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.
President Jim Hess
Dr. Jim Hess, a native of Henryetta, Oklahoma, has over 43 years of service in Oklahoma
higher education. Hess was named president by the Board of Regents in April 2025 after
serving as interim president since February 2025. Previously, 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