Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology has named Dr. Richie Roberts its next provost and senior administrator following a nationwide search.

Roberts’ selection was guided by a search committee of OSUIT administrators, faculty, staff and students, which was assisted by national search firm Myers McRae.

"The entire OSU system shares a commitment to our students to not only provide the highest quality education in the classroom, but to prepare them for success after they graduate,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “As a three-time OSU graduate, Dr. Roberts understands that commitment well and is ready to help pave the way for the next generation of Cowboys.”

The Oklahoma State University A&M Board of Regents voted to confirm the appointment Friday during its regular meeting at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College.

“Dr. Roberts’ strong academic background and proven commitment to student success, along with his leadership in advancing world-class technical education programs, stood out during his interview,” said Dr. Jeanette Mendez, OSU provost and senior vice president.

“His deep roots at OSU and in the state, as well as his experience within land-grant institutions focused on technical education and training, make him the ideal leader for OSUIT.”

Roberts is a native of Lane, Oklahoma. A first-generation college student, he earned his associate degree at Murray State College in Tishomingo, Oklahoma. He went on to complete his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at OSU-Stillwater.

Prior to entering higher education, he worked as an agricultural education teacher and administrator in career and technical education. Following stints at North Carolina A&T State University and Louisiana State University, Roberts most recently served as head of the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education at New Mexico State University.

During his March 30 presentation at a candidate forum on the OSUIT campus, Roberts outlined his vision for the institute’s future.

“I’m eager to collaborate with the outstanding faculty and work alongside a strong administrative team to advance the shared mission of OSUIT,” said Roberts, who will be the sixth full-time administrator of OSUIT. “By strengthening workforce development and building meaningful partnerships, everything we do will be focused on ensuring every student succeeds, thrives and is well-prepared for the future.”

Dr. Ronna Vanderslice, vice-provost for academic affairs for the OSU System, provost of OSU-OKC and interim provost of OSUIT, expressed strong support for the appointment, noting Roberts’ experience in the priority aspects of OSUIT.

“This is an exciting time for OSUIT, and Dr. Roberts is the right leader to help us move forward. He brings the experience and strategic mindset needed to strengthen academic quality, expand workforce partnerships and ensure our programs continue to meet the needs of students and employers,” Vanderslice said. “We are excited to welcome him and look forward to the impact he will make for our students, faculty, staff and community.”

Roberts will begin his service at OSUIT on July 1.