Oregon State University (OSU) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and a hub for groundbreaking research, but it’s also making significant strides in sustainability. You might ask, Where Is Oregon State University located to foster such impactful environmental initiatives? Nestled in the vibrant city of Corvallis, Oregon, OSU’s main campus serves as the epicenter for a range of sustainability efforts, driven in part by a passionate team of student interns. These students are not just learning about sustainability in the classroom; they are actively shaping a greener future for the university and the wider community. Let’s meet some of the bright minds contributing to OSU’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Meet the Dedicated Student Team Driving Sustainability at Oregon State University
Oregon State University’s Sustainability Office is a dynamic place where students gain real-world experience while contributing to meaningful environmental projects. The office benefits from the fresh perspectives and energy of student interns from diverse academic backgrounds, all united by a passion for sustainability. Here are some of the talented students who have recently contributed to the office’s mission:
Isabella Clemmens: Graphic Design Expertise for Sustainability
Alt text: Isabella Clemmens, Oregon State University Sustainability Intern, designs marketing materials.
Isabella Clemmens, who joined the Sustainability Office as a Graphic Design Intern in Summer 2023, exemplifies how creative skills can be applied to promote sustainability. Isabella, a fourth-year Marketing major with a Graphic Design minor, played a crucial role in enhancing the visual communication of the office. Her work involved creating engaging marketing materials and transforming complex research data into visually appealing and accessible resources. Beyond her internship, Isabella enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her loved ones, showcasing a well-rounded individual dedicated to both creative pursuits and personal connections.
Samantha Egge: Software Engineering Innovation for a Sustainable Campus
Alt text: Samantha Egge, Oregon State University Software Engineering Intern, develops sustainable web applications.
Samantha Egge brought her software engineering skills to the Sustainability Office in Fall 2023. As a third-year Computer Science student specializing in Web and Mobile Development, Samantha was instrumental in maintaining and developing the Sustainability Office’s online presence. Her contributions to websites and software applications ensured that vital information and resources were readily available to the OSU community. In her downtime, Samantha enjoys outdoor activities with her dogs and indoor hobbies like sewing and reading, balancing her tech expertise with a love for nature and creative relaxation.
Hoku Tiwanak: Outreach and Marketing to Engage the OSU Community
Alt text: Hoku Tiwanak, Oregon State University Marketing Intern, manages social media for sustainability outreach.
Hoku Tiwanak, the Outreach and Marketing Intern from Fall 2023, is a first-year Marketing student with a clear vision for her future – wedding and event planning. However, her passion for nature led her to the Sustainability Office, where she managed social media, email communications, and contributed to the newsletter, blog, and website. Hoku’s role was vital in connecting with the OSU community and promoting sustainability initiatives through effective communication strategies. Her enjoyment of hiking, beaches, and painting reflects her deep connection to the natural world that fuels her commitment to sustainability.
Mia Saunders: Fostering Student Engagement in Sustainability Initiatives
Alt text: Mia Saunders, Oregon State University Student Engagement Intern, facilitates Sustainability Council meetings.
Mia Saunders, joining in Spring 2024 as the Student Engagement Intern, took on the crucial role of Sustainability Council Facilitator. As a third-year Marketing and Sustainability student with a focus on international business, Mia is passionate about connecting students with resources to advance sustainability objectives. Her future aspirations involve supporting sustainable businesses or non-profits, reflecting her dedication to making a global impact. Mia’s love for the outdoors and socializing with friends complements her professional drive to promote sustainability in a connected and engaging way.
Tucker Kirkes: Assessment and Planning for a Lower Carbon Footprint
Alt text: Tucker Kirkes, Oregon State University Assessment and Planning Intern, promotes carbon emission reduction.
Tucker Kirkes, the Assessment and Planning Intern from Spring 2024, is a first-year Environmental Science student deeply involved in OSU’s sustainability assessment and green building standards. Tucker’s work focuses on implementing projects and practices that directly reduce carbon emissions, a critical aspect of OSU’s environmental responsibility. Interestingly, Tucker is also an active member of the Corvallis-OSU Symphony Orchestra, showcasing a blend of scientific interest and artistic talent. His extensive travel experience across 9 countries and 22 states likely provides him with a broad perspective on environmental challenges and solutions.
Isabel Curtin: Energy Efficiency and Green Infrastructure for OSU’s Future
Alt text: Isabel Curtin, Oregon State University Energy Intern, reads utility meters for energy efficiency analysis.
Isabel Curtin, who became the Energy Intern in Fall 2024, is a second-year Civil Engineering major with a Sustainability minor. Her career goal is to work in green infrastructure, promoting sustainable practices in urban development. Isabel’s role involves improving energy efficiency on campus through utility meter readings and analyzing building plans. Her passion for staying active with activities like soccer, volleyball, hiking, and camping aligns perfectly with her professional focus on creating a more sustainable built environment.
Brandon Lee: Software Engineering Supporting Campus Sustainability Systems
Alt text: Brandon Lee, Oregon State University Software Engineer Intern, maintains sustainability kiosks and cloud applications.
Brandon Lee, joining as a Software Intern in Fall 2024, is a third-year Computer Science major specializing in Artificial Intelligence. Brandon collaborates with Samantha Egge to maintain the technological infrastructure of the Sustainability Office, including kiosks, cloud applications, and website development. His interest in AI brings a forward-thinking approach to sustainability challenges. In his free time, Brandon enjoys poker, basketball, exploring new cuisines, and traveling, demonstrating a diverse range of interests beyond his technical skills.
Corvallis, Oregon: Location of Innovation and Sustainable Action at OSU
So, where is Oregon State University in the context of sustainability? It’s not just a geographical location in Corvallis, Oregon, but a vibrant hub of activity where students like Isabella, Samantha, Hoku, Mia, Tucker, Isabel, and Brandon are actively contributing to a greener future. These interns, through their diverse roles and projects, exemplify OSU’s commitment to sustainability and provide valuable experience for the next generation of environmental leaders. Located in the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its natural beauty and environmental consciousness, Oregon State University is perfectly positioned to continue leading the way in sustainability education and action.
