Meeting a more educated woman in 2016 challenged me as a single mother. I went back to school, earned my BSc, MSc, and I'm now about to receive my PhD.
Mercy Ogunruku · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Mercy
Mercy Ogunruku is a wood scientist and environmental scientist in the field of academia. Her interest in reading began early in Nigeria, influenced by her father's emphasis on academics, leading her to pursue education throughout her life. She earned a diploma in Nigeria, followed by a bachelor's degree, and then came to the United States for a master's program after connecting with a mentor and securing funding. She transitioned into wood science for her graduate work, focusing her research on cross-laminated timber (CLT) made from low-value wood species to promote sustainability, reduce energy use and waste, and improve the economic value of underutilized species. After completing her master's, she pursued and recently defended her PhD dissertation three years later, examining declining enrollment in wood science programs and developing recommendations for sustainability of the profession. She has presented at conferences, developed professional skills through networking, and volunteered to teach online at a school in Nigeria. Ogunruku is committed to mentoring younger people, giving back to her community, and supporting women in science fields that are becoming more balanced in gender representation.
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