessStructure-Property Analysis with Experiments and Modeling.” Major Professor: Michael Maughan
Yusuf Abiodun Oduntan*, Lagos, Nigeria
Mechanical Engineering. Dissertation: “Multiscale Biomechanical Analysis of Stalk Lodging Resistance in Cereal Crops.” Major Professor: Daniel J. Robertson
Ian Matthew Oiler*, Raytown, Missouri Biology. Dissertation: “Assessing Patterns of Diversity in Land Snail Microbiomes.”
Major Professor: Christine Parent
Alexandra Noelle Ottilie Pace, Walton, Nebraska
Animal Physiology. Dissertation: “Investigation of the Physiological Responses of Dairy Calves to Natural Wildfire Smoke Exposure in Early Life.” Major Professor: Amy L. Skibiel
Grace Louise Peven, Wenatchee, Washington
Water Resources. Dissertation: “GroundwaterDependent Ecosystems as Refugia: Responses to Disturbance and Climate in a Semi-Arid Mountainous Region of Idaho.” Major Professor: Jan Ulrich Eitel
Victor Manuel Santiago Plata, Cardenas, Mexico
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Noninvasive Genetic Tools for the Conservation of Threatened Mammals.” Major Professor: Lisette Waits.
Lorenzo Lamar Rene, Naples, Florida
Education. Dissertation: “Exploring Preservice Teachers Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) of Student Mental Health: Consequences for Educator Preparation Programs.” Major Professor: Janine Julianna Darragh
Erick Ignacio Rios, North Hills, California
Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Dissertation: “Proteomic Landscape of Hsp90 and Cdc37 Dysfunction: A Study of Mutational Effects on Hsp90 System.” Major Professor: Jill L. Johnson Kerrick William Robinson, Duluth, Minnesota
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “The Boundaries of Access: A Focus on Fish and Wildlife.” Major Professor: Kenneth Eric Wallen
Rowdy Allen Sanford*, Orondo, Washington
Electrical Engineering. Dissertation: “The Control of Leakage Flux in Air-Core Reactors.” Major Professor: Joseph Daniel Law
Carson John Silsby, Albany, Oregon
Chemical Engineering. Dissertation: “Bioremediation of Trichloroethylene with Immobilized Microorganisms: Reaction-Diffusion Modeling Using Defined Transport Properties.” Major Professor: James Gill Moberly
Jeffrey Craig Simmons, Meridian Education. Dissertation: “Measuring the Impact of In-Person Support on the Academic Success of K-12 Online Learners.” Major Professor: Elizabeth Sue Wargo
Mina Soltani Siapoush, Ardabil, Iran
Computer Science. Dissertation: “Capability-Aware RealTime Operating System: A Dynamic Privilege Adjustment Framework with Low-Latency Cross-Compartment Communication.” Major Professor: James Alves-Foss
Shanara Lynn Spang Gion*, Lewiston Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Navigating Hydrosocial Dynamics, Relations & Water Governance at Northern Cheyenne.” Major Professor: Karla Bradley Eitel
Morgan Rose Stegemiller, Franklin, Ohio
Animal Physiology. Dissertation: “Decoding the Small Ruminant Genome: Integrating Linear Sequences with 3D Genomic Architecture.”
Major Professor: Brenda Mae Murdoch Shoukun Sun*, Qingdao Shandong, People’s Republic of China
Computer Science. Dissertation: “Enhancing Deep Learning for Critical Applications with Sparse Labeling.” Major Professor: Min Xian Anjila Thapa*, Butwal, Nepal Entomology. Dissertation: “Studies On the Visual and Chemical Ecology, And the Efficacy of a Specialist Insect Herbivore Considered for the Biological Control of an Alien Invasive plant in North America.” Major Professor: Mark Schwarzlaender
Giselle Suzette Veach*, Vancouver, Washington Electrical Engineering. Dissertation: “Revisiting Gabriel Kron: The Construction of the ILIM and Its Role in Developing the First Dynamic LTSpice Model of the Induction Machine as a pathway to Independent Coil Control.” Major Professor: Herbert L. Hess
Nicholas S. Voss*, Tenafly, New Jersey
Natural Resources. Dissertation: “Nonnative Brook Trout as a Threat to Native Bull Trout in Idaho: Patterns Across Space and Time.” Major Professor: Michael Carl Quist
Benjamin B. Wood, Parma Plant Science. Dissertation: “Detection and Characterization of Bacterial Diseases in Onions and Potatoes in Idaho.” Major Professor: James Warwick Woodhall
Joshua Corde Young*, Rexburg Nuclear Engineering. Dissertation: “Experimental Investigation of Natural Circulation Phenomenology using Selected Gases and Liquids.” Major Professor: Indrajit Charit
Jinming Zhang, Shaoyang, People’s Republic of China Physics. Dissertation: “Bio-imaging with Optical Microscopy of Interferometry and Light Sheet.” Major Professor: Andreas Vasdekis
eduCaTion speCialisT in eduCaTional leadership
Hailey Madison McGahan*, Boise
Shannon Kelly Rider, Wasilla, Alaska
masTer of aCCounTanCy
Sara Majel George, Lapwai
Samantha Ryoko HammesBuehler, Moscow
Anna Elizabeth Harms, Eagle
Susan Mary Kendall, Hope
Cameron David Pogue, Anchorage, Alaska
Makiah F. Stafford*, Eagle River, Alaska
Max F. Stoyer, Post Falls
Conner James Stuart*, Boise
masTer of arChiTeCTure
Mercedes Mariel Jasso, Boise
masTer of arTs
Gabrielle Aguilar-Thang*, Fort Worth, Texas Emerging Media
Rebecca Ann Gonzales, Weiser English
Rachel West Kight, Spring Hill, Tennessee Anthropology
Nicholas Koenig*, Louisville, Kentucky English
Irelyne Ann McGee*, Camas, Washington Anthropology
Nathan Jay Moody, Boise History
Nicole Rojas*, Houston, Texas Anthropology
Aidan Michael Toole*, Post Falls Anthropology
masTer of arTs in TeaChing
Wendy S. Heckathorn, Nampa Mathematics
Chase Christopher Lanham*, Moscow Mathematics
Jordan Ashleigh Leavitt, Lewiston Secondary Education
Adam McAlister Johnson*, Rexburg Geological Sciences
Siddhant Shridhar Kamble*, Mumbai Suburban, India Statistics
Sierra Grace Keele, Cataldo Medical Sciences Cum laude
Mason Thomas Kilker*, Rochester, Minnesota Chemistry
Kara Marie Koplin, Idaho Falls Medical Sciences
Allie Marie Laufenburger, Boise Medical Sciences Cum laude
Emily Grace Medema*, Meridian Earth and Spatial Sciences
Andrew Caius Nicks, Spokane, Washington Medical Sciences
Elaina Rose Parker*, Boise Geological Sciences Summa cum laude
Ankit Paudel, Kathmandu, Nepal Mathematics
Aidan Martyn Shaw, Boise Geological Sciences
Audrey Rose Spooner, Boise Chemistry
Jacob Thomas Standifer, Londonderry, New Hampshire Mathematics
Bailey Elizabeth Vanderwall, Grangeville Medical Sciences Summa cum laude
Duru Yagmur Vardan, Atasehir, Turkey Mathematics
Avery Lynn Zill, Stanwood, Washington Medical Sciences
baChelor of sCienCe in bioChemisTry
Claudia V. Costantino, Boise
Hanbi Lee, Ulsan, South Korea
baChelor of sCienCe in miCrobiology
Jessica Cheyenne Brady, Blanchard
Claudia V. Costantino, Boise
U niversity H onors P rogram
Established in 1983. Sandra Reineke, Ph.D., Director. The following members of the University Honors Program are recognized as Honors graduates and recipients of respective Awards of Completion, Core Awards, Scholars Awards and Scholars Awards with Distinction.
honors aWard of CompleTion
(21 honors CrediTs and CompleTion of honors Thesis, porTfolio or global honors)
Shane Silas Neirinckx, Coeur d'Alene Political Science and International Studies
Mary Grace Visger, Moscow Wildlife Sciences
a ir F orce o FF icer e d U cation P rogram
Established in 1947. Lieutenant Colonel Peter J. Brunke, PhD, USAF, Professor of Aerospace Studies
seCond lieuTenanT, uniTed sTaTes air forCe
Matthew Thomas, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
n aval o FF icer e d U cation P rogram
Established in 1945. Captain Scott P. Brunson, USN, Professor of Naval Studies
seCond lieuTenanT, uniTed sTaTes navy
Nicholas Anthony Palid, San Diego, California
seCond lieuTenanT, uniTed sTaTes marine Corps
Jesus Manuel Jimenez-Lopez, Caldwell
o ffi C er e du C a T ion p rogram a W ards
n avy r eserve o FF icer t raining c or P s
Distinguished Military Graduate
This award is presented to ROTC Midshipmen who are in the top 10 percent of all graduating Midshipmen nationwide in academics and ROTC.
Jesus Manuel Jimenez-Lopez, Caldwell
s ignifi C an C e of a C ademi C a pparel and s ymbols of i nves T i T ure
University of Idaho Academic Mace
Maces date to the Middle Ages and symbolize strength and authority. Each is unique and reflects the values and characteristics of the institution. The university’s chief marshal, who leads all academic processions, carries the mace.
The University of Idaho’s mace, used for the first time at the centennial commencement, is 32 inches long, made of walnut and encircled with bands of Idaho gold and silver in which Idaho garnets and opals have been inlaid. The head is embellished with silver and gold representations of camas plants and syringa flowers. The chair of the university’s Faculty Senate, the marshal of the academic procession, carries the mace in the American tradition, at a 45-degree angle across the chest, while in England, the bearer carries it over the shoulder.
University of Idaho President’s Medallions
The first medallion was created by Idaho artists George and Macky Roberts. The President’s Medallion was first used in 1965 at the inauguration of Ernest Hartung, the University of Idaho’s 12th president.
The medallion’s base is a three-and-a-half-inch disc of pure Idaho silver. Mounted on the base is a disc of native jasper; a sterling silver sunburst is inlaid in the disc. Inside the sunburst is a modification of the Chinese character meaning “mountain,” which features three upward-pointing prongs. Over the center prong is a gold inlay, thus symbolizing “Light on the Mountain.”
The heavy medallion was worn suspended from a collar woven of Idaho wool, some of which is dyed with dahlia flowers to match the jasper and some of which is from a black sheep.
The second President’s Medallion, worn during commencement by then-President Timothy P. White, was commissioned in 2004. This medallion’s base is a goldleafed university seal and is worn suspended by a chain with gold leaf charms, each representing the presidents who have served the university.
The first President’s Medallion, created in 1965
The university’s second President’s Medallion University of Idaho mace
s ignifi C an C e of a C ademi C a pparel and s ymbols of i nves T i T ure
University of Idaho Academic Apparel
By observing certain features of the academic apparel, it is possible to learn several things about the academic status of the scholar: the level of the degree attained, the branch of learning in which it was earned, and the college or university conferring the degree.
Gowns
The gowns differ according to the level of the degree. The sleeves are the principal indicator — gowns of bachelors’ have pointed sleeves; those of masters’ have oblong sleeves with an arc cut away at the front; and doctors have round, bell-shaped sleeves. Bachelor’s and master’s gowns are untrimmed. Doctoral gowns have distinctive velvet facing down the front and three velvet bars on each sleeve.
The University of Idaho adopted a doctoral gown of its own in 1989. The silver gown has a panel and sleeve bars of black velvet outlined in antique gold. The beret-styled soft cap is patterned after the Cambridge version instead of the traditional Oxford-style mortarboard. The cap and gown were designed by Emeritus Professor Edmund Chavez in the university’s centennial year and are worn today by officials and university administration.
Honor Cords
Honor Cords, worn around the neck and hanging loosely down the front, identify students who are graduating with honors: gold, summa cum laude (with highest distinction); silver, magna cum laude (with great distinction); and bronze, cum laude (with distinction). The cords are provided by the University of Idaho and are worn on this one occasion only.
Caps
The color of the tassel worn on the cap varies with the level of degree. The bachelor’s tassel represents the color appropriate to the major field of study (see colors at right); the master’s and specialist’s tassels are black; and the doctoral tassels are old gold.
Hoods
The length of the hood also varies according to the level of degree. The bachelor’s gown is worn without a hood. A master’s hood is three and one-half feet long, and a doctor’s hood is four feet in length and has panels at the sides. It is from the colors adorning the hood that one can learn two other facts. Lining: the hood is lined with the official color or colors of the college or university conferring the degree (silver and gold, signifying the University of Idaho). Trimming: the hood is trimmed with velvet of a color appropriate to the wearer’s branch of learning. For example, the trimming for the degree of Master of Science in agriculture is maize, representing agriculture, rather than golden yellow, representing science. (In the case of the Doctor of Philosophy degree, the dark blue color is used, representing the mastery of the discipline of learning and scholarship, regardless of the branch of learning.) Colors associated with the different disciplines are listed below:
Agriculture Maize Arts, Letters, Humanities White Commerce, Accountancy, Business Drab Economics Copper
Education Light Blue
Engineering Orange Fine Arts, including Architecture Brown
Public Administration Peacock Blue Science Golden Yellow
u niversi T y of i daho b oise
Premier Education, Research and Professional Development
University of Idaho Boise originated in 1910 when an agricultural extension program was established in Ada County. In 1953, U of I Boise grew with the introduction of teacher education programs, which were expanded in the early 1980s. A cooperative agreement between the university and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game led to the 1963 opening of the Idaho Water Resources Research Institute (IWRRI) with offices in Boise, Moscow and Idaho Falls. Engineering courses were first delivered in Boise in 1988. Agricultural Extension, regional and state personnel, and several university support offices were located in Boise for greater statewide access and service in the early 1990s. In the late 1990s, Idaho WWAMI opened its doors in Boise and all U of I programmatic, advancement, athletics and other efforts in the community were brought together under the umbrella of U of I Boise. In the early 2000s, the College of Art and Architecture began offering courses in Boise, now including the first two years of its bachelor’s degree in architecture. At the same time, the College of Law started offering externship opportunities and is now offering its complete Juris Doctor curriculum in Boise.
The College of Law moved into its permanent Boise-based facility at 501 W. Front Street in 2021 just a few blocks west of the main U of I Boise campus located at the corner of Broadway and Front. These facilities serve the greater southwest Idaho community by providing classroom space, housing U of I programs, and by hosting events and meetings for diverse groups of external stakeholders.
Today, students, faculty, researchers and staff work on a variety of topics that include water; natural resources and the environment; education; law; community sustainability and design; family economics; childhood education; pesticide safety and management; food technology, safety and processing; water resources engineering; and public policy.
Excellence at U of I Boise can be measured by the success of the many people we serve across the region and by the quality and achievements of our more than 200 faculty and staff members.
U of I Boise provides southwest Idaho access to all university resources. The center is focused on community impact, regional economic development and supporting university growth.
Strategically located in Boise – the economic and governmental center of Idaho and home to more than 55 percent of the state’s population and business entities – U of I Boise supports teaching, learning, research, medical education and outreach. U of I Boise distinguishes itself through:
• Quality programs that accommodate working professionals and full-time students with a focus on professional and workforce development;
• Outreach to southwest Idaho’s communities to foster their sustainability, growth and educational access;
• Proactive research for domestic and global solutions that contributes to the U of I Carnegie R1 classification;
• Collaborative and interdisciplinary work with the public and private sectors, including other institutions of higher education; and
• Enduring relationships with alumni and friends to carry forward the proud history and traditions of the University of Idaho.
At U of I Boise, we welcome and respect all people. As the Boise location of Idaho’s oldest public university, we are committed to serving the region, the state, the nation, and the world.
u
The University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene (U of I Coeur d’Alene) engages university expertise to transform education, develop innovative research, and cultivate a knowledge-based economy throughout North Idaho. Students achieve higher education excellence in Coeur d’Alene through in-person and distance degree programs led by faculty from across the state. More than 30 degrees and programs are available to students who wish to attend the University of Idaho from Coeur d’Alene. A variety of professional development offerings bring continuing education opportunities to professionals in both the public and private sector. Each year programs, including 4-H, Master Gardener, and the Idaho Building Capacity project, serve hundreds of community members. The University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene provides opportunities for all people in North Idaho through its degree programs, technology and research centers, outreach, and collaborative philosophy.
Technological innovation is carving a prominent place into the future of North Idaho. U of I Coeur d’Alene elevates this emerging sector with education opportunities in technology. The College of Engineering at the University of Idaho offers computer science education that is critical for satisfying workforce needs, meeting student demand, and growing the economy in North Idaho. Faculty and students in the Vandal Manufacturing Automation Laboratory support local industry by providing curriculum designed to address industry needs. The recent additions of live lab courses in both the B.S. Medical Sciences and B.S. Industrial Technology degrees bring even more educational opportunities to the area. Increased dual credit offerings have broadened educational pathways for students in Region One high schools.
Surrounded by lakes, rivers, and mountains, U of I Coeur d’Alene is uniquely positioned to build programs in connection to its rich natural environment. U of I Coeur d’Alene is now the home of the Idaho Water Resources Research Institute (IWRRI), where conducted research supports the water resource needs of the state of Idaho. IWRRI is charged with supporting faculty across the state as they work toward excellence in water resource science. IWRRI also plays an important role in facilitating, participating in, and developing innovative education and outreach programs that provide research-generated information to water managers, agency research scientists, and the public. Through collaboration on The Confluence Project, IWRRI at the U of I and fellow regional partners give hundreds of high school students hands-on water science experience from the shores of Coeur d’Alene Lake and the slopes of Lookout Pass. IWRRI also provides lake ambassador training through Bay Watchers, leads community conversations with the Our Gem Collaborative, and educates construction workers on stormwater and erosion control (Panhandle Stormwater and Erosion Education Program).
U of I Coeur d’Alene operates several facilities in the North Idaho region. The Harbor Center in Coeur d’Alene houses classrooms, conference rooms, labs, and offices. The Hedlund Building at North Idaho College (NIC) houses the Computer Science program: classrooms, robotics labs, and offices. The DeArmond Higher Education Center at NIC brings state-of-the-art student services and classroom instruction from several higher education institutions under one roof. In Post Falls, the University of Idaho Jacklin Science and Technology Center supports startup companies, U of I research projects, and U of I Extension in Kootenai County.
Through its degree programs, technology and research centers, and collaborative philosophy, University of Idaho Coeur d’Alene provides opportunity and outreach for all people of North Idaho.
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Celebrating 70 years in eastern Idaho
At the Idaho Falls campus, our core mission is engineering, science, technology and related disciplines. The facilities feature technology enabled classrooms and advanced cybersecurity, energy and engineering laboratories that support the excellence in the curriculum offered. The faculty are recognized leaders in their respective fields and actively engaged in far reaching, impactful research. Collaborations with Idaho National Laboratory, Naval Nuclear Laboratory, local industry and other educational institutions strengthen and expand opportunities for students.
Since our first graduating class in 1955, more than 2000 students have earned degrees through coursework and research at the Idaho Falls location. Students have also completed academic certificates and courses for professional and personal development. We are proud to be part of the community that extends through the entire state of Idaho including the Cooperative Extension Offices in 42 of the counties.
The location in eastern Idaho is ideally situated near the beautiful Snake River and in close proximity to two national parks and many other outdoor recreational areas. Idaho Falls is a regional hub for economic development, commerce, cultural events and health care.
University of Idaho, Idaho Falls faculty and staff congratulate the graduating class of 2025-26 on their achievements. Go Vandals!
Chorus
And here we have Idaho, Winning her way to fame; Silver and Gold in the sunlight blaze, And romance lies in her name; Singing, we’re singing of you, ah, proudly too; All our lives through we’ll go singing, Singing of you, Alma Mater, our Idaho.
