Three Southern Utah University interns received the Life Saver Award on August 19, 2026, after helping to save the life of a hiker near Kanab. The interns encountered a 67-year-old woman in medical distress at The Wave on July 15, 2026, and provided first aid and stabilization until emergency personnel arrived.
Brooklyn Bauer, Jake McDonald, and Conner Buchanan were patrolling the hiking destination when they encountered the woman in severe medical distress. The group, which participated in the SUU Intergovernmental Internship Cooperative (IIC), used emergency supplies and contacted Search and Rescue to assist the hiker during the July afternoon heat.
Shannon Eberhard, Assistant Director of Outdoor Pathways, stated that the interns' actions represented an extraordinary moment in a season where IIC interns have contributed approximately 53,000 hours toward educating visitors, protecting wildlife, and improving public lands.
The end-of-season celebration also recognized several other student achievements. Corinne Braley received the Impact by Design Award for her work with the U.S. Forest Service, while Kaitlyn Esplin was named Intern of the Year for her work with the Bureau of Land Management and Bryce Canyon National Park.
Other honorees included Joseph Rodriguez, who was named Rookie of the Year at Zion National Park, and Chaz Espinoza, who received the Crew Most Valuable Player of the Year award. Additionally, scholarships were awarded to Tate Walker, Tomi Bundy, and Ava Knava for their digital showcase projects.
The IIC, housed within SUU's Outdoor Pathways, connects students with hands-on learning through partnerships with land management agencies, nonprofits, and Native American tribes across Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. The program facilitates professional development in fields such as wildlife conservation, engineering, and public land management.
