Two CAS students chosen for third cohort of OSU Beckman Scholars
Thursday, May 29, 2025
Media Contact: Elizabeth Gosney | CAS Marketing and Communications Manager | 405-744-7497 | egosney@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University College of Arts and Sciences students Jacob Long and Crissy Villasmil-Velasco have been named Beckman Scholars for the 2025-26 school year.
The Beckman Scholars Program, directed by Drs. Rachael Eaton and Erika Lutter, will begin its third year this summer. Since 2023, two scholars have been selected each year to receive research mentorship, leadership training and a $21,000 award funded by the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jacob and Crissy into the OSU Beckman Scholars program," said Eaton, CAS program director for research engagement. "They are committed to scientific advancement and represent the importance of curiosity and enthusiasm for research programs.”
Long, a chemistry major from Fairland, Oklahoma, will be mentored by Dr. Yolanda Vasquez, an associate professor of chemistry. For 15 months, Long will investigate whether iron sulfide nanoparticles can serve as effective general catalysts to form imine-containing compounds.
“Being selected for the program is an honor,” Long said. “It has been the guiding hand that finally allowed me to get involved with scientific research.”
Villasmil-Velasco, who is a microbiology and molecular genetics major on the pre-medical track with a minor in neuroscience, will be working with Lutter on a project revolving around investigating the virulence mechanisms of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogen.
“I am truly honored to have been selected for the Beckman Scholars Program, and I could not be more thrilled to learn everything I can about the world of research and pathogens,” said Villasmil-Velasco, who attended school in Jenks, Oklahoma. “Through this program, I am especially excited to make valuable memories and connections that will help to project me forward in my path towards an MD.”
In its first year, the Beckman Scholars Program sponsored two students studying physics and microbiology. It recently wrapped up it second year with students studying zoology and physiology.
“We are so pleased to begin our third year of the OSU Beckman Scholars program," Eaton said. "Our first four scholars have made incredible achievements, inspired their peers and graduated with accolades. We are incredibly proud to host a Beckman Scholars program at OSU and I am excited to see how our next cohort will further develop this impactful program.”
To learn more about the Beckman Scholars Program at OSU, visit the program’s website.
Story By: Kayleen Sugianto, student intern | Dr. Rachael Eaton, CAS Research | rachael.eaton@okstate.edu