OSU A&M Board of Regents, OSU Interim President Hess release statements in response to the passing of Wes Watkins
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Dr. Jim Hess:
The Cowboy family lost a leader and friend today with the passing of Wes Watkins.
Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time. He left an indelible mark
on this university, his alma mater, through his generosity and vision for economic
prosperity for Oklahoma businesses and students.
A lifelong advocate for education, economic development and international trade, Wes dedicated his career to creating opportunities for Oklahomans and ensuring the state had a strong presence on the global stage. From his time as a U.S. congressman to his instrumental role in establishing the Wes Watkins Center for International Trade Development in 1990, his vision was always focused on the future — one where Oklahoma businesses and students could thrive in an interconnected world.
Beyond his work in economic development, Wes championed agriculture and rural communities, ensuring southeastern Oklahoma and its farmers had the resources needed to adapt and succeed. The Wes Watkins Agricultural Research and Extension Center continues to provide vital research in alternative cropping systems, benefiting Oklahoma’s agricultural industry for generations to come.
His legacy will forever shape OSU and the state he loved. The Cowboy family will always remember Wes Watkins as a visionary leader and a true champion for Oklahoma.
Chairman Jimmy Harrel, OSU/A&M Board of Regents:
The world lost a champion for Oklahoma and education today. Wes Watkins was a trailblazer and an esteemed member of Congress. A proud OSU alumnus, Watkins was a visionary advocate for economic development on a global scale and for reducing global hunger. Oklahoma is better because Wes Watkins called it home, and we are thankful for his legacy of service to OSU and the state.
The Wes Watkins Center for International Trade Development stands as a testament to his efforts to position Oklahoma in the global economy, and his legacy of leadership is embedded in the countless students and faculty he inspired.
As a lifelong supporter of OSU, he remained deeply engaged with the university, earning induction into the OSU Hall of Fame and serving as a fixture in the Sea of Orange Homecoming Parade for decades.
On behalf of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, we extend our deepest condolences to the Watkins family during this difficult time.