From academics to real-world impact, explore stories from our community that highlight the people and experiences making Occidental College a place of opportunity, discovery, and success.
Tor Myhren ’94 Alumni English Apple vice president of marketing communications Tor Myhren thinks he has “the best job in the world.”
Ken Lowney ’87 Alumni Philosophy Ken Lowney is president of Oakland-based Lowney Architecture. His approach is rooted in his belief that architecture is more than simply buildings, and—if thoughtfully and responsibly done—it can positively contribute to society and advance a community.
Morgan Winston ’14 Alumni Marine Biology Morgan Winston built on her undergraduate experience working with the Vantuna Research Group to pursue a master’s in marine biology and a career in coral reef preservation. She even has a marine species named after her.
Sophia Brown Student Theater & Performance Studies Public Health A seasoned performer, Sophia Brown has nurtured a musical career as a singer, guitarist and flutist. But her experiences at Oxy have helped ignite a twin passion for theater.
Lindy West ’04 Alumni English Lindy West is executive producer of the Hulu TV series "Shrill," which is based on her bestselling memoir. She speaks out with her pointed and frequently funny observations on feminism, social justice and self-image.
Yasmin Vossoughian ’00 Alumni History Mother of two and yoga enthusiast Yasmin Vossoughian brings her passion for storytelling to the MSNBC anchor desk.
Wafa Abedin Student Diplomacy & World Affairs Diving into opportunities on campus since her first year at Oxy is giving Wafa Abedin a new perspective on how the College runs, as well as a chance to be a voice in steering its future.
Dire Ezeh Student Diplomacy & World Affairs Being raised in Kenya, coupled with exposure to international relations from an early age, made DWA an appealing course of study for Dire Ezeh. “Exposure to the diverse population living within Nairobi cultivated my interest in the topic; I continue to learn more and more about the world’s troubled past and present.”
Audrey Shawley Student Biochemistry As a biochemistry major, Audrey Shawley took advantage of global opportunities, including a summer conducting graduate-level research in Thailand.
Jade Thurnham Student Biology As a biology major, Jade has enjoyed classes such as Biodiversity in Marine Ecosystems and Flora of Southern California, but the variety afforded by a liberal arts education is not lost on her.
Jordan Walker Student Economics Jordan Walker’s personal connection to the campus community was strengthened during his first year at Oxy, through rigorous academic courses and an array of engaging extracurricular activities.
Ian Van Dusen Student Geology Geology major Ian Van Dusen is always seeking hands-on opportunities to learn and do research. And to him, the traditional classroom only takes you so far.
