With all the academic, work, and social commitments during college, it can be difficult to find time to serve others outside of those spheres. One of our senior Biology students found a way and is thankful he did! Graduating senior Biology student, Kevin Klee, is the recipient of the 2014 Becky Houck Award which recognizes outstanding teaching assistance, mentoring, and service by a Biology major.
When asked about this honor, he replied, “I felt very fortunate to have received it. In the last year and a half I have really tried to put forth the effort to spend some of my time giving back to the Portland community and my school community.”
During that time, he held a few volunteer positions in the Portland community including tutoring elementary school kids in math and science as well as participating in the Chemopal program (which is similar to Big Brothers, Big Sisters) through the Children’s Cancer Association. In the school community, he was a teaching assistant and tutor for physiology classes.
How does he feel about all these experiences? “All of these experiences collectively enriched my last year here at UP. As graduation approaches I definitely have mixed emotions, but I am ready to move onto the next phase of my life.”
In the fall, Kevin will be beginning medical school either at Creighton University or Oregon Health and Sciences University. After he completes medical school and residency, he hopes to settle down in the Pacific Northwest and start a family.
Thank you, Kevin, for all you have done for UP and for Portland!