Awards

Mark Bransom

Received: 2024

'87 Natural Resources Planning & Interpretation

Mark Bransom is the chief executive officer of the Klamath River Renewal Corporation (KRRC). With over 25 years of experience in planning, engineering, and construction in water resources and environmental management, he has worked with state and local governments, federal agencies, Tribal Nations, NGOs, and private sector clients throughout the West.

Bransom is known for his technical expertise and ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders. He is currently leading the Klamath River Renewal Corporation, a nonprofit organization formed by signatories of the amended Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement. The organization is working to restore the natural vitality of the Klamath River in order to benefit all communities in the Basin.

Bransom’s previous roles include serving as the senior vice president of Water Resources & Environmental Management at CH2MHill, where he oversaw various water infrastructure and environmental restoration projects. Additionally, he has taught, conducted research, and consulted on natural resources management and infrastructure projects as a faculty member at Oregon State University, where he received a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
 

Aldaron Laird

Received: 2024

Attended 1975-1978 Biology

Aldaron Laird is celebrated for his profound contributions to environmental planning, sea-level rise assessment, and habitat restoration. His interdisciplinary expertise, scientific understanding, and artistic creativity have significantly impacted the Humboldt Bay region and beyond.

Laird’s early career began with tree planting and watershed restoration projects in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As a founding member of the Northcoast Reinhabitation Group, he contributed to some of the first watershed restoration efforts in Redwood National and State Park. He also played a key role in developing the California Salmonid Stream Habitat Restoration Manual, a seminal guide still widely used today.

His work in photographing and mapping Humboldt Bay's failing dikes provided crucial evidence to regional authorities about the threats to local infrastructure. This work, often completed by kayak, has been instrumental in advancing the understanding and planning for sea-level rise. Laird's leadership in the development of a Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment for Humboldt Bay has set a benchmark for West Coast communities, involving a diverse range of stakeholders from tribes to state agencies.

Laird's commitment to environmental education is evident through his involvement with Cal Poly Humboldt. He inspired the formation of the Cal Poly Humboldt Sea Level Rise Institute (SLRI) in 2018, which has become a critical hub for research and collaboration on sea-level rise issues in Northern California. His extensive outreach includes numerous guest lectures, seminars, and capstone projects that provide invaluable real-world experience to students.

His work has brought much-needed attention to the hazards of sea-level rise and the importance of habitat restoration in the Humboldt Bay region. His recent book, "A Photographic Exploration of Wigi (currently called Humboldt Bay)," published by the University Press, further showcases his dedication to documenting and raising awareness about environmental issues.

His tireless efforts, innovative solutions, and passionate advocacy for environmental conservation have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and shape the future of natural resource management.

Dan Sealy

Received: 2024

'75 Natural Resources

Dan Sealy, a dedicated environmental advocate and mentor, recently retired from a fulfilling 33-year career with the National Park Service. His journey in environmental conservation began at Cal Poly Humboldt, where a career day encounter with the superintendent of Redwood National Park inspired him to apply to the National Park Service. Upon graduation, Sealy began his career at Muir Woods National Monument, a path that led him to numerous opportunities nationwide.

Sealy embodies the Forever Humboldt spirit through his giving, promoting, and volunteering at Humboldt. He serves as a cabinet member for Cal Poly Humboldt Foundation’s Boldly Rising Campaign. He is the alumni representative of Humboldt for the California State University Alumni Council. He also contributes quarterly to the Humboldt Loyalty Fund, supporting projects that enhance the student experience, like updates to the biomechanics lab to new equipment for the Coral Sea research vessel.

In addition to his financial support, Sealy volunteers with the Northcoast Environmental Center (NEC), where he collaborates and mentors student interns and serves on the board of directors. As a guest lecturer on natural resources policy at Humboldt, Sealy remains deeply connected to the University community.

His commitment to Cal Poly Humboldt and environmental conservation extends to his role as the Legislative Analyst for the NEC, where he mentors students through the Environmental Policy Internship. This program, which he started in 2013, provides students with hands-on experience in environmental policy. Sealy’s guidance helps students track legislation, write briefs, and engage in local conservation efforts.

His influence extends beyond individual mentorship. His efforts ensure that the NEC remains vibrant and forward-thinking by integrating new perspectives from students. This two-way street enriches both the organization and the interns, preparing them for careers in environmental advocacy.

Sealy's passion, kindness, and extensive knowledge have made him a beloved mentor. Sealy has been described as a dedicated supervisor who genuinely wants his interns to succeed. His support continues long after the internship ends, as he remains a resource and friend to his former mentees.

Jessie Uehling

Received: 2024

'10, '12 Botany, M.S. Biology

Jessie Uehling’s passion for Botany and mycology was evident early on. She excelled in her undergraduate Botany courses and contributed significantly as a graduate student and teaching assistant in the Biology department at Cal Poly Humboldt. She credits much of her career success to the quality training and inspirational students, staff, and professors in the Biology Department at Humboldt. 

During her graduate studies under Terry Henkel, Uehling conducted groundbreaking research on tropical ectomycorrhizal fungal diversity, including fieldwork in the remote Amazonian rainforest of Guyana. Her work led to the description of eight new fungal species and the publication of three peer-reviewed papers. These achievements paved the way for her acceptance into the Ph.D. program in Genetics and Genomics at Duke University, where she further distinguished herself with pioneering research on the fungal microbiome using cutting-edge genomics approaches. After completing her doctorate, Uehling undertook postdoctoral research at UC Berkeley.

In 2020, Uehling joined Oregon State University as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology. Her research at OSU has gained international recognition for its contributions to understanding the fungal microbiome. To date, Uehling has published over 30 peer-reviewed papers and textbook chapters, solidifying her reputation as an expert in fungal biology.

Her achievements demonstrate the strong foundation provided by her education at Humboldt. Beyond her research, Uehling is a dedicated teacher and mentor, known for her positive impact on students. She has developed educational materials for K-12 classrooms, benefiting over 150 children across multiple states. Committed to public service, she is the Governor’s appointed mycologist for the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board, where she contributes to shaping public health policies related to fungal medicines.

Uehling's contributions to science and public policy have earned her numerous accolades. These include the Cal Poly Humboldt McConkey Outstanding Graduate Student Award, the Alistair McCrone Graduate Fellowship Award, the Gregory Mark Jennings Research Dissemination grant, the Department of Energy graduate fellowship, and several national fellowships and awards from the Mycological Society of America. Her work has been featured in various media outlets, including podcasts, ESPN documentaries, and articles in National Geographic, Scientific American, and Science Daily. As a hobby, Uehling creates educational mycological short films. 

Uehling's career is a testament to the high-caliber education and research training she received at Cal Poly Humboldt, and she continues to inspire current and future students with her dedication and success in the field of mycology.

Sawar Young-Tripp

Received: 2024

‘99 Biology

Dr. Sawar Young-Tripp is a dedicated medical professional and a proud alumna of Cal Poly Humboldt.

The first person from the Yurok Tribe to become an MD, Dr. Young-Tripp has made significant strides in healthcare. Her commitment to her heritage and community is evident in her decision to return to Humboldt County to practice medicine, despite opportunities elsewhere. She currently serves as a family physician at the Open Door Arcata Community Health Center. She has previously worked for Tribal Health entities such as the Klamath Tribal Health Clinic in Chiloquin, Oregon, The Karuk Tribal Health Clinic in Orleans, California, and locally at United Indian Health Services Clinics in Weitchpec and Arcata.

While in her undergraduate studies at Cal Poly Humboldt, she worked as a lab tech in the Telonicher Marine Lab and was an active researcher in Professor Jacob Varkey’s genetics lab. After graduating from Humboldt, she worked for Humboldt County Public Health and United Indian Health Services as a health educator and consultant. By the time she entered medical school in 2001 at the University of Washington School of Medicine, she was already a mother of two young sons, and while she was in residency training at the Oregon Health and Sciences University, her daughter was born. While in medical training she served the Native American community and was recognized for her efforts through the University of Washington’s Angela Paez Leadership Award. Dr. Young-Tripp is an inspiration for working mothers everywhere.

At every clinic she has worked, Dr. Young-Tripp is responsible for the primary care of approximately 1,000 patients, offering her expertise and compassion to the community she holds dear. Known for her holistic approach to medicine, she emphasizes the biopsychosocial model of medicine and takes the time to understand and address the root causes of her patients' ailments. Dr. Young-Tripp's dedication to patient care and her relentless pursuit of evidence-based treatments have made her a beloved and respected figure in the community.

From her educational achievements at Cal Poly Humboldt to her impactful medical practice in Humboldt County, Dr. Young-Tripp’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her community and her pioneering spirit in the field of medicine.

Mark Murray

Received: 2024

Attended 1981-1987 Political Science

Mark Murray has made innumerable contributions to resource conservation and environmental protection through the development and advocacy of much of California’s nation-leading waste reduction and recycling policy. 

Cal Poly Humboldt is a primary inspiration behind Murray’s influential career instilling in him a deep-rooted commitment to the environment and civic engagement. As a cross-country runner under legendary coach Jim Hunt, Murray cultivated a love of the natural environment during runs through the Community Forest, Arcata Marsh, Lanphere Dunes, and Patrick’s Point.

As a student, Murray exhibited a passion for hands-on politics, serving as Chair of the Student Legislative Council, and elected Student Body President (85-86). In 1987, Murray helped develop and campaign for the Humboldt Graduation Pledge for Social Responsibility, which was passed by students and remains a part of the Cal Poly Humboldt graduation tradition. It has subsequently been adopted by more than 100 universities. By stretching outside the classroom and engaging in the campus and broader community, Murray cultivated skills and experience that he would lean on throughout his career in state politics. 

Murray, as the long-time executive director of Californians Against Waste, has helped create much of California’s waste reduction and recycling policy framework. From 1989 legislation (AB 939) which made curbside recycling a reality statewide, to pioneering e-waste recycling policies, to producer responsibility for recycling ‘problem products’ like carpet and mattresses, to expansion of the Bottle Bill, which last year recycled 70 percent of the more than 28 billion containers sold.

Murray was an early leader in recognizing the threat posed by plastic pollution and the need to reduce and recycle. Murray helped forge ‘first in the nation’ ordinances banning polystyrene, and statewide bans on single-use plastic bags, and plastic micro-beads. Recent efforts have established ‘circular economy’ requirements of 75% recycling and 50% recycled content for plastic bottles.

Madison Richardson

Received: 2024

I am absolutely honored to be the recipient of the Michael G. Scott Outstanding Senior in Fisheries Biology Award. I want to thank Michael G. Scott for his military service, forestry service, and his contributions to fisheries biology. This award would not be possible without him, and I hope to honor his legacy in the field of fisheries biology. Thank you to all of the amazing people that have supported me along this journey, including my exceptional friends who always motivated me to do my best, the incredible faculty in the Department of Fisheries Biology who offered me countless opportunities to develop my skills as a scientist, and my loving family who inspired me to pursue my passion in this field.

I arrived at Cal Poly Humboldt as a transfer student from Reedley College in the Central Valley. I quickly seized every opportunity to get my hands dirty whether it was puking and reeling in rockfish from MPAs, sifting through coastal sediment samples, or spawning trout in the hatchery.

The aspects of this program that I value the most are how many skills I’ve gotten the opportunity to develop in every single class. Whether it was seining and identifying local marine fish and invertebrates, reading scales to age Micropterus salmoides, extracting eDNA from water samples, and modeling catch per unit of effort of Micropogonias undulatus. I have been able to apply these techniques to my professional life which have allowed me to get recruited to work in many different projects. This department allows students to be immersed in fisheries biology and I truly believe this program is one of a kind. The friends I have gained through this department, both classmates and faculty, are friendships I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I am so glad that I didn’t listen to anyone that said I would get homesick if I moved to Humboldt by myself, because I now have two homes and two families.

After graduation, I will be working remotely for NOAA CoastWatch as a contracted specialist where I will help develop satellite products and work on projects with other NOAA scientists dependent upon their research. I have the unique opportunity to combine my love for fisheries and statistics with this job, and I am incredibly thankful to have interned the previous summer for NOAA CoastWatch which has made this current position possible. Looking further down the line, I hope to make helpful contributions to science wherever it can be improved to help better the lives of all living things on this planet. Thank you to all those who have supported me. I am honored by this recognition, and I am excited for the journey ahead!

Daniel Ortiz

Received: 2024

Institution: Stanford Institute for Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine (Daniel)
Principal Investigator: Dr Gerlinda Wernig
Host Mentor: Dr. Cristabelle De Souza
Project Title: Exploring CAR-T cells as potential therapy for Lung and Liver Fibrosis

Michael Lynch

Received: 2022

'11 Business Administration

Michael Lynch (‘11, Business Administration) is a social entrepreneur and certified professional fundraiser. He is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Improve Your Tomorrow, Inc (IYT), an education nonprofit that, for the last 10 years, has worked to close the college opportunity gap and improve the life outcomes for thousands of young men of color across Northern California.

After receiving his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Sacramento State, Michael began his career as a Senate Fellow in the California State Legislature. He quickly became a senior policy advisor for a State Assembly member, where he staffed dozens of bills, nine of which became law. Michael serves as a Governor's appointee to the Commission on California Volunteers, a Senior Fellow for the American Leadership Forum, and a Senior Fellow for the Nehemiah Emerging Leaders Program and the Sierra Health Foundation’s Health Leadership Program. Michael has been recognized among the top 25 Black Changemakers by the Sacramento Bee, 40 under 40 by the Sacramento Business Journal, and 100 business leaders by the Sacramento Magazine.

Cassandra Hesseltine

Received: 2022

'96 Psychology

Cassandra Hesseltine (‘96, Psychology) is a trailblazer in the world of film as the current Humboldt-Del Norte County Film Commissioner. Since 2010, she has been instrumental in creating temporary jobs in the region while stimulating the economy with outside dollars by assisting film productions in shooting among the redwoods.

Before becoming commissioner, she spent decades working in theatre, TV, and film throughout California, gaining extensive experience in the entertainment business.

Hesseltine facilitated the creation of captivating films, magazine photoshoots, print ads, TV shows, and commercials within Humboldt and Del Norte counties. She assisted in countless projects filmed in the region, like Swiss Army Man and Bird Box, and big-budget studio productions, such as A Wrinkle in Time.

Hesseltine has gained respect and accolades from industry professionals within the local region she represents, the state, and worldwide.

In 2015, as a Film Liaisons In California Statewide (FLICS) member, she worked to expand California’s TV and Film tax incentive program, helping California remain the top production center in the world. For three years, she served as the President of FLICS, showcasing her profound expertise and dedication. Additionally, she holds certification as a film commissioner from the Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI).

In 2017, she won Woman of Distinction, presented by the Kiwanis Club of Henderson Center at the Fourth Annual Women in Business Luncheon. In the fall of 2019, she was one of five finalists for Outstanding Film Commission in the world for Location Manager Guild International’s award show for her work on A Wrinkle in Time.

Jack McGurk

Received: 2022

'66 Biology

Jack McGurk (‘66, Biology) spent 30 years working in the California Department of Health Services. He served as chief of the Environmental Management Branch and oversaw eight environmental health programs, including medical waste management. Jack was crucial in developing the California Medical Waste Management Act legislation. His innovative medical waste reduction and pollution prevention program was honored with 2002, 2003, and 2004 Champion for Change Awards from Hospitals for a Healthy Environment. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded him the 2004 Region IX Environmental Award for outstanding achievement in leading those efforts. As the owner and president of Systems Improvement Initiators, Inc., he offered expertise and guidance to businesses and hospitals to help improve operations and implement cost-effective environmental solutions. Jack assisted hospitals in reducing healthcare-acquired infections through improved cleaning techniques.

Jack's commitment extends to education, as he serves as the Cal Poly Humboldt Foundation Vice Chair and created two Cal Poly Humboldt scholarship endowments for nursing and marine biology students, totaling $500,000. Inspired by his wife's battle with cancer, the nursing scholarship honors those who provided their family with exceptional care. McGurk's dedication to positively impacting Humboldt students’ lives is evident in all his endeavors.

Vinnie Baroga

Received: 2022