{"id":243540,"date":"2026-05-05T07:03:29","date_gmt":"2026-05-05T11:03:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/?p=243540&preview=true&preview_id=243540"},"modified":"2026-05-04T13:21:30","modified_gmt":"2026-05-04T17:21:30","slug":"cahnr-class-of-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/2026\/05\/cahnr-class-of-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"CAHNR’s Class of 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

On May 9 and 11, 2026, the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR)<\/a> and the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture will recognize graduates as they meet a major academic milestone.<\/em><\/p>\r\n

Learn about a few of the nearly 600 stellar students who will soon become CAHNR alumni.<\/em><\/p>\r\n

Andrei Abarientos, Pathobiology and Veterinary Science<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown:<\/strong> Higganum, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why UConn? <\/strong>I was drawn to CAHNR’s smaller-feel and community paired with immense resources for learning. I like working with a large variety of different perspectives.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I’m a Pathobiology major (as well as a sociology major). I started within MCB, but after working with Dr. Verardi in his lab studying vaccines against tickborne viruses, I became more interested in infectious diseases, One Health, and the disease-centric models that were present in Pathobiology. I also enjoyed the smaller and more personal feel of Pathobiology.<\/p>\r\n

Plans after graduation?<\/strong> I’m planning on working for two years with Dr. Tirloni at Rocky Mountain Laboratories studying the interactions between ticks, pathogens, and hosts. Beyond that, I’m interested in pursuing medical school.<\/p>\r\n

\"Andrei<\/figure>\r\n

Jacqueline Baron, Natural Resources and the Environment<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Mahopac, NY<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I was drawn to UConn’s opportunities in undergraduate research, wide range of classes offered, and strength in environmental science and natural resources programs. I saw myself being successful with the larger class sizes and ability to connect with a variety of departments.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I am a Natural Resources major, concentrating in Water Resources and Climate and minoring in Chemistry. Environmental health has always been an interesting subject to me, so the intersection between environmental systems and chemical properties was the perfect way to explore that field of study.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>Don’t be shy! The best way to meet people is by participating in events and activities that you enjoy. Your willingness to put yourself out there is the first step to a university full of connections.<\/p>\r\n

\"Jacqueline<\/figure>\r\n
\"Neil<\/figure>\r\n

Neil Chaoui, Allied Health Sciences<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Casablanca, Morocco<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>Being from overseas, I knew that I wanted to integrate a university that is welcoming to international students and still offers many opportunities to succeed and find my path so UConn seemed to be the best option.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I was really interested in healthcare and working in this environment so I enjoyed how well rounded Allied Health Sciences as a major is. You are able to explore many different paths without being penalized or being stuck with specific course that you are not necessarily interested in.<\/p>\r\n

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in your life? <\/strong>UConn has prepared me very well for the next chapter in my life. It has given the scientific tools and knowledge to feel prepared for higher education through rigorous classes that allow you to actually learn.<\/p>\r\n

Ileia Gibbs, Animal Science<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown:<\/strong> Pasadena, CA<\/p>\r\n

Why UConn? <\/strong>From the start of my college search, I knew I wanted to major in Animal Science, and UConn stood out to me because of the department’s hands-on approach to learning. I am within close distance to barns and facilities with livestock that allow me to learn beyond the classroom. I am also from the West Coast so I was also excited to experience what living on the East Coast would be like!<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I am majoring in Animal Science on the Pre-Vet track because of my aspiration to become a Veterinarian. I was drawn to this field because my love for science, animals, and working with people all intersect in veterinary medicine.\u00a0 In this profession I can be the person responsible for the medical care of pets alongside supporting their families in any way possible.<\/p>\r\n

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in your life? <\/strong>“We can do hard things, but we don’t have to do them alone.” My adviser gave me this piece of advice during a time when I was struggling academically, but I think it encapsulates the support and the community that UConn and CAHNR provide. My classes, teachers, and peers have taught me to be adaptable, determined and confident as I prepare for vet school and the next chapter of my life.<\/p>\r\n

\"Portrait<\/figure>\r\n

Daniel Hand, Plant Science and Landscape Architecture<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Meriden, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I transferred to UConn from a private college mostly because it was way more affordable as UConn is my state school. I also already knew a lot of people here, so it felt like an easy and comfortable transition.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I’m a landscape architecture major. I got into it because I’ve always loved plants, but I also wanted to shape cities and have a real impact on the built environment.<\/p>\r\n

How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in your life? <\/strong>It’s really pushed me to think critically about how design impacts people and communities, not just aesthetics. I’ve also gained a lot of hands-on skills and confidence in articulating ideas, which makes me feel way more prepared to enter the professional world.<\/p>\r\n

\"Daniel<\/figure>\r\n
\"Tessa<\/figure>\r\n

Tessa Hospod, Plant Science and Landscape Architecture<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Hanover, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>The academic programs and opportunities in scientific field research in CAHNR that I experienced as an undergraduate student at UConn allowed me to gain practical, hands-on experience in my field of study. When I decided to pursue a master’s degree in turfgrass sciences, I was confident that the turfgrass program had a strong presence in research, extension, and industry, making my choice to continue my education at UConn an easy one.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I am a master’s student in Plant Sciences with a concentration in agronomy. My experience working as an undergraduate research assistant at the Plant Science Research Farm and Education Facility drew me to continue my education in this field of study and focus on turfgrass management. Growing up, I always enjoyed playing competitive sports and working outdoors; discovering turfgrass management as a career option was a perfect fit for me.<\/p>\r\n

Plans for after graduation? <\/strong>After graduation, I will be pursuing a career in the turfgrass industry working for MTE Equipment Solutions as a Turf Equipment Sales Representative.<\/p>\r\n

\"Sofie<\/figure>\r\n

Sofie Jepsen, Agricultural and Resource Economics<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Chatham, New Jersey<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>When I first visited UConn, it immediately felt like the right place for me. I also remember before committing, a couple faculty members from CAHNR took the time to meet with my family and me. This meant a lot and showed how much CAHNR and the ARE department cares about their students, something hard to find at such a large school. That personal attention made a large university feel welcoming and confirmed that UConn\/CAHNR was the right place for me.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I am a dual degree student, majoring in applied and resource economics as well as business management. I have always been passionate about sustainability, and after taking AP economics in high school, I became interested in how sustainability initiatives can be analyzed and advocated for from a business and financial perspective. The specialized nature of applied and resource economics in conjunction with the broader perspective of business management really appealed to me, and I am confident this combination has given me the tools to succeed in my future endeavors.<\/p>\r\n

Top UConn memories? <\/strong>If there is one thing that everyone should experience at least once during their time at UConn, it’s a women’s and men’s basketball game! The energy, school spirit, and sense of community are unforgettable. Being a part of these events really makes you feel like part of the UConn Husky community!<\/p>\r\n

Lauren Kasdan, Animal Science<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Maplewood, NJ<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I chose UConn because of how beautiful the campus is, the access to such a variety of species to work with, and the plethora of research opportunities. This, in addition to the exciting sports and musical performance experiences, guaranteed that UConn was the place for me!<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>My major is Animal Science on the pre-veterinary track. I have had a lifelong passion for animals and have wanted to become a veterinarian since before I can remember. I have already gotten my first few vet school acceptances, and I am excited about what the future holds.<\/p>\r\n

Top UConn memories? <\/strong>Horsebarn Hill in early fall! It is quintessentially the heart of Storrs. It’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset, enjoy Dairy Bar ice cream, and appreciate the surroundings of the CT countryside.<\/p>\r\n

\"Lauren<\/figure>\r\n

Jessica Lema, Allied Health Sciences<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Newtown, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>Growing up, my father and I used to watch the UConn men’s basketball team together, which made me fall in love with the school’s spirit and energy. I knew UConn was a place where I would feel at home. I chose CANHR because I knew that I wanted to become part of the health care field, but I needed guidance towards figuring out what career fits my interests the most.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I am an Allied Health Major (standard concentration), and an HDFS minor. I was drawn to AHS because of the variety of courses that were available to students, from classes about public health to hands-on classes like EMT training.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>My advice for incoming students is to take advantage of events like the Pathways in Health Sciences Career Panel and Hands-on Healthcare Simulation experiences. These opportunities help you build connections, explore career paths, and meet new peers. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to reach out to your CAHNR professors and advisors; they are there to support and guide you every step of the way.<\/p>\r\n

\"Jessica<\/figure>\r\n
\"Allyson<\/figure>\r\n

Allyson McCormick, Kinesiology<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Northborough, MA<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I knew UConn was the place for me on UConn Bound Day. I first toured UConn in 2020 when the university was shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With no students on campus, it was hard to picture what campus life would really feel like; however, my Bound Day landed on the day of HuskyTHON and seeing the UConn community come together, I realized the people here are what make UConn truly special. From that experience, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this amazing university for the next four years.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>During my sophomore year […] I volunteered for an exercise class for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, which I have continued throughout my time at UConn. This experience allowed me the opportunity to work one on one with participants and learn more about the connection between movement and delaying disease progression. I decided to switch my major to Exercise Science to better understand recovery processes and learn how to best support my patients in the future.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>Get involved in some sort of community service. UConn has so many service opportunities that really get you involved in the larger community and connect with other huskies. UConn is a large school with endless opportunities, so there is something for everyone. Whether it is volunteering at a school, a senior center, an animal shelter, or anything else you can think of, get involved in the community and make connections!<\/p>\r\n

\"Portrait<\/figure>\r\n

Garrett McHeard, Kinesiology<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Amsterdam, NY<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I chose UConn because it housed the best exercise science program in close proximity to my hometown. I also was offered the opportunity to continue to compete in track and field during my time at UConn.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>My major is exercise science; I was drawn to this major because I have always been passionate about the human body and how it adapts to exercise. As a part of my studies, I have learned that I want to use this passion to help others as a physical therapist.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>I would advise incoming students not to be afraid to ask for help. Your advisors and professors are here to help you have the best experience possible.<\/p>\r\n

Jacob Niemczyk, Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Rockville, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I chose UConn CAHNR because I have always had a love for animals and agriculture, and UConn was only 25 minutes away from home. Knowing I would have the opportunity to get an amazing education in agriculture while also being able to be at a big school with great sports programs and events so close to home, it was an easy decision.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>My major is Agriculture and Natural Resources, with a minor in Animal Science. I decided on that major in high school when a student teacher that I had at the time told me that this was his major and how he was very happy with the wide range of classes that he was able to take. My main area of interest is animals, so I also picked up a minor in Animal Science, but my major allowed me to take multiple Plant Science, Natural Resources, and ARE classes in CAHNR as well.<\/p>\r\n

Plans for after graduation? <\/strong>After I stay around a little after graduation to help all of the mares foal out at the horse barn this spring, I plan to stay in the field of agriculture, especially working with animals in some capacity.<\/p>\r\n

\"Jacob<\/figure>\r\n

Raini Rodriguez, Agricultural and Resource Economics<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Norwalk, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I chose UConn because of its strong sense of community and school spirit. From my first campus visit, I felt at home, and everyone seemed like they genuinely loved being here, and I knew I would too. UConn’s diversity made me feel comfortable being myself from day one. I chose CAHNR specifically because it’s truly the place to be for environmental majors. I’ve taken classes across several departments in the college, and I’ve enjoyed all of them and learned a lot that helped me with my primary coursework.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>My major is Environmental and Natural Resource Economics. I was first drawn to it because of my interest in the environment and sustainability, especially after long thoughts about mass waste, overconsumption, and how capitalism impacts the environment. I switched my major four times during my first year at UConn, but after taking one class in the ARE department, I knew I’d found the right fit.<\/p>\r\n

Plans for after graduation? <\/strong>I will be pursuing a master’s in Applied & Resource Economics through ARE’s 4+1 program. After that, I hope to get into the energy\/ sustainability industry.<\/p>\r\n

\"A<\/figure>\r\n
\"Kiley<\/figure>\r\n

Kiley Roy, Pathobiology and Veterinary Science<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown:\u00a0<\/strong>Bristol, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>Growing up in Connecticut, I never really wanted to go to UConn. I wanted to explore, to see the country beyond the state I had spent my entire life in. But when I was applying for colleges, I kept coming back to UConn. They had one of the biology majors in the country, and I decided to give it a chance, and I can’t be more glad that I did.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>Originally, I was a biology major, but I quickly realized it was too general for me. I knew I would never be able to decide what I wanted to do with my life after undergrad if I stuck with the major, so I decided I needed a change and began looking for alternatives. That’s when I came across the pathobiology major. It quickly drew me in by offering the opportunity to work with different types of pathogens in a lab environment early in undergrad, so I made the switch, and I haven’t been happier.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>You can’t force yourself to like what you’re doing. If you’re not happy now doing what you’re doing now, you probably won’t be ten years down the line. So pick a major that makes you happy, something that you genuinely enjoy. College really is what you make of it, so why not make it something that you enjoy?<\/p>\r\n

\"Elizabeth<\/figure>\r\n

Elizabeth Tarduogno, Nutritional Sciences<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>New City, New York<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I chose UConn because my older sister was a sophomore here when I was exploring colleges. After visiting a few times, it felt like home very quickly. The campus was beautiful and expansive, and the opportunities felt endless. Although I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue when I entered college, I felt secure in choosing UConn because I knew there was such a wide range of majors, clubs, organizations and experiences-something for everyone.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I was initially drawn to Nutritional Sciences because of my love for cooking, health, and physical fitness. I grew up cooking with my dad and as I got older, I became more intentional with what exactly I was putting into my body. This curiosity led me to learn more about nutrition not only for myself, but also because of the significance it holds in our society today. Ultimately, I want to be able to help people improve their health and quality of life, which goes hand in hand with my desire to work in physical therapy.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>Take advantage of all the opportunities that UConn has to offer! Make use of your time here. You’re coming into an environment where there are endless people to meet. Talk to your professors, knock on your neighbor’s door, join a club you’re hesitant about joining. The relationships you make here can last you a lifetime! Don’t just do the bare minimum- go out of your comfort zone and take every opportunity this school has to offer.<\/p>\r\n

Andy Zhang, Natural Resources and the Environment<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Sandy Hook, CT<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>During the pandemic, I admittedly did not spend much time reflecting on the person I wanted to become or the impact I wanted to make on the world, but I knew I wanted to chase something that I was genuinely passionate about. I chose UConn because it offered both the academic breadth to explore different fields and disciplines as well as the community that would allow me to chase that soon-to-be defined goal. It also didn’t hurt that my high school girlfriend (another CAHNR student) had committed to UConn as well!<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>I chose environmental sciences as my major because of the interdisciplinary lens that it offers for understanding society’s most pressing issues. We live in an increasingly complex and globalized world that requires individuals who are able to approach problems not solely through economic or public health lenses, but also through environmental, sociological, and anthropological ones. Studying environmental sciences has given me the breadth to engage with a wide range of disciplines, and my extracurricular experiences have allowed me to translate those concepts into lived practice.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>Pursue your passion! My story on paper is very different than my story in reality. I didn’t come into college with the idea of working as a sustainability intern, or founding a club, or becoming Student Body President. I didn’t even come into college with the idea of joining student government, but all of these things happened because I said yes to the things that I truly cared about and enjoyed doing. Life is too short to spend doing things you don’t love.<\/p>\r\n

\"Portrait<\/figure>\r\n

Yidan Zhang, Nutritional Sciences<\/h2>\r\n

Hometown: <\/strong>Luoyang, China<\/p>\r\n

Why<\/strong> UConn? <\/strong>I joined UConn and CAHNR because I believe that groundbreaking research starts with exceptional mentorship. I followed a specific vision and a trusted advisor whose reputation in the field inspired me to pivot from a more traditional path. Finding a community that valued my focus on sustainable seaweed technologies made CAHNR the perfect home for my doctoral journey.<\/p>\r\n

Why your major? <\/strong>My major is Nutritional Sciences. It was a desire to explore how naturally derived materials can improve food quality. I chose to pursue my PhD at UConn’s CAHNR specifically to collaborate with my advisor, whose reputation and expertise I have long respected. I knew that building my research on a foundation of trust and shared vision would be the ultimate catalyst for my work, and that partnership has been instrumental in my journey from researcher to entrepreneur.<\/p>\r\n

Advice for incoming students? <\/strong>Never hesitate to ask for help or seek guidance. The UConn community is incredibly supportive, but the first step starts with you: reach out to people, listen to their stories, and learn from their advice. By actively engaging with the mentors around you, you will not only find your passion but also the community that will help you achieve it.<\/p>\r\n

\"Yidan<\/figure>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Students from across CAHNR share memories from their time at UConn and their plans for the future<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":127,"featured_media":212963,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_crdt_document":"","wds_primary_category":0,"wds_primary_series":0,"wds_primary_attribution":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2297,2296,147,2298,2224,2304,2299,2300,2301,2302,2303,2076,2712,2225,2306],"tags":[],"magazine-issues":[],"coauthors":[2140],"class_list":["post-243540","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-agricultural-resource-economics","category-allied-health-sciences","category-alumni","category-animal-science","category-cahnr","category-extension","category-kinesiology","category-natural-resources-environment","category-nutritional-sciences","category-pathobiology-veterinary-science","category-plant-science-landscape-architecture","category-research","category-student-success","category-uconn-storrs","category-uconn-voices"],"pp_statuses_selecting_workflow":false,"pp_workflow_action":"current","pp_status_selection":"publish","acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-05-12 11:41:24","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/posts\/243540","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/users\/127"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=243540"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/posts\/243540\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":245299,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/posts\/243540\/revisions\/245299"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/media\/212963"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=243540"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=243540"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=243540"},{"taxonomy":"magazine-issue","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/magazine-issues?post=243540"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/today.uconn.edu\/wp-rest\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=243540"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}