New Oklahoma State University President Dr. Kayse Shrum officially started the job on Thursday.
Shrum, former president of the OSU Center for Health Sciences and a key figure in the state’s early pandemic response, is OSU’s 19th president, the third OSU graduate and first woman in the role. In a video released by the university this week, Shrum said she’s been on a listening tour the past three months and will continue listening to faculty and students’ ideas.
"I can assure you of my commitment to creating a modern-day land grant institution with a mission focused on top-tier research impacting everyday lives and addressing the most pressing needs of our society," Shrum said.
Shrum has named three members of her leadership team: Interim Senior Vice President for Executive Affairs Kyle Wray, Interim Senior Vice President for Health Affairs Johnny Stephens and Chief Legal Officer Brandee Hancock. All are subject to board approval. Regents' next meeting is in September.
In a news conference on her first official day on the job on Thursday, former Cowgirls pitcher Shrum introduced Chad Weiberg as OSU’s new athletics director.
"Some of my fondest memories are on the softball field competing with my teammates, and that camaraderie has lasted over 30 years. So, it's fitting that this is my first official announcement as the president," Shrum said.
Weiberg spent four years as Athletics Director Mike Holder's deputy. Holder retired after 16 years in the role.
"There is, no doubt, a lot of change taking place that is not just here on our campus but throughout college athletics with continued COVID protocols; name, image and likeness; transfer rules; and possible expanded playoffs," Weiberg said. "So, it is more important than ever that we innovate to take on the challenges of our time and to seize the opportunities."
Weiberg said he’ll press forward with a facilities master plan, with a wrestling training center, softball stadium and indoor track as high priorities.
