Geoff Steeves, PhD

He did it! 

In just two and a half years, and in a foreign language no less, Geoff earned his PhD in economics. 

We came to Brazil in 2012 because Geoff was awarded the Olmsted Scholarship, which places military officers in the country of their choice to increase cultural connections, part of which includes studying at a local university. Because Geoff arrived in-country with his master's in econ from the University of Colorado - Boulder (Go Buffs), he decided to pursue a doctorate rather than a second master's degree in something else. As it turned out, the PhD program in economics is new and Geoff was the first student at UFSC to be awarded a doctorate in economics. And he finished with a 3.75 gpa. 

Below is the big day -- his dissertation defense and the after party: 

Definitely looks like a doctor to me.

Nearly three years in the making!

Tough crowd: This is the panel of professors that reviewed Geoff's
dissertation, listened to his defense, and offered insight on his
research and findings. 

Adoring fans (plus me! I'm taking the pictures): These are Geoff's
buddies from the econ program. Some are earning their masters' and
others are earning their PhDs.

Geoff signing off on the completion of his program
(and practicing the ubiquitous, illegible doctor's signature.)

The after party: Geoff and his two academic advisors, Francis and Guilherme. 

Eri and Leo mingling. 

Supply and demand.

My mom serving the cake. My parents were in town
and helped us celebrate.

I'm so proud.

Eri and her Grandpa Booboo.