Courtesy: Oregon Institute of Technology
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — Seventeen students from Oregon Tech embarked on a transformative study abroad program in the Netherlands, focusing on urban sustainability and responsible future development.
The interdisciplinary program catered to 13 different majors including those in engineering, health sciences and cybersecurity. The program was designed by Professors Mark and Hallie Neupert in collaboration with several universities and Education First Study Abroad. The students explored sustainable urban planning and design, leveraging the Netherlands’ emphasis on public transportation and circular societies.
Courtesy: Oregon Institute of Technology
“From integrated transit and human-scaled city design to strategies for sustainable living, students observed firsthand how these principles shape places in which people live, work, and play,” said Mark Neupert, Professor of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Students participated in workshops and events, including the International Student Summit at the University of Twente. Hallie Neupert, Professor of Management, said the summit challenged students to consider diverse perspectives in designing future societies.
The program included visits to Amsterdam, Enschede, Rotterdam and Leiden, where students learned about sustainable practices and historical preservation. Students like Nuclear Medicine major Jenna Mercurio and Cybersecurity sophomore Addison Price found practical applications for their future careers.
Courtesy: Oregon Institute of Technology
The list of students who participated and their majors include:
Zac Adragna – Geomatics
Sam Bricker – Mechanical Engineering
Zane Cogliser – Cybersecurity
Walter Corthell – Renewable Energy Engineering
Jess Crafton – Mechanical Engineering
Tim Fincher – Communication Studies
Walter Hartley – Biology-Health Sciences
Bryson Ladd – Mechanical Engineering
Audrey Langdon – Pre-Nursing
Raymond Loby – Mechanical Engineering
Jenna Mercurio – Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Technology
Cole O’Halloran – Cybersecurity
Jillian Placko – Medical Imaging
Addison Price – Cybersecurity
Armelle Setters – Respiratory Care
Delanie Stiffler – Health Care Management and Marketing
Jordan Thielke – Electrical Engineering
Funding for the trip was supported by various Oregon Tech entities and community contributions, making the experience more accessible for students and their families. Hallie Neupert expressed gratitude for the community’s support, highlighting the trip’s importance for student learning.
The Neuperts plan to expand the program for future student experiences.
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