3 minutes

Jamie McMurray: Committed to sustainability

As president of the Sustainability in Business Club, Jamie McMurray implemented the first student-facing composting program in the College of Business and provided student outreach and education about campus sustainability and waste management as one of her student jobs. She studied abroad focused on the Scandinavian model for sustainability. McMurray will continue to live this commitment to sustainability.

What are your plans after graduation?

I will be continuing my education at OSU, earning a master of science in the forest ecosystems and society program with a research focus on sustainable business.


What’s your major and/or minor?

A double degree in business administration and sustainability with a minor in organizational leadership and the option in the Dean’s Academy.


What’s one thing you learned during your academic journey that made a big impact?

I learned the importance of getting involved and how impactful that can be for your academic and career journey. During my time at OSU, I’ve had three on-campus jobs, an internship through the OASIS program, a sustainability-focused study abroad trip, honors research experience and served as the president of the Sustainability in Business Club. Without putting myself out there and taking every opportunity that was presented to me, I wouldn’t have accomplished the things I’m most proud of or made as many connections as I have today. The risks I took by getting involved have set me up for success as I enter my graduate education and future career.


Was there a moment you realized you’d grown during your time at OSU?

I realized I had grown throughout my time at OSU when students in the College of Business started reaching out to me for opportunities, especially those related to sustainability. I used to be afraid of public speaking and wouldn’t put myself out there to take on leadership roles. Now that I have my undergrad under my belt, people recognize me for the work I have done and feel safe to use me as resource to connect them to opportunities that will help them reach their goals.

Who or what helped you along the way?

I am coming away from OSU with three amazing mentors. Kaylee Smith, Krista Burke and Rajat Panwar have helped me tremendously by providing insight, inspiration and encouragement that has propelled me in my academic life and professional development. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.


Were you involved in any experiences you’d like to highlight?

As president of the Sustainability in Business Club for two years, I was able to introduce the first student-facing composting program in the College of Business. I’ve also been a teaching assistant for the College of Business for three years and worked for materials management to provide outreach and education about campus sustainability and waste management to improve the student experience. I studied abroad in Scandinavia, learning about sustainable communities, and completed an undergraduate honors thesis studying Oregon business perceptions of environmental regulations.