Administrative Coordinator
CEC 334D
(405) 325-4216
Brittney Benetz is a dedicated Administrative Coordinator for the School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science (CEES) at the University of Oklahoma. A proud Oklahoma native with over 20 years of roots in the state and a graduate of Midwest City High School, Brittney is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in accounting while contributing her skills and enthusiasm to the CEES community. She finds great fulfillment in working alongside the talented staff and faculty in CEES, where her collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence shine through in her daily work. Outside the office, Brittney embraces life in Norman, cheering passionately for the Sooners and the Oklahoma City Thunder. A devoted mother to her daughter, Brittney balances her professional growth, academic pursuits, and family life with dedication and grace.
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Senior Student Services Specialist
CEC 334
(405) 325-5913
Carolyn Emery holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Theatre from the University of the Ozarks, along with additional minors in Education and Art from the University of Oklahoma, the University of New Mexico, and East Central University. Her professional experience includes roles in journalism, technical editing, quality assurance, and forensic document examination. She has also served as an adjunct instructor at Moore-Norman Technology Center. In her spare time, she enjoys watercolor painting and creating chainmaille jewelry.
Research Laboratory Supervisor
CEC 321
(405) 325-2344
Sana Jamshidifard is a Lab Research Supervisor in the School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science at the University of Oklahoma. She oversees laboratory operations, equipment management, and safety compliance. She supports research and teaching activities across the Environmental Studies and Civil Engineering programs and serves as a co-instructor for the Environmental Instrumentation course offered to graduate students. Sana holds a master’s degree in environmental studies from Ohio University and bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering from Iran University of Science and Technology. Her experience includes environmental analysis, air and water quality research, and instrumental techniques such as GC-MS, ICP, and polymer characterization. She is passionate about creating an efficient, well-supported laboratory environment that enhances student learning and faculty research.
Executive Director, WaTER Center
CEC 301B
(405) 325-2916
Palista Kharel is the Executive Director of the Water Technologies for Emerging Regions (WaTER) Center at the University of Oklahoma. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Kenyon College, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has previously worked in economic research, data consulting, energy policy, and business analysis. Her professional experience spans county and state governments, universities, and the private sector. In her current role, she oversees the organizational management of the University of Oklahoma WaTER Center to advance water research, education, and outreach for sustainable development.
