Noah Schuhmann, Outstanding Student of the Year
Noah Schuhmann, Biology, is an exceptional scholar, a dedicated researcher, and a generous leader whose impact reaches far beyond the classroom. Schuhmann has distinguished himself through extraordinary academic achievement, earning top marks across disciplines. Faculty consistently describe him as one of the most outstanding students they have encountered, thoughtful, precise, intellectually curious, and remarkably humble.
Schuhmann’s commitment to hands-on learning shows in his extensive research contributions. As a central member of Chemistry Professor Claire Till’s lab, he has played a leading role in complex projects, from analyzing trace metals in seawater to co-authoring and leading manuscripts for publication. His work has already resulted in a published paper in the Humboldt Journal of Microbiology, with additional research currently under review. He has presented at the American Chemical Society conference and contributed to interdisciplinary collaborations spanning institutions.
His passion for discovery has taken him far beyond campus. Schuhmann completed two competitive oceanographic research expeditions in a single summer, working long, demanding days at sea while maintaining the curiosity, positivity, and focus that define his approach to science. Whether collecting samples at dawn in the Galápagos or troubleshooting analytical methods in the lab, he brings both authenticity and enthusiasm to every challenge.
Equally impressive is Schuhmann’s commitment to others. As a tutor and Supplemental Instruction Leader, he has empowered fellow students to succeed, fostering confidence, curiosity, and collaboration. His presence elevates every classroom and research team he joins.
Widely regarded by faculty as among the very top students, Schuhmann is an inspiring example of excellence in science, leadership, and community. His future in microbiology and beyond is exceptionally bright.
Bailey Tara Schultz, Outstanding Student of the Year
Bailey Tara Schultz, a Child Development & Family Relationships major, is a transformative leader whose work has strengthened community, expanded access, and redefined inclusion at Cal Poly Humboldt. As president of the American Sign Language (ASL) Club, Schultz revitalized an inactive organization, rebuilding it into a thriving, campus-wide community. Under her leadership, weekly participation grew from zero to more than 35 members, supported by thoughtful programming, meaningful partnerships, and a clear vision for long-term sustainability.
Schultz’s leadership is grounded in both lived experience and professional purpose. As a deaf student, she brings authenticity, insight, and advocacy to every space she enters. She has forged strong connections with the local deaf and hard-of-hearing community through her work with Humboldt County Office of Education’s Special Beginnings program and her support of children and families in the Child Development Lab. Even after completing her internship, she continued volunteering, demonstrating a deep and ongoing commitment to the communities she serves.
Her influence extends across campus. Schultz serves as a student representative on the Dean’s Advisory Council, contributes to faculty hiring processes, and works as an afterschool supervisor supporting over 100 children. As a statistics tutor for college students, she also empowers peers to build confidence and succeed academically.
Schultz’s innovation is equally impactful. She led the revision of a key Child Development practicum document to better reflect diverse communication styles, ensuring more inclusive teaching practices. Now adopted by the department, her work will benefit students for years to come. She is also developing an ASL curriculum for faculty and staff, further embedding accessibility into the University’s culture.
Through vision, advocacy, and action, Schultz has created lasting change. She is an inspiring leader whose work strengthens both campus and community, and whose dedication to inclusion and education will continue to make a meaningful impact.
Academic
Excellence in Academic Discipline for the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Studies
Jennifer Celio-Aburto, Spanish and International Studies
Excellence in Academic Discipline for the College of Professional Studies
Kailey Hall, Psychology
Excellence in Academic Discipline for the College of Natural Resources & Sciences
Jonathan Juarez, Data Science and Economics
Excellence in Academic Discipline for Visual & Performing Arts
Ciel Schlagenhauf, Dance and Kinesiology
Co-Curricular
Excellence in Community Service
Ava Henderson, Anthropology
Excellence in Sustainability
Emily Rich, Child Development & Family Relationships
Student Life
Intercollegiate Athletics or Sports Clubs
Alexis Blue, Journalism
Outstanding Contribution to an Associated Students Program
Emma Botts, Art
Outstanding Contribution to a Campus Club, Program, or Organization
Olivia Chase, Environmental Science & Management
Outstanding for Excellence in Student Employment
Joseph Taylor, Native American Studies
Outstanding Student Researchers
Lorena Cortez, M.A. Education
Max Cartagena, Psychology
Jonathan Juarez, Data Science, Economics
Mariska Kessler, Biology
Mack Kona, Mathematics
Hannah Krubsack, Psychology
Enrique Lopez, Computer Science
Annette Moulay, Environmental Studies
Oli Olson, Philosophy
Sela Raisl, Marine Biology, Mathematics
Delaney Schroeder-Echavarria, M.A. Environment & Community
Evan Simpson, M.S. Fisheries Biology
Brayden Wiley, M.S. Biology
Anthony Wolfe, Mathematics
Sheng Yang, Biology
Patricia O. McConkey Outstanding Graduate Student Award
Anthony Aviles, M.A. Applied Anthropology
Miranda Connelly, Psychology
Sebastian Evans, Natural Resources - Forests, Fire, Watershed & Range
Grace Gonzalez, M.A. Counseling Psychology
Jennifer Gonzales, M.S.W. Social Work
Rachel Matteri, M.A. English
Lacy Mitchell, M.A. Public Sociology
Cameron Piper, M.S. Wildlife
Holly Reed, M.S.W. Social Work
Delaney Schroeder-Echavarria, M.A. Environment & Community
Elizabeth Silver, M.A. Public Sociology
Kaiden Walton, M.S. Biology