Andrus Scholars Class of 2026

Boden Bisgard is an environmental studies major going into his last semester at Boise State University. Growing up in Iowa he developed a strong appreciation for nature both in his home state and during trips to the west. This appreciation is what led Boden to pursue a career in restoration and environmental education. In addition to classes Boden applies his passion for the outdoors in his role as VP of the Environmental Club, organizing trash cleanups and sage brush planting are just a few of his jobs. When he’s not on campus you can find Boden in the mountains, running in the foothills and skiing Bogus Basin are two of his favorite hobbies. Boden is extremely excited by the opportunity to serve the Harris Ranch Wildlife Mitigation Association through the Andrus Scholar Program.

Meghan recently graduated in May 2026 from Boise State University, where she studied Environmental Studies with a minor in Psychology. Originally from southeastern Idaho, she completed her first two years at North Idaho College before continuing her education in Boise. Having lived in multiple regions of the state, Meghan has developed a deep appreciation for Idaho’s diverse landscapes. She is interested in exploring how people interact with the natural world and how those relationships can guide more sustainable and thoughtful environmental decisions. In her free time, Meghan enjoys skiing, hiking, reading, and exploring local coffee shops. She is excited to begin working with the Idaho Conservation League and to apply her passion for environmental stewardship through this opportunity.

Calder is a third-year student pursuing an undergraduate degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Climate Studies and Geospatial Info Analysis. Calder was born in Columbus, Ohio but has lived in Idaho for 11 years and calls Twin Falls her home. Living in Boise and attending BSU has inspired her and expanded her knowledge of the environment and natural world. Calder hopes to make a positive impact wherever she goes and wants to work in conservation, with wildlife, or even environmental law one day! She is very excited to be a part of the Andrus Scholars Program and work with the Forest Service this summer!

Lucy is a first-year student at Boise State University pursuing a degree in Environmental Studies. She is also working towards a second interdisciplinary degree in climate studies, sustainability, geospatial information analysis, and drone operations. Lucy grew up in the outdoors of Idaho, where she enjoys long backpacking trips with her dog, kayaking, hiking, skiing, and exploring the backcountry. She is dedicated to protecting the environment and credits her passion to a life spent outside and a childhood that allowed her to appreciate the natural world. Lucy hopes to pursue a life filled with travel and learning. Her professional goals are to work on river conservation and restoration, focusing on collaboration with Native American tribes in particular. She aspires to make a difference and is overjoyed to begin working with the City of Boise with the Andrus Scholars program, which will kickstart her career in conservation.

Phaedra is a senior in the environmental studies program at Boise, also pursuing a minor in biology. Born and raised in Idaho her entire life, she has a strong connection to the natural landscapes in this state, particularly driven by her deep passion for Northwest wildlife and the conservation efforts associated with it. During her time at Boise State, she has engaged in various research projects focused on creating a more holistic understanding of our dynamic ecosystems that make our traditions, cultures and ways of life possible. She loves any opportunity that takes her into the field where she can engage in hands-on knowledge of our lands and the stresses they are currently facing. She hopes to spend her career aiding in the implementation of mitigation tactics as climate and social pressures increase, focusing on collaboration and compromise, while advocating for deep and meaningful change across new domains of environmental management.

Claire is a Junior majoring in Environmental Studies with minors in Legal Studies and Criminal Justice. She is originally from Omaha, Nebraska, and loves to spend time outside trying new things. Her love for the environment was cultivated from a young age as she grew up in Northern California and moved to the Midwest, providing the opportunity to appreciate and live in diverse landscapes. Nebraska offered unique environmental experiences with its sandhills and vast cropland. Claire spent her spring semester interning in Washington, D.C., through the Boise State School of Public Service Program. Claire is excited and honored to work with the Advocates for the West this summer, and is looking forward to hands-on environmental advocacy and experience litigation firsthand. In the future, she hopes to pursue a career centered around the environment, its intersection with people, and their fundamental rights.

Saige is a sophomore at Boise State University pursuing a B.S. in Environmental Science with a data science emphasis and a minor in biology. Additionally, she is working towards certificates in DATA-R and Environmental Education. Saige was raised in Sandpoint, Idaho where she developed her love for nature. She enjoys activities like hiking, rock climbing, camping, and spending time at the river. She is passionate about the preservation of wildlife and the ecosystems they inhabit. Saige hopes to eventually work in a wildlife management position. She particularly enjoys community engagement, some of her favorite volunteer projects being with Idaho Fish and Game and Idaho Trails Association. She values outdoor access and wants to ensure that the enjoyment of nature is possible for future generations. Saige looks forward to beginning her internship with The Boise National Forest and gaining experience that will help support her future career in conservation.