MSU STEM-FEE Scholars
STEM-FEE Graduates
Simcha (Simi) Rodgers
Horticulture | Former Cohort 1 Student
Simi Rodgers chose to study Sustainable and Organic Horticulture at MSU, because she thinks it is important for people to understand where their food comes from and how to grow their own food. While attending MSU, Simi participated in the Latino Student mentoring program and worked at multiple greenhouses and flower shops. She will be attending Wayne State University to earn a Master’s degree in English. Simi aspires to teach both English and Horticulture to high school or college students. She would like to combine her love of the arts and sciences by using her writing skills to inform people about the significance of their food choices and how they can have a positive impact on the planet.
Matt Uebbing
Crop and Soil Sciences | Former Cohort 1 Student
Matt is from Hudsonville, Michigan and he graduated in May of 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Crop and Soil Sciences. He chose to study CSS because he wants to be in a position where he can help farmers understand the science involved in crop production and how that applies to their farm, ultimately trying to help improve the profitability and the sustainability of their operation. He will be starting graduate school at Michigan State in the fall pursuing a master’s in Plant Pathology.
Jessica Diaz
Fisheries and Wildlife | Former Cohort 3 Student
I chose to major in Fisheries & Wildlife because of the interdisciplinary nature of the program at MSU that combines the fields of biology, natural resources, environmental policy, and more. The FW program also emphasizes experiential learning through labs, independent research, and study abroad programs – all of which I have been fortunate to participate in! My overall career goals are to work at the intersection of urban ecosystems, fisheries management, and community science. In the future, I want to support community-based research and advocacy efforts to restore damaged ecosystems and correct environmental injustices.
Hunter Likavec
Animal Science
My name is Hunter Likavec and I am an Animal Science student. I chose this degree due to the diverse amount of options I am given once I receive my degree. At MSU I am involved in Block and Bridle and I am also a part of the Polo team on the PJV level. I will be graduating in May 2021 with my degree and plan on moving to Oklahoma to pursue my career in the ag industry in some way. STEM-FEE has allowed me to focus more on my schooling so that I can financially afford school and also has helped me travel to my internship in Oklahoma summer 2020 and help me out in gas money and tuition towards my internship credits which helps immensely. I am forever grateful for this program and has allowed me to enjoy my college career as much as I can.
Righteous Tipton
Horticulture Science | Former Cohort 1 Student
Righteous Tipton is a Horticultural major who studied Organic Horticulture and graduated with a Horticultural Science degree. After some time away from school Righteous chose to complete their Bachelor of Science degree. The main component that pushed them to make this life transition was the funding from MSU STEM-FEE. Righteous grew up in Southeast Michigan regularly helping their grandparents in a small backyard garden. They have fond memories of picking blackberries, pruning grapes, and helping water roses as a child. While going to school they worked at the Student Organic Farm before going to class. After graduation they volunteered at local farms in the Detroit area. In the winter of 2021 Righteous landed their first job outside of school as a hydroponic technician. While working Righteous volunteers and does community organizing to abolish policing and build safe communities in the Detroit area.
Kenneth Mathews
Horticulture | Former Cohort 2 Student
Choosing Horticulture as my major has been the best decision I’ve made in my undergraduate career. Having worked on a farm I can truly say the courses in the Horticulture program have definitely provided me the knowledge and skills required to excell in vegetable or ornamental production. Therefore, with the skills acquired I will pursue a careeer in Urban Farming to provide local access to organic produce in food deserts. However, none of this would be possible if not for the STEM-FEE scholarship and Provost match that have provided the funds for me to continue my studies.
Emma Ashley-Grose
Forestry | Former Cohort 1 Student
I grew up on Green Eagle Farm and I love contributing to my community through providing healthy foods. From an early age I got my education digging in the dirt and I want to continue to learn and share all things nature. This scholarship has aided in my pursuit of a Forestry major while opening doors to growing my MSU community. The scholarship facilitators go above and beyond to provide support and opportunities for each recipient. I am grateful!
Chloe Grabb
Horticulture | Former Cohort 1 Student
My name is ChloeGrabb and I study Horticulture here at MSU. Choosing to study horticulture was the best decision that I’ve ever made. I have enjoyed each and every one of my classes in the program, and it’s incredible how much I’ve already learned. I wake up every morning excited to learn about and work with plants. I am the secretary of the Student Horticulture Association, as well as an undergraduate learning assistant for HRT 203 and NSC 192. I don’t know what I want to do with my degree just yet, but I know that I will be happy with whatever path I choose.
Brianna Wiemer
Crop and Soil Sciences
