The Oregon State University Sesquicentennial Oral History Project

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Les Risser Oral History Interview

Life history interview conducted by Janice Dilg.

March 24, 2014

Abstract

“Ambassador and First Lady”  March 24, 2014  Location: Risser residence, Norman, Oklahoma.  Watch Video | Download Transcript (PDF)

In the interview, Risser provides a brief overview of her upbringing before recounting her arrival at OSU as First Lady in 1996. She discusses the process by which she became acclimated into the community and notes those who helped her along the way. She also shares her memories of the many activities in which she was engaged while at OSU, including her work with the Student Affairs Task Force on Greek Life, her efforts to improve student safety, and her leadership of the Valley Library Courtyard Quotations Project. Risser likewise reflects upon her association with the OSU Retirement Association, Women in Philanthropy, and other organizations active on campus and within the community. She speaks to her engagement with OSU athletics, including her stint as "guest coach" of the women's basketball team, and mentions her association with the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. The session concludes with Risser providing advice to OSU students of today.