Office of the President
The President of Oklahoma State University leads the OSU system, which through its
land-grant mission, serves as an inclusive learning, teaching and outreach institution
at its campuses in Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Okmulgee, and its extension
offices across the state.
Our distinctive land-grant calling
OSU unveiled a strategic plan in 2022 focused on coming together as a community behind a set of long-term goals
to take OSU to new heights of academic and research excellence as the premier land-grant
university. Together, the Cowboy family has already achieved remarkable milestones.
Interim President James Hess
Dr. James Hess, a native of Henryetta, Oklahoma, has over 43 years of service in Oklahoma
higher education. Hess was named interim president by the Board of Regents in February
2025. Most recently, he served as the vice provost for graduate programs at OSU-CHS,
where he supervised all academic graduate programs and taught a full graduate coursework
load. Dr. Hess also served as the CEO of the OSU Veterinary Medicine Authority. During
his time in higher education, he has initiated several innovative online graduate
programs, leading to enrollment growth at OSU-CHS.
Crafting a bold vision
Uncommon preeminence for the common good
Oklahoma State University unveiled a visionary new strategy to become the nation’s
preeminent land-grant institution.
The strategy includes initiatives to reduce student debt, innovate around student
competencies and focus research on solving society’s most significant challenges.
OSU Governance
OSU Ombuds Office
The President's office created the OSU Ombuds Office to promote a supportive learning and working environment.
Ombuds office Charter Purpose and Function Code of Ethics Standards of Practice