One weekend, two diplomas

By: Keely Moxley, OSU Open Campus Coordinator in Klamath Falls

Rebecca Brooksher, a 28 year old mom of two, was the first graduate of a new agricultural sciences degree completion program, offered in Klamath Falls through Oregon State University and Klamath Community College (KCC). This is the story of her busy graduation weekend.

: Friday, June 14: Rebecca received her KCC diploma from Vice Provost Scott Reed and Dean Dan Arp. We had to leave their commencement a little early to make the four hour drive up to Corvallis.

: Saturday, June 15: Rebecca’s daughter, Madisyn, loved that everyone knew who her mom was. She asked if her mom was some kind of celebrity.

: Look who we found!

At the Ecampus reception we got to meet with Rebecca’s on-campus advisor, Melanie Jones, who was instrumental in guiding Rebecca towards her degree.

Of course, we had to decorate her mortar board.

Rebecca’s family went to save seats at Reser Stadium while we got her lined up for commencement.

I asked Rebecca what her favorite part of her weekend was. She said, “I think seeing the impact that OSU had on my family was the coolest part. However, Dean Arp recognizing me and giving me a hug as he handed me my diploma was a close second.”

Rebecca’s parents, grandparents, husband, one of her daughters, and a few friends watched her walk across the stage in Reser Stadium. They were incredibly impressed by all facets of the commencement as well as the OSU campus.

As Rebecca’s mentor and coach here in Klamath Falls, I am so proud of all the work that she has accomplished for herself, her family, and her community. Her goal is to obtain her Masters of Science in Agriculture Education so that she can share her passion for agriculture as a high school agriculture teacher.