Creighton University College of Arts and Sciences

Our camera roll is practically alive with the beautiful landscapes and wonderful people in this city we love. 💙

What do you do when there isn't one clear answer?

For Shannon Van Ginkel, a senior double majoring in psychology and biology, that question became real while conducting research in Fr. Ekpenyong's Translational Biomedical Physics Lab. Through her work studying the effects of radioimmunotherapy on neuroblastoma, she discovered that research often requires making thoughtful decisions without a clear roadmap. "Planning experiments has helped me to learn how to make decisions when there is no clear right answer by approaching it with flexibility and curiosity."

Research at Creighton has shown Shannon that uncertainty is often where the most meaningful learning happens. As she prepares for medical school, she's carrying forward the critical thinking, adaptability and confidence she's developed through hands-on research.

"My time at Creighton has helped me to be more comfortable navigating uncertainty because of the support of those around me in a community that encourages growth and learning."

The places they’ll remember. The people who were there for it all. Our graduates captured some final moments on campus this month. Take one final look back with us as graduation season comes to an end. 🎓💙

📸: (photo 1); (photos 2 & 3); (photo 4); (photo 5); .withacamera (photos 7 & 9)

“Meaningful education is rooted in relationships, reflection, and justice.”

As a new graduate from Creighton's Magis Catholic Teacher Corps with a Master of Science in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Teacher Leadership, Ella Massmann is carrying more than a degree into her next chapter. She’s carrying a commitment to her students, her community and a mindset grounded in purpose.

While balancing graduate school, teaching, coaching basketball and life beyond the classroom, Ella discovered the power of mentorship, reflection and showing up for others. Her capstone project, “The Magis Mindset,” became both a reflection on her journey and a vision for the educator she hopes to be.

After graduation, Ella decided to continue her work at St. Anthony High School in Milwaukee, where she will continue serving as the math department chair and is helping launch new honors pathways for students.

We’re proud to celebrate Ella and all our graduates whose work is already transforming classrooms and communities.

From research projects to packed basketball games, Izzie Nielsen made the most of her time at Creighton as a computer science and data science double major. Now, she’s ready to take flight as a new member of the Creighton University Alumni.

After graduation, she’ll join Fiserv in the Technology Analyst Program, where she’s excited to apply the skills she built at Creighton to real-world challenges while continuing to learn from industry professionals. She says Creighton prepared her not only with strong technical experience through research and projects, but also with the communication and collaboration skills that will support her career.

Congratulations to Izzie and the Class of 2026!

“Being a first-gen student at Creighton University has been both challenging and rewarding.”

For Emma Atou, a junior exercise science major on the pre-dentistry track, there were moments of uncertainty and feeling behind or unsure. But those moments became opportunities for growth: asking questions, seeking support and building confidence.

One of the most meaningful parts of Emma's experience has been connecting with mentors and faculty who genuinely care. Having people who take the time to guide and check in has made a lasting impact.

“It feels like validation of the hard work and challenges that come with being first-gen,” Emma shares. “It motivates me to keep going and support others on a similar path.”

That kind of experience is at the heart of Creighton’s recognition as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion.

Learn more: https://www.creighton.edu/news/creighton-recognized-national-leader-first-gen-student-success

Logan Yogi, a history and economics major with minors in environmental policy and legal studies, is ready to take flight as a new Creighton University Alumni.

After graduation, he’ll head to Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher through the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program. As he begins this next chapter, he’s most looking forward to “finding new people to be inspired by.”

“Creighton gave me a moral purpose: to lead from among, to stay curious, and to devote myself to my community. The faculty, staff and my fellow students at Creighton, taught me what it means to cherish and be cherished—a spirit I plan to carry with me wherever I go.”

Congratulations to Logan and the Class of 2026!

Congratulations to Joel Destino, PhD, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, for being named the 2026 recipient of the Council on Undergraduate Research's Silvia Ronco Innovative Mentor Award.

The award recognizes early-career faculty members in the chemical sciences whose mentorship helps undergraduate researchers thrive. Through hands-on research opportunities and meaningful faculty guidance, Destino continues to help students grow as scientists and scholars.

Congratulations on this well-deserved honor, Dr. Destino!

Read the press release here: https://www.cur.org/cur-names-creightons-destino-as-silvia-ronco-innovative-mentor-2026-awardee/