Christy Moeller ’98

From Learning to Read to Saving Lives: The Resilient Journey of Dr. Christy Moeller '98

How an Oakridge foundation turned early academic hurdles into a career in vascular surgery.

From early academic challenges to a distinguished career in medicine, Christy Moeller '98 embodies the perseverance, curiosity, and confidence fostered at The Oakridge School. Now a board-certified general and vascular surgeon, Dr. Moeller credits Oakridge with shaping not only her academic foundation, but also the mindset that carried her through one of the most demanding professional paths imaginable.

A Foundation Built at Oakridge

Christy's Oakridge journey began long before she ever stepped into an operating room. In fact, she openly shares that learning did not come easily at first.

"I couldn't read in Kindergarten, but I learned how to in first grade," she recalls. A teacher's belief made all the difference. "Betty Garton advocated for me to move forward instead of repeating Kindergarten." These early experiences taught Christy dedication and perseverance—traits that would define her academic and professional career.

The "Oakridge Difference"

"I'll say an obscure word, and my husband will laugh and say, 'That must be your Oakridge education," Christy shares. "Oakridge taught me how to work hard. Not everyone comes in first place. Oakridge did it the right way."

Finding Confidence Beyond the Classroom

After graduating from Oakridge in 1998, Christy attended the University of Miami, where she thrived both academically and as the featured twirler for the Hurricanes football team. Her transition to college life, however, was not without challenges.

"Freshman year felt exciting, but it was also scary and new—especially without my parents there," she says. Still, the grit she developed at Oakridge paid off. "The last three years were exceptional," Christy recalls. "2001-2002 was a perfect season with Miami defeating Nebraska in the BCS Championship game at The Rose Bowl!"

A Calling to Medicine

Christy's academic journey led her to McGovern Medical School and Baylor College of Medicine, where she completed one of the most rigorous specialties in medicine: vascular surgery. Residency proved to be one of the most testing periods of her life.

"There was a moment when I felt like I couldn't go on," she admits. "Surgical specialties are incredibly demanding—especially for women." Today, she takes pride in seeing more women entering the field and continuing to break barriers.

Practicing with Purpose

Now serving patients in Kelsey-Seybold's Surgery Department, Dr. Moeller is known for her patient-centered approach and commitment to compassionate care.

"Sometimes there are a few right options in surgery," she explains. "My job is to work with my patients so we can choose the best path together."

Advice for Today's Owls

When asked what she would tell current Oakridge students, Christy doesn't hesitate:

• Fall Forward: "You are going to fall down, and that's okay, as long as you fall forward."
• Be Kind to Yourself: "I wish I had been kinder to myself. You get so caught up in being everything to everyone."
• Prioritize Your Needs: "Sometimes, you need to focus on what you need."

Beyond the Operating Room

Outside of her demanding career, Christy enjoys weightlifting, scuba diving, and cheering on the San Francisco 49ers. Christy and her husband Evan reside in Houston.

Where It All Began

Christy Moeller '98 stands as a powerful example of where an Oakridge education can lead: from a young student learning to read to a surgeon changing lives every day. Her story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the lifelong impact of a community that believes in its students from the very beginning.