2024 Ronald Gonzalez Wildcat Spirit Awardees

Congratulations to the 2024 Ronald Gonzalez Wildcat Spirit Awardees. CBC recognizes students who go above and beyond in supporting the CBC and become an important part of the CBC community. These students are the type of people who make a genuine impact by the support they provide. This award was initiated by the CBC Advising Office in Spring 2015 in recognition of Ronald Gonzalez, who made this award possible.

Yanely Bolaños

"Being part of the UofA and the CBC Community has been an incredible journey. The support, camaraderie, and growth I've experienced during my time here have been truly transformative. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt welcomed and supported by the CBC advising team. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable as I navigated through my academic and personal endeavors. Whether it was choosing the right courses or seeking advice on career paths, they were always there to lend a helping hand.

One of the highlights of my time at U of A was being involved in student orientations and giving tours to prospective students. Sharing my passion for biochemistry and the pre-health journey with others was incredibly fulfilling. It's been a joy to be part of a community where everyone is passionate about learning and growing together. As I prepare to leave this chapter of my life behind and embark on a new adventure in Washington DC, I can't help but feel a mix of sadness and excitement. I'll miss the familiar faces and the sense of belonging that the UofA community provided, but I'm also eager to embrace new opportunities and challenges.

Thank you, U of A and CBC Community, for the memories, experiences, and friendships that I will cherish for a lifetime. You have truly shaped me into the person I am today, and I am grateful for every moment spent within your walls."

Michael Foster

"Being a member of the Chemistry and Biochemistry community at the University of Arizona has been one of the most formative experiences in my scientific career. My relationships with professors and senior researchers have provided me with mentors who have taught me what it means to be a scientist and how advanced, ethical research is conducted. The friendships I have made with my peers will remain long after we leave the University of Arizona and go on to careers or further education around the world.

Being in leadership positions both as a teaching assistant for lab courses and working with other undergraduates in research has developed my ability to teach scientific techniques and my skills in scientific communication. As I prepare to attend medical school to begin my career in medicine, I am thankful for the education I have received, the skills I have been taught, and the relationships I have made in the Chemistry and Biochemistry community at the University of Arizona."

Megan Hahn

"My name is Megan Hahn and I am a third-year student majoring in chemistry and biochemistry. I have been involved with the department in many ways during my time at UArizona. including being an ambassador, peer mentor, preceptor, and participating in departmental research. This department has provided me with amazing opportunities and resources over the years, and I love being able to give back and support my peers and department through my involvement."

Allison Mason

"As I reflect on my time at the University of Arizona, I am filled with gratitude for the relationships and experiences that have shaped my journey as a scientist. Being a part of the UA and CBC community has been a truly rewarding experience, and one for which I am extremely grateful for, ranging from my time spent as an ambassador to a preceptor for the biochemical lab techniques course. I have been inspired by the faculty and staff who strive to support their students and go above and beyond.

I am excited to use the knowledge I have gained from CBC and apply it to a career in forensics. Being a part of this community has not only equipped me with the skills and knowledge to succeed but has also instilled in me a lifelong passion for learning. Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat!"