By Communications staff, College of Arts and Sciences
Henry Olsen has been chosen as the Spring 2026 Gonfalon Bearer representing the College of Arts and Sciences during this year’s Commencement ceremonies. Olsen is a WSU Regents Scholar and Auvil Scholars Research Fellow, and will be graduating with dual bachelor’s degrees in biology and psychology.
Originally from Zillah, WA, Olsen will soon be moving to Rochester, MN, for medical school at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, where he will be pursuing a career in pediatric surgery.
“Henry is one of the kindest, hardest-working, most positive people I’ve ever known and we are proud that he will represent CAS as the gonfalon bearer,” said Arlene Parkey, advisor of the CAS Student Ambassadors.
During his education at WSU, Olsen served for four years with the CAS Student Ambassadors, including as president over the past year. He worked as both a certified nursing assistant in the Gritman Medical-Surgical Unit and as a medical scribe and assistant in Gritman General Surgery. Olsen also worked as a neonatal snuggle buddy in a neonatal intensive care unit in Yakima while also gaining valuable research experience on the Pullman campus.
“I’ve been involved in research with Dr. Gary Wayman’s lab, but I’ve also had great teachers and mentors,” said Olsen. “Dr. Cliff Berkman, Dr. Kristin Cutler, Dr. Raymond Evans, Dr. Samantha Swindell, they’ve all had a huge influence on me.”
One of Olsen’s favorite campus memories was playing in a blues combo band during his freshman and sophomore years at WSU. “We got the opportunity to record an album in the Kimbrough Recording Studio at the School of Music, so I did that with my brother and five of my closest friends, which was such an incredible experience,” said Olsen.
As he gets ready to graduate, Olsen has some final advice for current students. “There are so many things that I’ve been involved in just because I said yes and I put myself out there,” said Olsen. “For current students, I would tell them to not close any doors before you see what’s behind them. Explore options and be willing to try new things.” Congratulations again to Henry Olsen, the Spring 2026 CAS Gonfalon Bearer, and all graduating Cougars!