OSU/A&M Board of Regents authorize chair to proceed with contract for new OSU President

Friday, March 7, 2008

Burns Hargis Will Start Job Monday

(STILLWATER, Okla., March 7, 2008) – The OSU/A&M Board of Regents unanimously voted to authorize the Chair of the Regents to execute a three-year contract to hire V. Burns Hargis as the 18th President of Oklahoma State University and the OSU System during a regularly scheduled meeting today.

“Burns Hargis is a truly exceptional leader,” said Lou Watkins, chair of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, which governs OSU and the OSU System as well as four additional institutions of higher education in Oklahoma.  “He has distinguished himself as one of Oklahoma’s most dynamic leaders, earning the respect of people from across the country.  

“Throughout his career in both business and public service, he has demonstrated an ability to approach important matters strategically and creatively.  We are indeed excited about the future of OSU and the System under the leadership of President Hargis,” Watkins said.

“I am honored and humbled by this appointment,” Hargis said.  “As an OSU graduate, I have a deep love for this university and a strong desire to see it excel as one of our nation’s leading land-grant universities.  I count it a real privilege to lead OSU and look forward to working collaboratively with the Board of Regents, faculty, staff, students, alumni and supporters.”

Hargis will oversee one of the nation’s most comprehensive land-grant university systems with more than 32,500 students, 7,400 employees, and campuses located in Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Okmulgee.

Under the proposed contract, Hargis would receive $350,000 in annual salary.  He would also receive a $20,000 a year car allowance and memberships to Karsten Creek and Stillwater Country Club.  In addition, Hargis will receive the customary health and retirement benefits afforded OSU employees.

Hargis and his wife Ann will reside in the Willham House, a university-provided home for the president north of campus on Washington Avenue.   

Hargis begins his new job on Monday.