Dr. Melissa Dreyer, a veteran educator and leader of the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology community, has been selected to serve as the new dean of the School of Technology, Arts, Sciences & Health (STASH).

Dreyer was promoted to lead STASH following an extensive search to fill the position. She previously served as the assistant dean of the Division of Leadership & Academic Foundations in STASH.

She said becoming STASH dean is both a professional honor and a personal privilege.

“After more than two decades at OSUIT, I have had the opportunity to grow as an educator, leader, and advocate for students while contributing to the university's continued success. OSUIT's mission of providing career-focused education that transforms lives has guided my work throughout my career, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead a school that plays such an important role in that mission,” Dreyer said.

“I look forward to working alongside our outstanding faculty and staff to build on STASH's strong foundation, support student success and continue providing high-quality courses and programs that prepare graduates to excel in their careers and serve their communities.”

Dreyer was chosen from more than 40 applicants. The finalists were welcomed to the OSUIT campus for in-person interviews and open community forums during the week of July 6.

Faculty and staff feedback played an important role in the OSUIT Hiring Committee's decision to recommend Dreyer for the dean position to Provost Richie Roberts.

Feedback from faculty and staff who attended the forum emphasized Dreyer's readiness to lead, highlighting her deep institutional knowledge, established relationships across campus and the stability her leadership offers STASH during a time of transition.

”Dr. Dreyer’s 25 years of service to OSUIT give her a remarkable understanding of our institution, our people and the students we serve. Throughout her career, she has been a steadfast advocate for both faculty and students, and she brings to this role a deep commitment to their success," Dr. Roberts said. "I am confident her experience, collaborative leadership and genuine passion for OSUIT will serve STASH and our institution exceptionally well.”

Dreyer started working at OSUIT when she was hired as a communications instructor in August 2001. She has spent more than two decades teaching OSUIT students and serving the campus on a variety of committees that support academic innovation, curriculum development, assessment and institutional growth.

She advanced into the role of assistant dean of the Division of Leadership & Academic Foundations in 2024, providing leadership for academic programs, faculty development and student success initiatives.

"Dr. Dreyer brings trusted relationships and an unwavering commitment to student success," said Dr. Heather Ortiz, vice provost. "The campus community made its confidence in her leadership clear, and I'm excited for what's ahead for STASH under her direction.”

Dreyer said the School of Technology, Arts, Sciences & Health is essential to OSUIT’s mission because it provides the academic foundation that supports every student, regardless of their career path.

“Through general education, STASH helps students develop the communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that complement their technical coursework. The school also prepares future educators, chefs, healthcare professionals, business leaders, and skilled professionals who meet workforce needs,” she said. “By collaborating with technical programs and promoting academic excellence, STASH plays a vital role in fulfilling OSUIT's mission of preparing graduates for successful careers and lifelong learning.”

Dreyer said her goal is to build on STASH’s strengths while creating new opportunities for students, faculty and the school as a whole.

“I want to continue strengthening our academic programs, expand partnerships with business, industry and educational organizations, and ensure our curriculum remains relevant to the needs of today's workforce. I also want to foster a collaborative environment where faculty are supported, innovation is encouraged and continuous improvement is part of our culture,” Dreyer said.

“Most importantly, I want every STASH student to graduate with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in their careers and continue learning throughout their lives.”