Grays Harbor College Recognizes 18 Graduates with 4.0 GPA

Posted on: Jun, 23, 2025

Each year, Grays Harbor College recognizes the students who graduate with the top GPA in the class. In the class of 2025, 19 students are graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. This year’s 4.0 graduates are Kevin DeGraw, Ariana Arriaga Diaz, Kailei Dillman, Angie Soria Escobar, Blayne Fuller, Carmella Gumaelius, Hazel Jones, Eva Jump, Analiisa Laine, Alanna Miles, Kohan Morrison, Sophie Olive, Justin Pop, Anica Reimer, Madeline Schaeffer, Samantha Schweppe, Lorelei Smaciarz, Willobelle Valentine, and one student who opted not to be recognized.

Kevin DeGraw

Kevin DeGraw is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Applied Science – Forestry Technician. Kevin’s favorite class at GHC was a three-part ecology series taught by Todd Bates. In addition to his studies, Kevin served as the Chair of the Grays Harbor Student Chapter of the Society of American Foresters. Kevin was named Outstanding Natural Resources Student at the 2025 Student Awards and Recognition Ceremony.

After graduating with his AAS degree, Kevin plans to continue his education in GHC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Forest Resource Management program. When asked if there was anyone he’d like to recognize for their support, Kevin said, “Thank you to Todd and Pat for their patience and enthusiasm while answering my questions; I’m grateful for the financial support of scholarships and grants and the votes of confidence they represent; and thank you to my mom and step-dad for their continued support and for showing up.”

Kevin’s advice for future students is: “It’s never too late to change your life in pursuit of the future you want.”

Ariana Arriaga Diaz

Ariana Arriaga Diaz is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Ariana’s favorite class at GHC was English. As a Running Start student, Ariana was able to participate in extracurriculars at her high school, where she took classes like Link Crew and Yearbook and also participated in clubs like the Hispanic Latino Club, National Honors Society, and Key Club.

After graduating with her AA-DTA, Ariana plans to continue studying at GHC and get a degree in Business. Ultimately, she would like to pursue a career in finance, like an accountant, bookkeeper, or a similar role. Ariana said she would like to thank her family and friends for encouraging, supporting, and helping her through her journey in the Running Start program.

When asked what advice she had for future students, Ariana said, “The biggest advice I could give to future students is to manage your time well. Make sure you balance school life and your regular life correctly. Don't leave certain things off to the side for later because then you'll stress about it. Another piece of advice is to not let your regrets get to you and bring you down. Those are in the past, we can only look ahead to the future! Achieve what you want to achieve, be happy with your decisions!”

Kailei Dillman

Kailei Dillman is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement with an emphasis on English. Kailei’s favorite classes at GHC were Spanish 121-123. After graduating with her associate’s degree, Kailei plans to work towards a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and then pursue a Master’s in Library and Information Science.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Kailei said, “I want to recognize and thank my parents and my brother. They have been huge supports during my time at GHC. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve or afford my education without their help.”

Kailei’s advice for future students is, “Don’t let your aspirations stop you from taking care of yourself. It’s easy to lose track of your mental health, which can affect both you and the people around you, so try to take time for yourself.”

Angie Soria Escobar

Angie Soria Escobar is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite class at GHC was Human Sexuality taught by Tiffany Smith. At the 2025 Student Awards and Recognition Ceremony, Angie was recognized as Psychology Student of the Year!

“I would like to thank all my friends and professors at GHC,” Angie said. “Special thanks to Tiffany Smith, she is an amazing Psychology professor and helped me further realize I wanted to pursue psychology. Finally, I would like to thank my parents who sacrifice so much for me every single day. I promise your hard work won’t be in vain because I have big plans for the future.”

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Angie is transferring to the University of Washington to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She aspires to become a psychologist and perhaps open her own private practice one day. Angie elaborated on her future goals by saying, “Clinical psychology allows me to help people by making them feel seen, heard, and understood. I would get the opportunity to have patients and be able to help them overcome psychological challenges, and work towards bettering their quality of life. I am excited about what’s to come, and I am ready for the upcoming challenges and growth!”

When asked what advice she has for future students, Angie said, “My advice for future students is that they should reach out for help if they need it and prioritize their mental health, because burnout is a big concern. On a lighter note, if any Running Start students are reading this, make sure to have fun, talk to people, join clubs, and enjoy these couple of years at GHC. It goes by quickly, and it is such a lovely experience.”

Blayne Fuller

Blayne Fuller is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Science – Transfer Track 2. His favorite classes at GHC were Physics for Scientists & Engineers 1-3. Reflecting on his time at GHC, Blayne said, “Coming in as a first-generation college student was nerve-wracking, but my time at GHC has convinced me that with effort – and a little bit of caffeine – investing in yourself is never a mistake.”

After graduating with his AS-T, Blayne plans to transfer to Washington State University to pursue electrical engineering, with plans to specialize in Biomedical MEMS.

When asked if there was anyone he would like to recognize for their support, Blayne said, “Special thanks to my family, Sean, Jaime, Kuester, Hillier, Nathan, and all of my STEM peers who helped me out along the way.”

Blayne’s advice for future students is, “If you’re going to procrastinate, have a plan!”

Carmella Gumaelius

Carmella Gumaelius is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite classes at GHC were History of Art: Japan, taught by Nathan Barnes, and Survey of Biology taught by Anita Plagge.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Carmella plans to transfer to the Evergreen State College where she hopes to obtain a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Carmella said, “I would like to thank Lori Christmas, Professor Anita Plagge, Professor Barnes, and everyone who works at the library.”

Carmella’s advice to future students is, “Try as many different classes as possible.”

Hazel Jones

Hazel Jones is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite classes at GHC were Political Science taught by Jenel Cope and General Biology taught by Tim Plagge.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Hazel plans to attend the University of Idaho where she will study Animal Science with a pre-vet focus. In the future, Hazel hopes to work in a veterinary clinic or put her education and skills to use in a farming setting.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Hazel said, “Thank you to Jenel Cope, Jaime Reino, and Timothy Plagge for teaching your subjects honestly and passionately. I learned great information and many life lessons from your classes.” As a Running Start graduate, Hazel also wanted to recognize Lori Christmas for her “dedicated compassion and energy to help each Running Start student.”

Hazel’s advice for future students is, “Do your work as early as possible, ask lots of questions of your professor, especially if you don’t understand, and take classes that you are interested in and can use throughout your life.”

Eva Jump

Eva Jump is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite classes at GHC were Calculus 1, 2, and 3 taught by Jaime Reino.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Eva plans to transfer to the University of Utah to pursue a degree in Mathematics. Eva shared, “my long-term goal is to earn a Ph.D. in Math and build a career that combines both teaching and research.”

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Eva said, “I would like to thank Lori Christmas for all her support during my time in Running Start. I’m also very grateful to Jaime Reino and Tom Kuester for their support in my classes and for helping me succeed.”

Eva’s advice for future students is, “Stay organized and take your time to really understand the material.”

Analiisa Laine

Analiisa Laine is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Applied Science – Business Technology. Her favorite class at GHC was English Composition 1. In reflecting on her time as a GHC student, Analiisa said, “My experience at GHC has been nothing but positive. I am so grateful for my time and experience here and look forward to seeing where the Lord will take me and my fellow graduates in the coming years.”

After graduating with her AAS degree, Analiisa plans to attend a Bible school in Austria called Tauernhof with a dear friend. “I am greatly looking forward to this endeavor, and once returned, I will further consider my education and career options.”

Analiisa shared that she would like to specifically thank Lori Christmas, Melanie Israel, and Kellyn Pakenen for their encouragement, guidance, and support. “I would not be where I am now without these wonderful people or the encouragement and support of my parents, family, and friends.”

Analiisa’s advice for future students is, “Always ask for help when you need it. I know that this can be hard and somewhat unnerving, but everyone at GHC genuinely wants you to succeed and is more than willing to assist and guide you in any way that they can.”

Alanna Miles

Alanna Miles is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Degree. Her favorite class at GHC was Beginner Painting, but she said that she enjoyed all of the art classes she took.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Alanna plans to transfer to Western Washington University to work towards a Bachelor of Fine Arts. When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Alanna said, “I would like to thank Lori Christmas for helping me get started at GHC through Running Start. I would like to thank my parents for their support as I attend college.”

Alanna’s advice for future students is, “Seek help when you need it, professors are happy to help.”

Kohan Morrison

Kohan Morrison is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement.

Sophie Olive

Sophie Olive is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Sophie’s favorite class at GHC was Beginning Drawing taught by Nathan Barnes. As a Running Start student, Sophie was able to participate in extracurricular activities at her high school (Ocosta High School), including Volleyball, Softball, and Knowledge Bowl.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Sophie plans to attend the University of Washington to pursue a degree in Law, Societies, and Justice. Then, she plans to attend law school to become an attorney.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Sophie said she would like to thank her mother and grandparents, “for always being there for me and supporting me when I needed it.” Sophie added, “without them, I could not have accomplished as much, and for that, I am grateful.”

Sophie’s advice for future students is, “Work hard, challenge yourself, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. When you allow yourself to feel uncomfortable, you will see the greatest growth and success.”

Justin Pop

Justin Pop is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Business – Direct Transfer Agreement. His favorite class at GHC was Business Calculus.

After graduating with his associate’s degree, Justin plans to get a bachelor’s degree in Accounting at the University of Washington. When asked if there was anyone he would like to recognize for their support, Justin said, “I would like to thank all my professors and colleagues. They were a big part of my drive to succeed as a student.”

Justin’s advice for future students is, “Study something you are really interested in. It is way easier to stay motivated when you actually care about the subject.”

Anica Reimer

Anica Reimer is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite class at GHC was General Chemistry. As a Running Start student, Anica was able to participate in her high school’s extracurriculars, including track and field, cross country, wind ensemble, and jazz band. At GHC, Anica served as the Executive Vice President of the Associated Students of GHC.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Anica plans to attend Washington State University for two years to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology before attending dental school for four years at University of Washington or University of California, Los Angeles. Then, Anica plans to complete six years of residency to become an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Anica said she would like to thank her parents, grandparents, and friends, as well as her Chemistry professor Sean Lyons, Biology Professor Monica Baze, and Math professor Tom Kuester.

Anica’s advice for future students is, “Don’t be scared of the hard classes, they may end up being your favorite.” She added a quote, “nothing changes if nothing changes.”

Madeline Schaeffer

Madeline Schaeffer is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Science – Transfer Track 1, Biology. Her favorite class at GHC was BIO& 213 (Majors Plant Lab). While attending GHC, Madeline worked in the Tutoring Center as a Math and Science Tutor. She was awarded Outstanding Science Student at the 2025 Student Awards and Recognition Ceremony.

After graduating with her AS-T, Madeline plans to attend Harvard University to study Integrative Biology and Computational Neuroscience. When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Madeline said, “I’d like to thank my mom and dad. They have been my biggest supporters, and I am so grateful for all the encouragement and advice they have given me.”

Madeline’s advice for future students is, “Make sure to enjoy where you are right now – you will achieve your goals, just keep it up!”

Samantha Schweppe

Samantha Schweppe is graduating from GHC with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite class at GHC was Biology.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Samantha is heading to Saint Martin’s University to study Exercise Science. Then, she plans to go on to graduate school to pursue a career as a physical therapist.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Samantha said, “Thank you to Lori Christmas, she has supported all the Running Start students so well.”

Samantha’s advice for future students is, “Everyone at Grays Harbor College is there to help you. Make sure to use all your resources!”

Lorelei Smaciarz

Lorelei Smaciarz is graduating with an Associate in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite class that she took at GHC was U.S. History 2 taught by Diane Muir.

After graduating with her associate’s degree, Lorelei plans to attend Franciscan University to major in History. “I would then like to gain a master’s in Education to become a high school History teacher,” she shared.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Lorelei said, “I would like to thank my parents for all their encouragement and support.”

Lorelei’s advice to future students is, “Try your best not to procrastinate and always communicate with your professor if you need help.”

Willobelle Valentine

Willobelle Valentine is graduating from GHC with an Associates in Arts – Direct Transfer Agreement. Her favorite class at GHC was Western Civilization 1. As a Running Start student, Willobelle was able to participate in her high school’s extracurriculars, including Varsity Swim Team, Varsity Track and Field, Powerlifting, and Band. Willobelle was named Outstanding History and Political Science Student at the 2025 Student Awards and Recognition Ceremony.

After graduating from GHC with her associate’s degree, Willobelle will attend the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa to earn a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Classical Archaeology. “I then plan to earn my doctorate in Archaeology and hope to work on sites across the Mediterranean,” she shared.

When asked if there was anyone she would like to recognize for their support, Willobelle said, “I would like to thank Professor Muir for her support. Her personal knowledge and shared love of Archaeology allowed me to feel prepared and excited for my future studies. Additionally, I would like to thank my other professors at GHC who helped to push me to be the best student I could be.”

Willobelle’s advice for future students is, “Do Running Start your junior and senior year of high school! In your courses, always give every assignment your best effort, engage with your professors, and work to be as organized as possible. If you study hard and try your best, you will be successful!”