Alumni Voices

School of Education and Human Services

By Emily Morris

Creative Counseling

Rebecca Vannest found inspiration in foundational faculty, and now she’s training the next generation, too

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College of Arts and Sciences |

College of Arts and Sciences

By Michael Downes

“I Couldn’t Say No”

Journalism grad Neal Ruhl’s inability to say no led him to a career in sports

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School of Nursing |

School of Nursing

By Emily Morris

The Value of Our Names

Vernal Tiller leads with a legacy in the health field

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Interdisciplinary Studies

By Amy Ritt

Finding His Place in the World

Zachary Johnson reflects on the people and places along his OU journey that led to a rewarding role

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Emily Morris

History Defined by OU

A slightly trimmed campus tour turned into the first step of a transformational OU journey

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Kathy Angel

A Formula for Success

Alum recognizes the contributions of mentors

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College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Administration

By Patrick Dunn

Different Paths, Same School

Twin brothers found OU ideal to pursue different degrees

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Kelli M. Warshefski

Lighting the Way

After years of uncertainty, Joel Sellentine finds his purpose in helping others discover their own

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School of Education and Human Services

By Kristina Lindberg

Forging Futures

Senior Recruitment Adviser Ruthie Paulus transforms former questions about her future into a career superpower

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School of Engineering and Computer Sciences

By Michael Downes

Engineering the Elements

OU engineering alum shifts focus from auto industry to renewable resources

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School of Engineering and Computer Science

By Kelli M. Warshefski

Taking Flight

From coursework to copters, Carolyn Jordan elevates her mechanical engineering skills with the National Guard and beyond

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School of Music, Theatre and Dance

By Michael Downes

Dancing into the Lion's Den

Ernesto Duran-Gutierrez finds success through his childhood passions

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School of Health Sciences

By Kristina Lindberg

An Everlasting Impact

Through his giving spirit and grit, Mitch Shaver leaves a legacy that lifts others

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Kristina Lindberg

To Connect and Serve

Community is at the core of Kendell Jefferson’s police service

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Amy Ritt

Bringing a Love of Language to Life

Kevin Edgell, CAS ’20, translates his passion into a career overseas

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School of Business Administration

By Amy Ritt

Launching to Success

Taking care of business at home and at OU sparked Noah Edwards’ career

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Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

By Emily Morris

More Than Skin Deep

OUWB medical graduates create a community ripple effect as they provide skincare for underserved populations

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Emily Morris

Residing Resilience

Overcoming setbacks, Amiesha Williams stayed committed to her education for herself and her family

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From Playing in a Creek to Planning Conversation

Environmental Sciences

By Emily Morris

From Playing in a Creek to Planning Conversation

Environmental science studies turned Ayden Ehgotz’s passion into his profession

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Art, Art History and Design

By Emily Morris

Perspective is Everything

Artist Sada Reed finds inspiration all around them

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School of Health Sciences

By Kelli M. Warshefski

A Heart for Healing

Lesley Sleeman’s path to a cardiac career was inspired by her own health journey

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English, Creative Writing and Film

By Rebbecca Steketee

Seeing the Trees to Save the Forests

How one alum combined his love of the outdoors and passion for the environment and is now working to save forests

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Communication, Journalism and Public Relations

By Michael Downes

Head in the Clouds

Spencer Adkins, a chief meteorologist in West Virginia, takes a unique journey to find his passion for weather

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School of Education and Human Services

By Kristina Lindberg

The Buzz for Education

As an educator and apiarist, Brian Peterson-Roest transforms lives and cares for hives

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Physics

By Amy Ritt

Career Success is in the Forecast

An interest in weather leads Bradley Ballish to a career in researching meteorological problems

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Biological Sciences

By Kelli M. Warshefski

The Joy of Water

Aquatic life support technician Ryan Nirganakis finds his calling close to home

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College of Arts and Sciences

By Kristina Lindberg

Lifegiving Friendship

More than 50 years after meeting at OU, Nick Vitale donates his kidney to friend and fellow alum Rose Hirsch

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School of Health Sciences

By Patrick Dunn

Persevering for a Career in Care

Nedi Affas overcomes challenges to pursue med school

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Center for Multicultural Initiatives

By Michael Downes

Dream Ambassador

Omar Brown-El’s resilience forges an inclusive space for students

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School of Education and Human Services

By Emily Morris

Teaching Lifelong Lessons

Cultivating a caring community drives alum in her elementary classroom

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