Kelly Patterson

Portrait of Andrew Jimenez

2023 Award: Environmental Studies Exemplary Senior Award
Majors: Environmental Studies, Organizational Leadership
Minors: Leadership Studies, Sustainable Business
Hometown: Carnation, Washington
Extracurricular activities: I love to be outside hiking, kayaking, practicing photography, or relaxing in my hammock with a good book. I also enjoy playing soccer, trying out new Spokane spots with my friends, and traveling when I can.

More about Kelly

Future plans:

In the near future, I'm headed off to sunny Camp Gallagher to spend the summer encouraging kids to embrace adventure and find a love for the outdoors. Beyond that, I'm planning to earn my Master's in Organizational Leadership and find a career that combines my passions for environmentalism and leadership.

How has your major contributed to your professional or personal development?

I chose Environmental Studies as a freshman because of my love for the outdoors and the urgent responsibility I feel to revive and protect our planet. Throughout my four years, I encountered many courses that strengthened my passion for the environment and motivate me to make a positive change.

What has been your proudest or most significant accomplishment during your Gonzaga career?

My proudest accomplishment is making it to (almost) the end of college and feeling 100% confident that I made the right choice with Gonzaga. Despite the interruption of a global pandemic, I formed lasting relationships, gained indispensable knowledge, and am genuinely proud of the person I have become.