Give Back

Shawn Thompson, Spring 2015 Recipient

Shawn Thompson, also the daughter of an HSU alumna, has spent more than a decade involved in the welfare of her community in both public schools and mental health. She is currently at work on a Master’s of Social Work degree.. Thompson is actively involved with Hospice of Humboldt and is developing ways to train grief-support volunteers as her capstone project.As a social worker, Thompson aims to build on her teaching experience and expand her problem solving skills by working with families to develop secure relationships, supportive environments, and a more resilient community.

Laura Kiewel, Spring 2014 Recipient

Laura Kiewel, a major in Psychology, was moved to return to school and focus on her career after witnessing her uncle complete his degree following a lay off nearly 10 years ago. Now, Kiewel is poised to enter her senior year with a near-perfect GPA as she works on earning a bachelor’s degree in the Academic Research Developmental psychology program at HSU. Kiewel supports her academics by working as both a teaching and research lab assistant while maintaining a part time job off campus. After earning her degree, Kiewel plans on attending a Ph.D. program in Human Development where she’ll research positive interventions in early child trauma.

Tyler Warren, Spring 2014 Recipient

After seeing campus on a tour with his aunt—a 1970 sociology grad—nearly five years ago, Tyler Warren has been waiting to transfer to the HSU campus ever since. The Napa-valley native was immediately attracted to the open and accepting campus culture and set his sights on attending HSU after completing three years at a junior college.Seeking a career that is both rewarding and meaningful, Warren enrolled in HSU’s Elementary Education program. Since then he’s been able to volunteer in a local kindergarten classroom and has joined the Student California Teachers Association.To enhance his teaching career, Warren plans on becoming fluent in Spanish and hopes to go abroad to teach English after graduating in 2016. Warren also plans on earning a teaching credential at HSU.

Jesse Carpentier, Spring 2013 Recipient

Jesse Carpentier is the niece of a pair of Humboldt Alumni. She is majoring in Economics while earning a minor in Business. She currently represents the College of Professional Studies in HSU's student government. Carpentier is committed to the success of her fellow students. She works as a academic mentor with the campus's Residential Academic Mentoring Program and as a math tutor in the Learning Center. After graduating, she hopes to earn a teaching credential and teach Economics in high school.

Chetco Jamgochian, Spring 2013 Recipient

Chetco Jamgochian is a third-generation Humboldt State student. He is pursuing his undergraduate degree in Environmental Resources Engineering and minoring in Appropriate Technology. Jamgochian plans to focus his studies on renewable energy sources and sustainable, self-sufficient systems. His career and academic goals include becoming involved in renewable power production and earning a Master's degree in the process.Jamgochian is currently a volunteer at the Schatz Energy Resource Center and spends his summers teaching children at summer camps about renewable energies.

Sam Sellers

While Sam Sellers is deeply interested in his major, Computer Information Systems, he looks forward to a career in law enforcement, having graduated at the top of his class in the 109th Police Academy at College of the Redwoods. After earning his degree, Sam hopes to further his law enforcement training and to eventually join the San Diego Drug Task Force in patrolling the California-Mexico border. Sam follows in his mother's footsteps in becoming an HSU alum.

Mark Seymour

"It was an early Christmas present getting into Humboldt," said Mark Seymour. A stop on the way between Sacramento and his hometown of Bellingham, Washington around Thanksgiving led to a visit to Humboldt State University, and a very last-minute acceptance letter. "I knew I wanted to be in California and I'd been in Santa Cruz and then in Sacramento, but I wanted to be closer to home," said Mark. "Arcata is so similar to my hometown. Nature and the outdoors are a part of life here." Two years into his undergraduate degree, Mark plans on working with habitat restoration after graduation. "I want to be an integral part in bringing watersheds back nearer to their natural state. Reversing the effects of people and time is doable though it takes enormous effort on many facets," Mark said. A Master's degree may be in his future, but he's decided to have a go at the job market first. "I'm so grateful for it, every little bit helps," Mark said on receiving the scholarship. "After being in a crunch, everything helps."

Courtney Snyder

Courtney Snyder is an Anthropology major focusing on cross-cultural birthing techniques. In 2010, she studied abroad at the Xi'an International Studies University in China, which helped her earn a minor in Chinese Studies. After graduating, Courtney hopes to become a certified midwife along with earning certification in other areas of perinatal care. Courtney's older sister is an HSU alum.

Griffin Bacik

Griffin Bacik claimed to have never been one of those people who were good at everything, but with a few experiences with some inspiring teachers, he found his passion in science. "I was good at it – really good!" said Griffin. Currently a senior at Ukiah High School, Griffin is looking forward to studying biotechnology at Humboldt State, the alma mater of both his parents. "I like the idea of Humboldt as a small college; I think it will be more comfortable. Plus there are such great sciences here," said Griffin. Coming from a supportive family and a friendly town, Griffin says he is a lucky guy. Knowing this, he wants to help those he thinks aren't as lucky as he. "I wish to help those who have suffered devastating injuries, and perhaps, someday even help to prolong human life," said Griffin. "With the ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, I believe there is a real need for such research. I hope my luck will be someone else's gain." Receiving this scholarship wasn't all luck, however, and the funds will help Griffin defray the cost of books and tuition. "I'm honored to receive the award and I absolutely appreciate the help."

Daniel Birmingham

Daniel received his bachelor's degree in Sociology in 2010 and is currently working on his Certificate of Study in Geographic Information Systems. Daniel has been a dedicated member of the Y.E.S. House (Youth Educational Services) and even received the President's Volunteer Service Award for his work.