Honoring 10 Historic Years
President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis celebrate a decade of excellence at OSU
V. Burns Hargis was unanimously chosen by the Oklahoma State University/A&M Board of Regents as the 18th president of Oklahoma State University in December 2007 and took office on March 10, 2008. Since that time, President Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis have created a campus culture of collaboration, innovation, wellness and success. During Hargis’ presidency, OSU has set historic enrollment and fundraising records, with pledges and cash surpassing the Branding Success campaign $1 billion goal nearly two years ahead of schedule. The funds have provided student scholarships, faculty endowments and funding support for much-needed facilities and vital programs. A firm believer in the power of imagination and collaboration, President Hargis has been guided by a bold vision of a modern landgrant university that cuts across disciplines to better prepare students for success. As OSU is one of the nation’s most comprehensive land-grant university systems, taking charge of it has been no small task. President Hargis has support from OSU First Cowgirl Ann Hargis, who partners with him on activities with students, faculty, alumni and donors. You can often find her giving students rides to class in her orange golf cart, “Clementine.” The couple also take great pride in making OSU America’s Healthiest Campus® and being members of Pete’s Pet Posse with their dog, Scruff.
PHOTO / GARY LAWSON
PHOTO / PHIL SHOCKLEY
10
SPRING 2018
Highlights 2007
OSU/A&M Regents unanimously choose
V. Burns Hargis as OSU president
December 4, 2007 V. Burns Hargis is named 18th president of Oklahoma State University. “Burns Hargis will do a great job leading Oklahoma State University,” said Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry. “He’s well respected in both the public and private sectors and has the vision and intellect to take OSU to even greater heights in the state’s second century. More than anything, Burns loves his alma mater, and he will work harder than anyone to see that it succeeds at all levels. I think he will be a perfect fit for OSU.”