Graduate Coordinator Honored for Service to Students

OU’s graduate college asked the graduate community to nominate graduate staff members in their home department who have impacted their lives, either personally or professionally. The college said the response was overwhelming, with many nominations for amazing staff members who go above and beyond every day. We’re pleased to announce that our own Coordinator of Graduate Programs Christie Upchurch was one of the four staff members selected campus-wide. The honorees will be recognized at the annual spring Graduate Awards luncheon later this month. Associate Director for Graduate Students Dr. Jeff Basara had this to say about Upchurch: “Christie has the unique ability to combine consummate professionalism with compassion and character. Without question, her service to the graduate students of the School of Meteorology is exceptional and critical to the success of all who progress through our program.” We also heard from Addison Alford, chair of the OU Meteorology Student Affairs Committee: “Christie is one in a million. It is very difficult to describe my gratitude for her dedication, service, and care she shows me, my fellow students, and the School of Meteorology every day. From the simplest question about a form to the most trying personal difficulty, Christie always takes the time to listen to and help no matter her own challenges and schedule. We are beyond fortunate to have Christie in this department.”

We are grateful to Christie and all of our amazing staff for their hard work and commitment to the mission of the University and School.