Gracee Pierson
Nursing, Class of 2026
From Tulsa, Oklahoma
When you meet OU–Tulsa’s Student Government Association President, Gracee Pierson, one thing becomes clear: her journey is all about connection, growth, and creating opportunities for others.
Originally from Tulsa, Gracie recently returned home to complete her degree at the Schusterman Center, where she's quickly become a leader and advocate for her peers. Read below to learn more about her journey to OU–Tulsa, what community means to her, and why student involvement can make a big difference.
I spent my first two years at OU in Norman. In high school, I was a concurrent enrollment student, so I had already earned a few college credits. My dream was always to go to OU, and I worked hard to get good ACT scores to make that happen.
At first, I planned to go pre-med, but once I started, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Someone suggested nursing, and that’s when I learned about the Schusterman Center in Tulsa. Moving back home meant I could be closer to family, so I applied, got accepted, and I’ve loved it ever since.
I first got involved with The Big Event, which was one of my favorite events on the OU-Norman campus. I was very active in my sorority, so when I found out OU–Tulsa hosted it too, I jumped right in. I eventually became the head chair and helped organize the event last year. It was such a fun and rewarding experience, shout out to everyone who helped make it happen!
When I spent two years in Norman, I was very involved on campus. I participated in Greek life and helped with family weekend events in both spring and fall. I’ve always loved being active in campus life.
When I transferred to the Schusterman Center, I worried there wouldn’t be many opportunities to get involved. But I was completely wrong! During my junior year, I joined the College of Nursing Student Association (CONSA) as the junior class representative. That role allowed me to speak on behalf of my peers and share their concerns and ideas.
One of my responsibilities with CONSA was attending student government meetings as a voting representative for the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. I did that for a year and absolutely loved it.
To me, community means everyone is welcome, no matter where you come from, your background, or your degree path. There are so many ways to get involved on this campus and make friends.
You’ll meet professors who are deeply invested in your education and your success, as well as staff and faculty who truly care. I’m in Student Affairs all the time talking with them, and they’re always supportive and engaged.
Here, you’re not just another face in the crowd. I’ve made friends in PT, OT, cybersecurity, master’s programs, and doctorate programs. You build connections that last a lifetime, and you’ll always have a home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Truly, I love it.
Don’t judge the campus by its size. It’s not Norman with all the big, stereotypical college experiences, but there is so much offered here. Everyone on this campus wants you to succeed. They want you to feel welcome and happy. We have incredible resources to help you thrive academically and personally. So don’t underestimate a small campus. OU–Tulsa has everything you need to succeed.
