O'Connor Pursuing Advanced Chemical Engineering at Cambridge

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Chad O’Connor of Ponca City, Okla. was accepted into University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, capitalizing on a unique opportunity through the prestigious W.W. Allen Scholars Program at Oklahoma State University; considered the premier engineering scholars program in the nation. This program includes a generous scholarship and awards package to advance development towards being one of the nation’s top engineering graduates.
 
O’Connor completed a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from OSU in May, and is currently pursuing a master of philosophy in advanced chemical engineering at one of the world’s foremost universities, the University of Cambridge.  
 
The Allen Scholars Program is designed to accelerate leadership and professional development, stimulate intellectual growth, enhance interpersonal skills, develop career and cultural perspectives, and to prepare graduates for a full awareness of global forces and opportunities. It is highlighted by the opportunity to study abroad at the University of Cambridge.
 
“This program provides unique learning and networking experiences, with the defining characteristic being a one-year master’s study at the University of Cambridge,” said Dr. Karl Reid, Regents Service Professor, College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at OSU.  “Some of tomorrow’s corporate leaders will be former or current Allen Scholars. They are competitive and innovative professionals who will make a difference in our world.”
 
The scholars program was established by W. Wayne Allen, former chairman and CEO of Phillips Petroleum Company. Aside from being personally mentored by Allen, the scholar receives an annual scholarship throughout their undergraduate studies at OSU, followed by full tuition, fees and housing for a master of philosophy degree program at the University of Cambridge.
 
The value of this OSU exclusive program exceeds most other national engineering awards, totaling approximately $82,000 in scholarship, enrichment activities and study abroad experience.
 
O’Conner is the son of Rhonda and Tim O’Connor, and graduated from Ponca City High School. He was active in many areas at OSU including being selected for Phi Kappa Phi, a National Honors Society, and graduated Suma Cum Laude with an Honors College degree.