Jim Hess appointed 20th President of Oklahoma State University

Dr. Jim Hess has been officially appointed as the 20th president of Oklahoma State University (OSU) after serving as interim president since February, following the resignation of Dr. Kayse Shrum. The OSU A&M Board of Regents praised Hess for his steady leadership, deep understanding of the university's land-grant mission, and commitment to student success, citing his positive impact and ability to restore stability and connections within the OSU community. Hess brings over four decades of experience in higher education, including significant roles at OSU's Center for Health Sciences, and was inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame. Regents emphasized that Hess’s performance as interim leader provided unique insight and confidence, making an external search unnecessary. Hess expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and reiterated his dedication to students, faculty, staff, and the broader university community. He has been appointed to a three-year term as president.