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Contact UsFrom Uncertainty to Discovery: How MSU Denver Launched Evan Morrison’s Scientific Journey
When Evan Jovon Morrison ‘16 arrived at MSU Denver, he wasn’t certain college was something he would finish. Raised in Aurora, Colorado, the university’s proximity and accessibility made it a practical choice — but it quickly became much more than that. By committing to just one year, Morrison took a chance on himself, one that would ultimately lead to two degrees, a PhD, and a career in biomedical research.
A Campus That Took Students Seriously
From his first semester, Morrison noticed something that set MSU Denver apart: professors who treated both their disciplines and their students with seriousness and respect. That environment pushed him to engage deeply with learning, often taking 18 to 20 credits per semester and graduating with 190 credits.
An Introduction to Ethics course with Marc LaRock sparked a passion for philosophy and asking big questions. Mentors including Tony Chu and Sam Morris helped shape Morrison’s intellectual foundation, while a summer book club exploring Wittgenstein challenged him to consider the limits of philosophy — and pointed him toward science.
Bridging Philosophy and Chemistry
Morrison’s curiosity led him to chemistry, where he found the same sense of wonder in molecular interactions as he had in abstract thought. Professors April Hill, Ethan Tsai, Michael Jacobs, and Megan Filbin-Wong played pivotal roles, providing mentorship that extended beyond the classroom. Working as a tutor, Morrison also engaged with MSU Denver’s diverse student population, reinforcing the university’s mission to serve learners of all backgrounds.
A Launchpad for Advanced Research
After graduation, Morrison’s MSU Denver training prepared him for competitive research roles at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, National Jewish Health, and the CU Cancer Center. He later earned a PhD in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and is now a postdoctoral researcher studying protein synthesis and degradation, with implications for biotechnology and medicine.
Education That Creates Opportunity
For Morrison, MSU Denver delivered more than degrees. It provided access, mentorship, and the freedom to explore — core values at the heart of the university’s mission. “MSU Denver gave me not only knowledge,” he said, “but perspective, humility, and a way of thinking that continues to guide me.”
His journey reflects the power of an MSU Denver education: transforming uncertainty into purpose and opening doors to discovery that reach far beyond campus.