OSU President Looking Back On Career During Women's History Month

When Dr. Shrum was a medical student at Oklahoma State University, she said she never imagined becoming the University's first female president.

A lifelong Oklahoman and OSU Cowboys fan, Dr. Shrum was the youngest, and first, female dean of OSU’s Center for Health Sciences.

Dr. Shrum has also worked with Governor Stitt as the state's first cabinet secretary of science and innovation, and was inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame in 2022.

Of the many projects she has worked on, Dr. Shrum said one program she was involved in was quite fulfilling.

The program, called Blue Coat to White Coat, connects students involved with Future Farmers of America to possibilities in medical school. 

"It was very fulfilling for me, because somehow what I've done has made an impact on someone who's going to go do great things," Dr. Shrum said

Dr. Shrum said one student in particular inspired her keep inspiring others.

"She knew she wanted to go to medical school because she experienced Blue Coat to White Coat," said Shrum.

Dr. Shrum said she encourages young girls and other women to dream big, not be limited by what you see and to work hard towards achieving your goals.