Mafi receives Ferguson College of Agriculture Excellence in Undergraduate Advising and Mentoring Award
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Media Contact: Sophia Fahleson | Digital Communications Specialist | 405-744-7063 | sophia.fahleson@okstate.edu
Gretchen Mafi, professor in the Oklahoma State University Department of Animal and Food Sciences, is the recipient of the 2024 Excellence in Undergraduate Advising and Mentoring Award. Mafi was recognized in April at the annual Ferguson College of Agriculture Scholarships and Awards banquet.
Richard Coffey, animal and food sciences department head, described Mafi as an outstanding instructor and a leader in departmental advising, investing countless hours to ensure students are supported.
“Dr. Mafi has excellent knowledge of helping students stay on track for graduation and positioning them for success,” Coffey said. “Her organization and attention to detail help tailor her advising to each, individual student, and her caring and positive attitude allows students to be receptive to this mentoring.”
As the department’s undergraduate advising coordinator, Mafi organizes advising efforts to serve undergraduate students. She connects students with faculty members and supports faculty who have advising roles. Mafi also personally advises more than 100 undergraduate students each semester.
In addition to advising, Mafi teaches several courses, coaches the OSU Meat Judging Team and advises the OSU Meat Science Association. Mafi also represents the Ferguson College on the OSU advising working group.
“Dr. Mafi’s approach to advising and mentoring focuses on providing an experience for all students to feel supported by and connected to faculty throughout their time in college,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean of the Ferguson College of Agriculture.
Mafi said she has a strong passion for promoting students’ self-growth and success in and out of the classroom. She aims to help students form their own values and ideas so they are prepared to answer challenging questions and solve complex problems.
“Students arrive with different backgrounds, interests and learning styles,” Mafi said. “It’s important to use individual methods to help them develop their educational objectives and career goals, and help them find excellence in each aspect of their lives.”
Mafi said that receiving this award has been a special recognition.
“This award shows me that my challenges and successes in advising and mentoring are recognized by the students, faculty, staff and administration in the Ferguson College,” Mafi said. “For someone like me who has a true passion for educating and mentoring, OSU is the best place to work.”