With every stride around the track, Jamaira Ross chases more than a finish line; she is running toward a future she’s been dreaming of since childhood.
Ross, a native of Atlanta, Ga., faced many challenges in the first nine years of her life. At the age of four, she lost her mother. She was then sent to live with a grandmother while her dad fought for custody. After a few months of the custody battle, Ross was able to live with her dad. At nine years old, she and her dad made their way to Dallas, Texas, to pursue a better life.
Ross endured challenges growing up in Texas.
“At one time we were homeless, living in our car while my dad was between jobs.”
While living in Dallas, Ross attended four different school districts from fourth grade to high school.
“Attending college was non-negotiable for me, I knew I needed a college education to complete my dream of becoming a veterinarian.”
Once she graduated from high school, Ross made her way to several colleges before finding her home at Northwestern.
“Although I grew up in two highly-populated cities, I knew I would excel in a small town.”
Success at Northwestern
Before attending Northwestern, Ross had proven her excellence on the track. She made it to nationals and became an all-American. Although she had great success at other colleges and universities, they never felt like home.
Ross is a standout member of the track and field team, competing in eight events across both indoor and outdoor seasons. Her indoor events include the 3K, 5K, mile, and distance medley relay, in which she holds the school record. Outdoors, she competes in the steeplechase, 1500m, 5K, and again in the distance medley relay. She holds school records in the 3K steeplechase, 5K, and distance medley relay. Her performance in the 3K steeplechase has earned her Great American Conference Honorable Mention recognition.
In addition to track, Ross is a key contributor to the cross-country team, where she holds the school records in both the 5K and 6K races.
“Ross is an individual who takes both her schoolwork and running very seriously,” said Sterlin Broomfield, head men’s & women’s cross-country coach. “Her dedication is unmistakable; no one ever has to wonder if she’s giving her all.”
“Jamaira has been able to thrive as a student and an athlete while at Northwestern,” said
Calleb Mosburg, vice president and dean of student affairs. “She is on the path to success.”
“Northwestern has always felt like home,” said Ross.
“I really enjoy the smaller class size and the one-on-one availability with professors.”
Ross shared one of her favorite classes has been human physiology with Dr. Piper Robida, associate professor of biology.
“Dr. Robida is personable and approachable; she makes it easier to ask questions in class and gain a better knowledge of the subject,” said Ross.
The Future Looks Bright
After graduation in spring of ’26, Ross hopes to be accepted into the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University. In the meantime, she plans to become a veterinary technician and shadow at a local veterinary office.
“While transferring from my last school, I faced what I thought was the end-all; but standing in the shadows and what became my saving grace was Northwestern Oklahoma State University.”
What started as a new chapter became something much more. With the support of her teammates, coaches, professors and deans, she found both success and a sense of belonging. Northwestern has shaped her in ways she had never expected.