Mapes named OSU Outstanding Senior

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Courtney Mapes graduated in May of 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in animal science and a minor in microbiology. Upon her graduation, she was highly recognized for her leadership and active participation on campus and within the department of animal and food sciences. Recently, she received the honor of being named a 2018 OSU Outstanding Senior.

“Receiving the award of Outstanding Senior was a direct effect of being surrounded by so many people willing to push me towards growth and success during my four years at Oklahoma State, many specifically being from the department of animal and food sciences,” said Mapes.

During her time at OSU, Mapes completed over 900 hours of community service. She was also involved in the Freshmen in Transition program, Student Academic Mentor, CASNR Student Council, Freshman Representative Council, President’s Leadership Council, Oklahoma Agricultural Leadership Encounter, Boren Mentoring Initiative, Student Alumni Board, Homecoming Steering, Mortar Board Honor Society, her sorority and several departmental clubs. Mapes was also an undergraduate teaching assistant for several classes.

“We are extremely fortunate to have such a sought after student who raises the standard of excellence we so strongly desire to have the privilege to work with at Oklahoma State University,” said Rusty Gosz, OSU Cooperative Extension youth specialist. “In addition to her voluntary leadership activities, Courtney also serves as the Oklahoma State University animal science youth livestock intern. Through her efforts in this role, I have had the opportunity to observe her professionalism, work ethic and attention to detail. Courtney has assisted me in organizing and conducting many state and national youth events.”

In the past four years, Mapes has been recognized as a Top 10 Freshman Woman, CASNR Outstanding Freshman, 2017 Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence Mentor, Women for OSU Student Philanthropist of the Year and 2018 CASNR Senior of Distinction. She is also a recipient of the 2018 Animal Science Senior Leadership Award.

“Although my leadership, academic and service experiences have been of incredible value to me, I am certain that the people of Oklahoma State have held the utmost importance to my college experience,” said Mapes. “The cowboy family has surrounded me since birth and will accompany me far past graduation.”

Mapes is applying to medical schools in the surrounding area and plans to continue serving others as a rural family physician.

“She is moving on from her time with us, and pursuing her next set of goals,” said Gosz. “I couldn’t be prouder of Courtney and I count it a privilege to have had her contributions that will be felt for years to come. She is now family and she will be missed.”