EPISODE 041: BURNS HARGIS | OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

The Leadership Crucible Podcast

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Burns Hargis' journey is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. From facing the challenges of being a redheaded youth with an uncommon name to navigating diverse career paths, his story is one of triumphs and unyielding determination.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover the leadership insights of Burns Hargis, former president of Oklahoma State University, and gain valuable perspectives on leading in academia.
Learn effective strategies for adapting to change and diverse environments, essential skills for successful leadership in the academic world.
Explore the crucial role of university fundraising and campus development in shaping the future of education and leadership.
Embrace the importance of a growth mindset and work ethic in leadership, and unlock the keys to personal and professional development in academia.
My special guest is Burns Hargis
Burns Hargis, the 18th president of Oklahoma State University, led the institution to significant milestones during his tenure. His strategic leadership resulted in record enrollment and fundraising achievements, surpassing the $1 billion campaign goal and raising over 2.2 billion in private support. Hargis' extensive background in law, finance, and business, coupled with his instrumental role in transforming the university's campus, positions him as a valuable asset for university leaders seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities and foster substantial advancements within the academic realm.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Leadership Crucible Podcast Overview
00:01:30 - Burns Hargis' Leadership Accomplishments at Oklahoma State University
00:03:29 - Burns Hargis' Personal Background and Early Influences
00:09:01 - Transition from Law to Business and Involvement in Politics
00:17:55 - Challenges of Non-Academic Leadership in Higher Education
00:18:49 - Challenges of Being an Academic Leader
00:22:43 - Importance of Process in Academics
00:30:42 - Lessons in Accountability and Work Ethic
00:33:23 - Making a Positive Difference
00:36:27 - Acts of Kindness
Bio:
Burns Hargis was named the 18th President of Oklahoma State University and the OSU System in December 2007 and took office March 10, 2008. On October 23, 2020, Hargis retired as president on July 1, 2021.
Hargis oversaw one of the nation’s most comprehensive land-grant university systems with more than 35,000 students, 7,000 employees, and campuses located in Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Okmulgee.
As president, Hargis enthusiastically united the broad OSU community of students, employees, alumni, and donors behind his bold vision of a modern land-grant university that cuts across disciplines to better prepare students for success. The results have been historic.
He guided OSU to record enrollment and record fundraising, with pledges and cash surpassing the $1 billion Branding Success campaign goal nearly two years ahead of schedule. In total, OSU raised more than $2.2 billion in private support and added more than 82,000 new donors during Hargis’ time as president.
OSU’s giving has focused on student scholarships, faculty and other vital resources and programs. Hargis also oversaw a construction boom that transformed the OSU campus to be more competitive in academics and athletics. Most recently, the crescent-shaped business building and spectacular McKnight Center for the Performing Arts are new campus icons. Guided by Hargis’ vision, the OSU campus has never looked more beautiful.
Hargis and his wife, First Cowgirl Ann, were active across campus, interacting regularly with OSU’s diverse student body. Strong proponents of wellness, they led OSU’s initiative as America’s Healthiest Campus. They also took OSU’s story of success to alumni around the world.
He has held several leadership positions related to intercollegiate athletics, serving on NCAA, Football Bowl Championship and Big 12 Conference boards.
Hargis, who holds degrees in accounting from Oklahoma State University and in law from the University of Oklahoma, is the second OSU graduate to lead the university as president. Before being named OSU President, Hargis had a long and distinguished legal and business career.
Hargis received the state’s highest honor when he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2009. He and his wife, Ann, have two children and three grandchildren.