Alumni Stories
We’re proud that our graduates are passionate about their beliefs and about moving the world forward. Collaborative and flexible, PSU alumni know what it takes to make an impact, consider problems from unexpected angles and hit the ground running to create change.
We have more than 190,000 alumni living all over the world, making waves in their fields and putting their passion, skills, and dedication to work in their communities.
Here, we share our incredible alumni’s stories.
Ripple effect
Alumnae Wanda McNealy '20 and Sharona Shnayder '20 start the Tuesdays for Trash movement to raise awareness on climate crisis.
Purposeful Vision
Alumna Nichole Watson '13, MEd '15 perceives a reconstructed community as COVID-19’s silver lining.
Cybersecurity Expert
Alumna Tarah Wheeler '04 becomes prestigious Fulbright Scholar.
Critical Response
MIM grads Gabriela Franco '06 and Francisco Cuerva '06 work to facilitate sample collection kits for COVID-19 testing.
Supporting small businesses
MBA alumni create a volunteer network to help businesses pivot, not panic during COVID-19.
Vital Alliance
Portland Farmers Market led by Trudy Toliver '84 serves the community and vendors through COVID-19 crisis.
Unconventional Fare
Alumnus Charles B. Wilson '11 creates a sustainable alternative food source.
Good Humor
Emmy-award winning alumnus Ian Karmel '10 pitches comedy both day and night.
Style and Substance
Alumna Rose Jubb '11 ignites confidence in women through image consulting.
Sweet Magic
Alumna Lee Hedgmon '03 turns her affinity for honey and talent for distilling into a specialty business.
Peace, Security & Justice for All
Alumna and veteran Pam Campos-Palma's '14 work improves society on a global scale.
Identity design all-star
Graphic Design alumnus Mario Milosevic '06 leads art direction for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Art accessibility
Alumna Nellie Scott '08 promotes art as a means of inspiration, education and social justice.
State of wonder
Alumnus John Waller's '03 sense of adventure elevates his video production company.
realizing potential
Alumna Zanele Mutepfa-Rhone '15 creates platforms that celebrate diversity and unite communities.
Growth Mindset
Alumnus Brian Salvador '10 pursues and shares knowledge to empower himself and others.