Mayson Whipple Academic Services Coordinator mkwhipple@fortlewis.edu First gen My name is Mayson, and I recently completed my PhD in Chemical Engineering at Michigan State University. I grew up in a rural farming town in Illinois, and as a first-generation college student, I know firsthand the importance of strong mentorship and support in navigating higher education. Thanks to the guidance I received along the way, I’ve had opportunities to live, study, and work around the world – from Michigan, to Portugal, Japan, and now here in Durango. Athletics were my first introduction to mentorship – both being mentored and being a mentor myself. As an undergraduate, I supported freshmen athletes on my basketball and track & field teams, helping them become acquainted with college level athletics and academics. This experience taught me the importance of community, accountability, and empathy, all of which shape how I support students today. In graduate school, I taught undergraduate chemistry and engineering courses and guided undergraduate researchers in the lab, helping them build confidence in their academic abilities, navigate research, and take steps in their career goals. I’m excited to be part of the TRIO STEM3 team and to continue supporting students through this important and transitional period in their lives. In my free time, I enjoy reading, hiking, snowboarding, and playing basketball. I look forward to connecting with people at the college and becoming part of the surrounding community.