Brothers Establish Scholarship Fund at Idaho State University Honoring Charles Trost

Two brothers are celebrating the legacy of their mentor and helping to give a boost to the next generation of Bengal biologists at Idaho State University. 

Recently, ISU alums Tim and Mark Reynolds established the Reynolds Brothers Biology Scholarship Fund in Honor of Dr. Charles H. Trost. Trost served as a Professor in the biological sciences department at Idaho State University, teaching ornithology, animal behavior, comparative anatomy, and physiological ecology, and conducting research on black-billed magpies for more than 30 years before retiring in 2000. 

The Reynolds brothers were among the more than 40 master’s and doctoral students sponsored by Trost, with Tim earning a doctorate in 1978 and Mark earning a master’s in 1982. After their time at Idaho State, the brothers went on to successful careers in conservation and natural sciences.

“Dr. Trost’s enthusiasm, erudition, and environmental ethic have elevated the experiences and enriched the lives of those around him,” said Tim. “I had so many interesting experiences as a student with him, from skiing and looking for grouse, to a river trip on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. I’d like to thank him for his guidance and friendship all of these years.”

“Dr. Trost modeled what it means to be both a serious scholar and an engaged citizen,” Mark said. “He wasn’t just a brilliant scientist; he was out leading bird walks, giving talks, and fighting for conservation. That example has stayed with me my entire career. He helped me see that you can work at the highest level as a scientist and still be deeply rooted in your community and in nature.”

The new scholarship fund will support biology majors pursuing ornithology, ecology, or conservation-related coursework at ISU.

“We are grateful for the Reynolds brothers’ commitment to supporting students and honoring the mentorship of Dr. Trost that shaped their lives,” Blair Devenberg, director of development for ISU’s College of Science and Engineering. “They are creating a ripple effect across generations by helping students turn their passion for ecology into meaningful conservation work.”

“This scholarship is about making sure the next generation of field biologists has the kinds of opportunities that shaped my life,” Mark said. 

“We hope to give these students a little boost when they need it, and hopefully, they’ll pay it forward when they have the resources to do so,” said Tim. 

For more information about giving to Idaho State University, visit isu.edu/give or contact Blair Devenberg at blairdevenberg@isu.edu.