Evan Brisentine

This is a photo of me taken in a small town in Germany called Monschau, located on the border of Belgium.

MS Historic Preservation

Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2022

Previous Degree: BA, United States History, Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA

I’m From: San Ramon, CA

Why I Came to the UO and How I Chose My Major
I chose the University of Oregon because I am in love with the sheer beauty of the state geographically, historically, and socially. Coming to Oregon dozens of times over the last few years really opened my eyes to the physical beauty of the state and I was able to grasp the every day functionality of cities like Portland and Eugene. I believe the university, especially the College of Design, offers the best tools to advance our ideas and work as creators to succeed in any aspect of our lives that we pursue.

I chose historic preservation after four years of teaching high school and also living in three different countries. I always knew I wanted to continue my education as a historian, but not strictly in an education/teaching environment. Finding my appreciation for architecture and history led me to explore historic preservationist work and the University of Oregon was without a doubt the best place to learn.

I’m looking forward to working with James Buckley and learning more about his lifelong work as a historian and how he has implemented it into historic preservation.

Unique Qualities I Bring to My Studies
I have been playing baseball professionally overseas for the last four years. Living in cities such as Melbourne, Zurich, and Amsterdam, I have developed an appreciation for different stories, and different architectural stories. Learning the history of urban landscapes and all of the different factors that go into the creation of a city really helped mold my love for history and my fascination with architecture.

Extracurricular Activities I Want to Pursue
I am excited to work with my classmates, especially people with different backgrounds of study and research. Learning more about the city of Portland will help me shape my vision as to what I want to accomplish. I’m also looking forward to the resumption of play of the UO sports teams once we’re past the oandemic!

After Graduation
I hope to use my degree to create better urban environments, through policy, historic restoration, and proper narrations.

Your Gift
This scholarship will be a big help to ease the financial burden and allow me more time to focus on my craft.

Thank you so much! I would love learn more about Art DeMuro and his path through life.