Change is one of the few constants in life. A critical skill to thrive in a world of change is the ability to adapt.

Whether addressing pandemic-altered work and life, managing forests as complex systems, or changing our behavior after new discoveries, adaptation is key to flourishing and moving forward.

At Oregon State University and the College of Forestry, our students, faculty, staff, and alumni have proved they can adapt and thrive in a changing world.

The stories in this issue help illustrate how our ability to adapt and look at things in new ways increases our capacity to recover and flourish. In addition, our capabilities are influenced by the amount of support we have around us.

As a research, education and outreach leader, we have the opportunity to model what it looks like to support and sustain each other and adapt to an ever-changing world. Working together, we can address numerous challenges to support forests, ecosystems and communities to benefit people throughout Oregon and worldwide.

CLASS OF 2021 GRADUATES HONORED AT VIRTUAL CELEBRATION
Dedicated to preparing the future leaders of our working forest landscapes, the college awarded 208 undergraduate degrees and 77 graduate degrees with a virtual celebration held in June. At the celebration, three graduates were presented with awards recognizing their exceptional work during their time at Oregon State:

Stacey Dunkley, bachelor’s degree in forestry, earned the Paul & Neva Dunn Outstanding Senior Award in recognition of her outstanding scholastic achievement and professional ability.

Hanna Girod, bachelor’s degree in renewable materials, received the Harold Bowerman Leadership Award for demonstrated leadership, outstanding contributions and enthusiastic participation in student club activities and college programs.

Paul Catino, bachelor’s degree in forestry, received the Kelly Axe Award for tirelessly supporting professors, fellow students, clubs and college projects during his time at Oregon State.

IN MEMORIAM
The Oregon State College of Forestry mourns the loss of these alumni, friends of the college and former faculty. We wish peace and comfort to their family and friends.

Furthermore, we recognize that many people within the college and college community have lost loved ones this past year. We offer sincere condolences to all who are grieving during this time.

Gene Thompson
Class of 1959
Sept. 10, 1936 – March 16, 2021

James Gordon Fisher
Class of 1956
Feb. 20, 1935 – April 14, 2021

Gary Thad Springer
Class of 1970
Oct. 4, 1948 – May 25, 2021