Oklahoma State University Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to research and education, Oklahoma State University fosters an environment of academic excellence and innovation, impacting students and communities across Oklahoma and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Oklahoma State University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Mason Thea
  • Chief Financial Officer - Kenny Shaw
  • Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP - Jason Ramsey
  • President - Nancy Tucker
  • President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete - Maddie Meiner
  • President Oklahoma State Hockey - Colleen Harvey
  • Chief Information Officer - Darlene Hightower
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Erin Petrotta
  • Med Director - Joann Ryan
  • 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. Thea spearheads initiatives focused on enhancing the university's academic standing and research capabilities, aligning departmental goals with long-term institutional objectives. This leadership role involves fostering key relationships with stakeholders, including government bodies, industry partners, and alumni, to secure resources and support for university growth. By driving innovation in educational delivery and research, Mason Thea ensures Oklahoma State University remains at the forefront of higher education, contributing significantly to economic development and societal progress within Oklahoma and nationally. Thea's strategic direction guides all facets of university operations, from academic program development to campus infrastructure improvements, solidifying the institution's commitment to excellence.

    Kenny Shaw - Chief Financial Officer

    Kenny Shaw, the Chief Financial Officer at Oklahoma State University, manages the institution's fiscal health and financial planning. Shaw oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, treasury, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This executive function involves developing financial strategies that support the university's academic and research missions, managing endowments, and securing funding through diverse revenue streams. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and transparency, Kenny Shaw ensures Oklahoma State University operates efficiently and effectively, allocating resources to maximize educational impact and research advancement. Shaw's financial acumen is vital for long-term institutional stability and growth, supporting strategic investments in faculty, facilities, and student success initiatives across the Stillwater campus and its extended learning environments.

    Jason Ramsey - Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP

    Jason Ramsey, the Chief Operating Officer & Senior VP at Oklahoma State University, oversees the daily operational functions and administrative services that support the university's core mission. Ramsey directs critical areas such as facilities management, campus safety, human resources, and auxiliary services, ensuring efficient and effective resource utilization. This senior leadership position involves optimizing operational processes to enhance the campus experience for students, faculty, and staff, while also managing large-scale capital projects and infrastructure development. By ensuring seamless operational execution, Jason Ramsey enables academic and research endeavors to flourish, contributing directly to the university's strategic goals and its commitment to serving the state of Oklahoma. Ramsey's leadership ensures the physical and administrative backbone of the university supports its educational and research objectives.

    Nancy Tucker - President

    Nancy Tucker, the President at Oklahoma State University, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire institution. Tucker champions the university's mission of education, research, and outreach, fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation. This pivotal role involves engaging with state legislators, university regents, and external partners to advance the institution's goals and secure necessary support. By guiding institutional policy and strategic planning, Nancy Tucker ensures Oklahoma State University effectively serves its students and the broader community, upholding its land-grant mission. Tucker's leadership is instrumental in shaping the university's future, driving initiatives that enhance its national and international standing in higher education and research.

    Maddie Meiner - President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete

    Maddie Meiner, the President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete at Oklahoma State University, represents student interests and contributes to advisory committee functions. Meiner bridges communication between the student body and university leadership, advocating for student needs and perspectives. This unique role involves active participation in athletic programs while also engaging in governance and policy discussions through advisory committees. By providing student insights, Maddie Meiner ensures that university decisions consider the student experience and academic well-being. Meiner's dual focus on athletics and leadership underscores a commitment to holistic student development and effective representation within the university structure, contributing to a vibrant campus community.

    Colleen Harvey - President Oklahoma State Hockey

    Colleen Harvey, the President Oklahoma State Hockey at Oklahoma State University, leads the university's ice hockey program. Harvey directs all aspects of the hockey team's operations, including recruitment, training, scheduling, and team management. This leadership position focuses on fostering athletic excellence, sportsmanship, and academic success among student-athletes. By building a competitive and well-managed hockey program, Colleen Harvey enhances the university's athletic profile and provides valuable experiences for student participants. Harvey's dedication ensures the continued development and success of Oklahoma State Hockey, contributing to the vibrant extracurricular life on campus and upholding the university's commitment to diverse student engagement.

    Darlene Hightower - Chief Information Officer

    Darlene Hightower, the Chief Information Officer at Oklahoma State University, architects and oversees the institution's comprehensive technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Hightower directs the implementation of advanced IT solutions that support academic research, student learning, and administrative efficiency across all university operations. This critical role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, ensuring data integrity, and driving digital transformation initiatives to enhance user experience for students, faculty, and staff. By championing technological innovation, Darlene Hightower ensures Oklahoma State University maintains a robust and secure digital environment, enabling cutting-edge research and accessible education. The CIO's leadership ensures seamless integration of technology, supporting the university's mission to serve the state and nation through education and discovery.

    Erin Petrotta - Chief Marketing Officer

    Erin Petrotta, the Chief Marketing Officer at Oklahoma State University, directs the university's brand strategy and external communications. Petrotta leads initiatives to enhance the university's reputation, attract prospective students, and engage alumni and the broader community. This role involves developing and executing comprehensive marketing and communication plans across digital, print, and broadcast media, highlighting academic achievements, research breakthroughs, and campus life. By shaping the university's narrative, Erin Petrotta ensures Oklahoma State University's value proposition is clearly communicated, fostering strong public perception and institutional pride. Petrotta's strategic vision drives recruitment efforts and strengthens stakeholder relationships, supporting the university's mission to serve Oklahoma and beyond through impactful education and research.

    Joann Ryan - Med Director

    Joann Ryan, the Med Director at Oklahoma State University, oversees the provision of medical services and health programs for the university community. Ryan directs the operations of student health services, ensuring comprehensive care, preventative health education, and timely medical support for students, faculty, and staff. This role involves managing medical staff, coordinating with external healthcare providers, and implementing health policies that promote well-being across campus. By prioritizing health and wellness, Joann Ryan ensures a supportive environment conducive to academic success and personal development. Ryan's leadership in medical direction is crucial for maintaining a healthy campus and responding effectively to the health needs of the Oklahoma State University population.

    Katie Krehbiel - Financial Assistant I

    Katie Krehbiel, the Financial Assistant I at Oklahoma State University, provides essential support for the university's financial operations. Krehbiel assists with processing financial transactions, maintaining accurate records, and supporting departmental budgeting processes. This role involves ensuring compliance with financial procedures and contributing to the efficient management of university funds. By diligently executing financial tasks, Katie Krehbiel supports the broader financial team in maintaining fiscal integrity and operational efficiency. Krehbiel's contributions are vital for the smooth functioning of financial services, enabling the university to allocate resources effectively towards its educational and research objectives.

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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, President & Student & Advisory Committee Athlete.