OSU Rhodes Scholar returns to teach

Friday, September 26, 2008

Alumnus Blaine Greteman returned to Oklahoma State University this fall to teach classes in the English department. 

That’s special not only because Greteman earned an Honors degree in 1998 but also because he is the only OSU student to be named a Rhodes Scholar.

“I enjoyed my time here as an undergrad,” Greteman said. “Without the mentoring and research opportunities I received at OSU, I don’t think I could have won the Rhodes Scholarship.”

Greteman said his experience as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University was unlike any other. 

“It was great — among the most intellectually and culturally rewarding things I’ve done,” he said. “I think you can only explain an experience like that by saying it is truly transformative. For me, the before and after difference must have been a little like it was for those people in the 17th century who finally got their first glimpse into a telescope after spending years hearing about it from others.”

Robert Graalman, director of the OSU Office of Scholar Development and Recognition, helped Greteman apply for the Rhodes Scholarship.

“Blaine’s return to OSU is a thrill for all who knew him when he won the Rhodes Scholarship and for all who know what he will provide to our students,” Graalman said. “His successes as an undergraduate were memorable and significant, and no doubt his involvement as an instructor will be the same.”

Since Greteman left OSU, he has been busy working and starting a family. 

“I worked as a journalist for TIME magazine in London, where I also appeared regularly as a commentator on the BBC,” he said. “I’m still keeping a hand in journalism as a writer for Ode magazine.”

He and his wife, Mandi Bozarth (who also graduated from OSU with an Honors Degree in English), are the parents of a 3-year-old son, a one-half-year-old daughter, and newborn twin sons. 

“Any more, and we’d have a rugby side, not a family,” Greteman said.

Greteman came back to OSU for more than one reason. 

“I still have family here, so it was nice to come back,” he said. “I also really enjoy the students at OSU. They have a great attitude and are ready to learn.”

Growing up in Hydro, Oklahoma, Greteman can identify with students from small towns. 

“I came from a small town, and coming to OSU was really an eye-opening experience for me. It’s fun to be a part of that for the students now,” he said. “I feel a kinship to all the students here.”

Greteman has been away from OSU for 10 years and is excited to be back. 

“What surprised me the most was how dynamic the atmosphere is here with the construction and all the recent donations,” he said. “The energy is great, and it feels like OSU is moving in a great direction.”

Others at OSU are excited to have Greteman back, including Bob Spurrier, director of the Honors College.

“As an undergraduate honors student, Greteman brought the joy of learning and a commitment to making the most of his educational opportunities,” Spurrier said. “He is living proof that young men and women from Oklahoma should set their sights on the stars.”