ROTC cadet leads dramatic avalanche rescue While skiing in the backcountry near Whistler, British Columbia, Oregon State sophomore Emily Self found herself caught in an avalanche. A biochemistry and molecular biology student and Army ROTC cadet, Self was buried up to her waist in snow — the only one in her group still visible. Drawing on an avalanche safety course completed earlier that day, she quickly switched her transceiver to search mode and began rescuing the others. She first freed a 16-year-old girl, then helped revive the girl’s brother, who had been buried face down and wasn’t breathing at first. After freeing their guide, she reached her own brother, who had been trapped under the snow for about 15 minutes. Miraculously, all five skiers survived without serious injuries. Self credits her ROTC training for keeping her calm and focused under pressure. The experience reinforced her confidence in handling high-stress situations — skills she’ll continue to build as she pursues both her science degree and her future military career. A prestigious DOE research fellowship to uncover what fuels toxic algae Kelly Shannon, a Ph.D. student in microbiology, was awarded a prestigious U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science Graduate Student Research award — one of only 79 granted nationwide. The award provides funding and access to national laboratories for research aligned with the DOE’s mission. Shannon studies harmful algal blooms caused by cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae. These blooms can release toxins that threaten drinking water, wildlife and recreation. His research focuses on how cyanobacteria access and share nitrogen, a nutrient that fuels bloom growth. He’s also exploring how vitamin B1 and a natural toxin may shape interactions between different algae species. He will conduct his research at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under the mentorship of microbial ecologist Xavier Mayali, with guidance from Oregon State microbiologists Rick Colwell and Chris Suffridge. His work aims to uncover hidden microbial processes that drive harmful algal bloom development and toxicity. Shannon earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in microbiology from OSU. He called the award “an absolute honor,” adding that the opportunity to work at a national lab with expert mentorship means the world to him. Oregon State University students, led by the Pre-Dental Club, hosted an annual “Impact Your Health Clinic” to provide free dental care to underserved populations. Organized in partnership with Caring Hands Worldwide, the event helps overcome barriers that low-income and homeless individuals face in accessing dental services. Many patients, often without dental insurance or regular care, come from Corvallis and surrounding areas. Biohealth sciences senior and former club president Anika Phuvasate emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment for patients who frequently experience stigma due to poor oral health. The clinic offers cleanings, extractions and fillings to restore dental health and dignity. For students, the clinic is also an invaluable learning experience. Vice President Yasmeen Koborsi said it strengthened her commitment to dentistry and inspired her to pursue further education at Oregon Health & Science University. Corvallis dentist and clinic advisor Dr. Cam Little guided students through hands-on patient care, enriching their practical skills. The clinic shows how accessible, compassionate dental care can improve lives, boosting both health and confidence for those in need. Students help provide free dental care to local underserved communities Pre-dental students organized this outreach event to connect community members in need with dentists (left) while building their own experience with patients (right). IMPACT FALL 2025 3
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