New oral history interview: Susan Shugerman, M.F.A., Ed.D.

By:
Susan Shugarman wears dark clothing on a dark background and listens to an off-screen interviewer
Susan Shugerman, M.F.A., Ed.D.

The OHSU Library is happy to present an oral history interview with Susan Shugerman, M.F.A., Ed.D., who served as the Assistant Vice Provost for Education Outreach and Collaboration and was the first Director of the Office of Science Education Opportunities at OHSU. In this interview, Shugerman shares her experiences developing and leading this office and various education outreach efforts at OHSU.

Creating the Office of Science Education Opportunities 

Shugerman describes her role in creating the infrastructure for the Office of Science Education Opportunities and the significant growth and adaptation of the office over the years. A key priority was developing age-appropriate materials for visiting K-12 students and creating strong partnerships with educators.  

Key Moments for the Office 

In 2004, OHSU hosted the prestigious Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, drawing an impressive 6,000 Oregon students. This nationwide competition, which begins at the middle school level but primarily showcases high school talent, highlighted Oregon's commitment to science education.

The second milestone came through OHSU's dynamic partnership with OMSI during the Body Worlds exhibit in 2007. For 13 weeks, OHSU's faculty, students, and staff served as knowledgeable guides, bringing the exhibit to life for museum visitors. This collaboration solidified OHSU's dedication to public science education and community engagement.

On Track OHSU! 

Perhaps Shugerman's most enduring contribution to OHSU is the On Track OHSU! program, an innovative health and science pathways initiative. This program specifically focuses on engaging middle and high school students from underrepresented communities across Oregon in scientific discovery. Through strategic partnerships with five distinct communities, including the Klamath Tribes and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, each supported by an embedded staff member, the program creates lasting connections between OHSU and the communities it serves.

Read (or watch) the full interview and explore over 150 others in the OHSU Oral History Program’s online collection.