Western Washington University honored its outstanding graduates for 2015-16 at spring commencement Saturday, June 11. A Fall City resident, Patrick Hutchins, was one of the students chosen for the honor.

Hutchins graduated with a bachelor’s degree in environmental education and was the outstanding graduate in the Environmental Studies Department. During his time at Western, he was part of an eight-person team that planned and led a five-day outdoor education course on Sucia Island for 24 at-risk youth. He also worked as an assistant in the Family Interactive Gallery at the Whatcom Museum, where he developed science-based exhibits for young children. Faculty members praised him for his communication and leadership skills and his ability to adapt to teachable moments in the field. Hutchins, the son of Terry and James Hutchins, grew up in Sammamish and Fall City and is a graduate of Eastlake High School in Sammamish and Seattle Central Community College.

Faculty members from dozens of academic departments and programs select one graduate to honor as the Outstanding Graduate of the year. Selection is a high honor based on grades, research and writing, service to the campus and community, and promise for the future.