According to a press release from the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, Joseph Harroz Jr. was voted in unanimously as the university's 15th president.
“Joe Harroz is an exceptional leader,” said Gary Pierson, chair of the OU Board of Regents. “His deep devotion to OU and compelling vision for its future are precisely what the university needs. There’s no one better suited to lead OU.”
Harroz is a graduate from OU with a bachelor of arts in economics in 1989. He was formerly the Dean of the OU College of Law and has served as the interim president since May 2019.
“This is more than a promotion or a dream job to me,” Harroz said. “It’s a chance to pay back the debt I owe our university. OU changes lives every day. I know firsthand because it changed mine. I wouldn’t be who I am if not for the education my father – the son of Lebanese immigrants – received at OU, and the education that I also received from this extraordinary institution.”
“I am extremely pleased with the OU Board of Regents’ decision to appoint Joe Harroz as the university’s next president,” said Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt. “Joe is a devoted public servant and he has the leadership skills of a top chief executive. I am confident he will continue to lead OU successfully, ensuring its mission of service to state and society is fulfilled.”
While Harroz was the dean at OU College of Law, he led efforts to create new joint degree and certificate programs.
He also instituted a pro-bono service commitment for all law students.
Harroz launched the nation's first-ever law school Digital Initiative, with the hopes of preparing the students for success in the legal profession.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Apple and Android and Kindle devices.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
