Funded by alumni donations and Forever Humboldt fundraising activities, the scholarship recognizes students for their academic achievement, community involvement, financial need, and connections to Humboldt alumni.
This year’s recipients are Royce Ankel (M.S. Natural Resources ‘27), Catherine Maloney (Biology and Art History & Museum Studies ‘27), and Angie Vales, (Geology, ‘29).
Royce Ankel’s journey to Humboldt began decades before she arrived on campus. Her grandparents met at the University 60 years ago while her grandfather was studying Forestry. Inspired by their story, Ankel chose Humboldt to continue that family connection and earn her master’s degree in the same field.
Having grown up in Hong Kong, Munich, New Jersey, and Maryland, Ankel brings a global perspective to her studies. She plans to pursue a Registered Professional Forester license and build a career in the field. When she is not studying, she enjoys rowing, backpacking, skiing, and knitting.
For Catherine Maloney, the University’s natural surroundings, welcoming community, and close-knit learning environment drew her from Yuba City, California, to the North Coast. Since arriving, she has developed meaningful relationships with friends, faculty, classmates, and coworkers.
Maloney is double majoring in Biology and Art History & Museum Studies, with a minor in Chemistry. Her studies reflect a curiosity that spans the sciences and humanities. Biology allows her to investigate the cellular processes behind the human body, while art history offers insight into cultures, histories, and human experiences.
She plans to attend medical school and pursue a career in emergency medicine, where she hopes to provide compassionate care to people during vulnerable moments in their lives.
Maloney is the second member of her family to attend Humboldt, following her cousin. The scholarship strengthens that connection and eases the financial pressure of pursuing her education. It has also inspired her to envision supporting future students one day.
Angie Wangler came to Humboldt from Santa Clarita, California, drawn to the University’s Geology program, community, small classes, and supportive faculty. As she begins her first year of in-person study, she is excited to attend classes, meet new people, and become part of campus life.
Wangler hopes to earn a doctorate and return to Southern California to conduct earthquake research. Her goal is to contribute to earthquake warning systems and help communities prepare for seismic events.
Through the Humboldt Alumni Scholarship, alumni help students dedicate themselves to their education, explore new opportunities, and prepare for meaningful careers. Their generosity connects generations of the Humboldt community and gives today’s students support as they build their futures.
Meet the 2026-27 Cal Poly Humboldt Alumni Scholarship recipients here.