Chosen Cougs are part of our Cougar family.
For nearly 70 years, we've recognized parents and family members who have distinctly impacted their child’s collegiate experience at Washington State University. WSU students’ parents, advocates, and chosen family are all celebrated as part of the Cougar family.
If you have someone special in your life who has positively impacted your WSU experience, we want to hear about it! Chosen Cougs can be anyone — parents, siblings, other family members, neighbors, friends, mentors, etc.
Finalists and their nominees are invited to a celebratory brunch with delicious food and plenty of Coug spirit. The winner must be present and will be announced during the event.
Recent Awardees
Spring 2025 Awardee: Dr. Amy Roth McDuffie
WSU graduate student Johana Thomas Zapata nominated Roth McDuffie for the award because of the profound impact she has had on her success at WSU. Thomas Zapata, an international student from Honduras and the first in her family to go to college, reached out to Roth McDuffie in 2019 after being awarded the Fulbright Scholarship. Since then, she has served as her advisor and collaborator, helping to guide her through every step of her academic journey.
“Whether she is leading, coaching, or working alongside me, she has consistently empowered me to contribute to our projects and provided constructive feedback that has helped refine my skills as a researcher and educator,” wrote Tomas Zapata.
Muhammad Tariq
Following her high school graduation, Washington State University Pullman student Maryum Ajaz was struggling with self-doubt when her uncle, Muhammad Tariq, reminded her about the power of education and the doors it could unlock for her future. His words opened her eyes to the possibilities that lay ahead and the role WSU could play in helping her realize her dreams.
Ajaz said her uncle has always been there for her. In her native language, she refers to him as “Tariq Chachoo,” which means uncle. It embodies the close bond they share and the respect she has for him. After high school, Ajaz was reluctant to go to college, and her uncle was one of the few people who encouraged her to leave her comfort zone and try WSU. His nickname for her is “champion of everything,” while Ajaz did not take it seriously at first, she eventually started to believe in it.
Anggri Pratama
Pratama’s decision to leave his established career showcases not only his love for her but also his unyielding belief in the importance of education and dreams. It was an extraordinary act of love and support that breathed life into her pursuit of knowledge. Pratama’s sacrifices allowed her to focus on her studies and created a foundation of love and stability that defines her family.
“He is not merely a life partner, but a true embodiment of the Coug spirit — resilient, supportive, and committed to the success of others,” Arini wrote. “My husband’s impact on my collegiate experience at WSU is immeasurable.”
Jihae Han
My younger sister, selflessly setting aside her own crucial moments, made the long journey from South Korea with my three-year old child and me, determined to help us settle into this quaint college town. She offered her support in every way possible: from babysitting to cleaning and even preparing meals. My first year in my doctoral program was marked by chaos, but thanks to her presence, I not only survived but thrived through that challenging first semester
Marilyn and Michael Gorman (Nominated by Jessica Gorman)
Sophomore WSU student Jessica Gorman nominated her grandparents, Marilyn and Michael Gorman, lovingly called MarMar and PaPa, whose tireless support has allowed Jessica to succeed this semester and throughout her WSU experience.
Her grandmother, who received her master's from WSU, was the one who encouraged her to apply to the ROAR program. Marilyn has been by Jessica's side from the beginning, fueling her passions in the girl scouts, 4-H, and sports, and now supports her as a Coug. She often drives to Pullman to help Jessica and her roommates, hiding surprises in Jessica's room and sending care packages when she most needs them.
Jessica's grandfather Michael has inspired Jessica's curiosity and creativity. His passion for the arts, rocks, gems, and animals has all been passed down to Jessica. Michael encourages her to audit classes that speak to her interests and is eager to chat on the phone after class to discuss what she's learned.
Support from her grandparents has helped Jessica through her WSU experience and as she worries about her mother, who lives with serious medical conditions. Jessica writes, "[My} Mom is my great encourager; Mar Mar and PaPa are my drivers!"
John and Kimberly Smith
Nominated by Jackee Smith
Both my parents deserve to be the Chosen Coug because they aren't just two separate people, they are one team. I wouldn't be okay this semester if it wasn't for both of them. They put their own lives aside to make sure that I can get through to graduation and that I don't drown under the pressure. They worry and they cry over me. But they also laugh and support me from the sidelines. My mom and dad are everywhere in every aspect of my life, and nominating them for Chosen Coug is the least I can do to say thank you.
Brandon Borcher
Nominated by Alexis Curcio
Student Alexis Curcio nominated her brother Brandon Borcher who stepped in as a father figure when he was needed the most, after the loss of their father. Alexis writes: Even as a busy working father, my brother still has the motivation to call me while he’s at work and home to help me remember that it is not just my mom that remembers I’m away at school and I am not totally alone with where I am. My brother has always been my protector and I will always rely on him to stand up for me no matter the situation. He is my inspiration, and the closest thing I have to a father now.
Brandon has always been a Coug at heart; supporting our school since he graduated, and even still to this day, he attends the football games every chance he gets. If anyone deserves this award it is my brother Brandon because even though my father can’t be here for dad’s weekend, Brandon is still going to show up, but not just for one weekend-but my whole life.