Burns Hargis is living proof of the promise of OSU. An OSU graduate — the first to lead OSU since 1966 — he has earned a distinguished reputation for effective, passionate leadership in private enterprise and public life. When he began his role as OSU’s 18^th president on March 10, 2008, President Hargis wasted no time in making strides toward the bold future he envisioned for this university.

“Oklahoma State University is in the midst of transformation into a premier leadership institution — a place of learning, creativity, innovation and broad global benefit,” he said. “Only one thing holds us back from a position of prominence: a lack of resources. The obstacles before us are in our power to overcome. And the possibilities are exhilarating.”

President Hargis is joined by honorary campaign chair T. Boone Pickens and campaign co-chairs Ross and Billie McKnight in leading this remarkable effort to raise $1 billion in new philanthropic investments.