It's his dedication and positive attitude, both in the workplace and in his recovery effort, that first come to the minds of faculty and friends. It was never a question whether Gerrit would be able to walk with a cane instead of his walker. Even though Cuperus has an extremely busy schedule, he always finds a place to fit in a new project. Billie Chambers, 4-H program specialist, recalls working with Cuperus on Caring for Planet Earth at the Tulsa State Fair. The program helps to show urban and rural kids the importance of environmental awareness.
Chambers fondly remembers the first time they ever worked together.
Chambers had never written a grant before and received the application at the last minute. Cuperus couldn't help her write the grant, but he did the next best thing. He showed her examples and gave the direction and encouragement to get the task, which seemed impossible, completed. He is very good with building coalitions of groups of people to work together on diverse problems and takes the initiative to make contacts personally to help bring these people together, Chambers said. Another individual who Cuperus has touched is Greg Owen, OSU entomology alumnus and Pittsburg County Extension agent.