José Naranjo Mendez, an undergraduate in chemical engineering, is one of three students at Oregon State University chosen to receive the 2024 Barry Goldwater Scholarship, a national award established in 1986 in memory of Sen. Barry Goldwater.

Mendez says the scholarship will go toward tuition, so he can work less while in school.

“I’ll enjoy more time with friends, embracing a bigger social life and presence on campus,” he said.

He’ll also have more time for his research. Under the supervision of Lucas Ellis, assistant professor and Callahan Faculty Scholar in Chemical Engineering, Mendez explores the process of “upcycling plastics.” Using catalysts to convert polymers (the long-chain molecules that make up plastics) into monomers (the smaller molecules that form the “links” of a polymer chain), the research aims to create a “circular economy” for plastics, a system based on reuse and regeneration. The resulting monomers can be used for further synthesis to create new materials.

Mendez says he initially couldn’t imagine himself winning a Goldwater Scholarship. He built his confidence through weekly meetings with an advisor he connected with through the National and Global Scholarship Advising office at Oregon State.

“The process allowed me to uncover my story, understand my journey, and recognize my identity — as a researcher, a student, and an active member of my campus community,” Mendez said. “The Goldwater Scholarship served as a catalyst.”

Mendez serves as an academic learning assistant, mentoring students in the Nia Black Scholar Living-Learning Community and the munk-skukum Indigenous Living-Learning Community. He has also tutored in the Griggs Center, a space dedicated to supporting the academic success of Black and Indigenous students.

Mendez says the university has prioritized creating a safe and inclusive environment for people of color on campus.

“I appreciate the freedom to voice my opinions without fear of retaliation,” Mendez said. “The faculty are receptive to feedback and ensure the environment is welcoming for everyone.”

Mendez relates his connection with community to his interest in engineering.

“Chemistry has allowed me to grasp the fundamental concepts and driving forces of various biological systems,” he said. “By focusing on engineering, I’ve developed a mindset geared toward harnessing these concepts to enhance sustainability and make positive changes in the world.”

Mendez plans to continue his studies in chemical engineering in a graduate program.