Oklahoma State University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Oklahoma State University has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, operations, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to research and education, Oklahoma State University fosters an environment of academic excellence and community engagement, shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge across diverse fields.

Leadership Roles at Oklahoma State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mason Thea
  • Chief Financial Officer - Kenny Shaw
  • Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP - Jason Ramsey
  • President, The Almighty S (She) - Kierra Rago-Peters
  • President - Clare Mathes
  • President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete - Maddie Meiner
  • President Oklahoma State Hockey - Colleen Harvey
  • President - Nancy Tucker
  • Chief Information Officer - Janice Hightower
  • Financial Assistant I - Katie Krehbiel
  • Mason Thea - Chief Executive Officer

    Mason Thea, the Chief Executive Officer at Oklahoma State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and institutional advancement. The Chief Executive Officer guides all academic and administrative units, ensuring alignment with the university's mission of research, teaching, and public service. This leadership position involves fostering collaborations with external stakeholders, including government bodies and industry partners, to enhance the university's impact and reach. The Chief Executive Officer oversees the development and execution of long-term institutional goals, driving innovation in educational delivery and research initiatives. Mason Thea ensures the university maintains its standing as a premier land-grant institution, adapting to evolving educational landscapes and societal needs. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to resource allocation and strategic planning, securing the university's financial health and operational efficiency for sustained growth and academic excellence.

    Kenny Shaw - Chief Financial Officer

    Kenny Shaw, the Chief Financial Officer at Oklahoma State University, manages the institution's comprehensive financial operations and fiscal health. The Chief Financial Officer oversees budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This leadership role is vital for allocating resources effectively to support academic programs, research endeavors, and campus development initiatives. Kenny Shaw directs the financial strategies that enable the university to meet its long-term objectives while navigating complex funding environments. The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for financial reporting, compliance with regulations, and managing investments to maximize returns and minimize risk. By maintaining strong financial controls and transparent reporting, Kenny Shaw ensures the university's financial integrity and its capacity to invest in future growth and educational excellence.

    Jason Ramsey - Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP

    Jason Ramsey, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP at Oklahoma State University, directs the operational efficiency and strategic execution across all non-academic functions. The Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP oversees facilities management, campus services, human resources, and auxiliary enterprises, ensuring seamless daily operations. This position is crucial for optimizing resource utilization and enhancing the overall campus experience for students, faculty, and staff. Jason Ramsey drives initiatives to improve operational processes, implement best practices, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. The Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP collaborates with other executive leaders to align operational strategies with the university's broader academic and research goals. By managing critical infrastructure and support services, Jason Ramsey ensures a productive and supportive environment conducive to learning and discovery.

    Kierra Rago-Peters - President, The Almighty S (She)

    Kierra Rago-Peters, the President, The Almighty S (She) at Oklahoma State University, leads specific strategic initiatives and represents key stakeholder groups. The President, The Almighty S (She) focuses on advancing particular academic or student-focused programs, ensuring their alignment with the university's core mission. This leadership role involves fostering engagement with student bodies and advisory committees to gather insights and drive targeted improvements. Kierra Rago-Peters champions initiatives designed to enhance the student experience and support academic success. The President, The Almighty S (She) works to build consensus and drive progress on critical campus priorities, ensuring diverse perspectives are integrated into institutional planning. Kierra Rago-Peters's leadership contributes to the university's commitment to holistic student development and academic achievement.

    Clare Mathes - President

    Clare Mathes, the President at Oklahoma State University, spearheads critical academic and administrative divisions, driving institutional excellence. The President oversees the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of assigned departments, ensuring they contribute significantly to the university's educational and research objectives. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in curriculum development and academic programming, enhancing the learning environment for students. Clare Mathes collaborates with faculty and staff to promote scholarly activities and advance the university's reputation in higher education. The President is instrumental in developing and implementing policies that support academic integrity and student success. Clare Mathes's leadership ensures that key university functions operate cohesively, supporting the overarching mission of providing high-quality education and impactful research.

    Maddie Meiner - President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete

    Maddie Meiner, the President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete at Oklahoma State University, bridges student leadership with institutional governance. The President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete advocates for student interests, ensuring their perspectives inform university policies and decisions. This dual role involves active participation in advisory committees and student organizations, fostering a dynamic campus community. Maddie Meiner champions initiatives that enhance student life, academic support, and athletic engagement. The President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete works to promote collaboration between students, faculty, and administration, driving positive change. By representing student voices and contributing to athletic programs, Maddie Meiner enhances the holistic university experience and supports the institution's commitment to student success.

    Colleen Harvey - President Oklahoma State Hockey

    Colleen Harvey, the President Oklahoma State Hockey at Oklahoma State University, directs the strategic development and operational management of the university's hockey program. The President Oklahoma State Hockey oversees team performance, athlete recruitment, and program sustainability, ensuring competitive success and adherence to university standards. This leadership role involves fostering a strong team culture, managing budgets, and coordinating with athletic department officials. Colleen Harvey is dedicated to enhancing the student-athlete experience, promoting academic achievement alongside athletic excellence. The President Oklahoma State Hockey works to build community support and engagement for the hockey program, strengthening its presence within the university and beyond. Colleen Harvey's leadership ensures the continued growth and success of Oklahoma State Hockey.

    Nancy Tucker - President

    Nancy Tucker, the President at Oklahoma State University, leads significant academic and administrative functions, driving institutional progress. The President oversees the strategic planning and execution within designated university divisions, ensuring alignment with the institution's core values and objectives. This role is pivotal in fostering an environment that supports cutting-edge research and innovative teaching methodologies. Nancy Tucker collaborates with university leadership to enhance academic programs and student support services, promoting a culture of continuous improvement. The President is committed to advancing the university's mission by strengthening its academic offerings and expanding its research capabilities. Nancy Tucker's leadership ensures that key operational areas function effectively, contributing to the university's reputation for academic excellence and scholarly achievement.

    Janice Hightower - Chief Information Officer

    Janice Hightower, the Chief Information Officer at Oklahoma State University, architects the institution's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. The Chief Information Officer oversees the management of all IT services, including network operations, cybersecurity, and data management, ensuring robust and secure systems for students, faculty, and staff. This role is critical in implementing innovative technological solutions that support academic research, enhance learning experiences, and streamline administrative processes. Janice Hightower drives the adoption of new technologies, from cloud computing to advanced analytics, to maintain a competitive edge in higher education. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with various departments to identify technological needs and develop tailored solutions, fostering a culture of digital literacy and innovation across the campus. By ensuring the reliability and scalability of IT resources, the Chief Information Officer underpins the university's operational continuity and its capacity for future technological advancements.

    Katie Krehbiel - Financial Assistant I

    Katie Krehbiel, the Financial Assistant I at Oklahoma State University, provides essential support for the university's financial operations. The Financial Assistant I assists with processing financial transactions, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with financial procedures. This role is critical in supporting the efficiency of the finance department, contributing to the smooth functioning of fiscal management across the institution. Katie Krehbiel handles day-to-day financial tasks, including accounts payable and receivable, and supports budget tracking efforts. The Financial Assistant I works closely with the Chief Financial Officer and other finance team members to ensure accuracy and timeliness in all financial reporting. Katie Krehbiel's diligent work underpins the financial integrity and operational effectiveness of Oklahoma State University.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Oklahoma State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Oklahoma State University?
    Oklahoma State University is led by Mason Thea (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kenny Shaw (Chief Financial Officer) and Jason Ramsey (Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP).
    Who is part of Oklahoma State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Oklahoma State University includes leaders such as Mason Thea (Chief Executive Officer), Kenny Shaw (Chief Financial Officer), Jason Ramsey (Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Oklahoma State University have?
    Oklahoma State University has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Oklahoma State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Oklahoma State University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP, President, The Almighty S (She), President.