The Cowboy family marked the 10th anniversary of OSU President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis with a cordial celebration on the Student Union Plaza in March.

Unanimously chosen by the Oklahoma State University/A&M Board of Regents as OSU’s 18th president, Hargis took office on March 10, 2008. Since that time, he and Ann have created a campus culture of collaboration, innovation, wellness and success, that includes happy barks from a pet therapy program the First Cowgirl has been instrumental in advancing.

Known for setting historic enrollment and fundraising records, the Burns Hargis’ presidency has inspired donors to surpass a $1 billion Branding Success campaign goal, which finished nearly two years ahead of schedule. The funds raised provide ongoing student scholarships, faculty endowments and support for much-needed facilities and other vital programs. He’s also overseeing a construction boom that has transformed the OSU campus for more competitive academics and athletics.

Hargis, who holds degrees in accounting from OSU and law from the University of Oklahoma, has advanced a bold vision that’s building a modern land-grant university across academic disciplines to better prepare students for success. He is the second OSU graduate to lead his alma mater, joining Oliver S. Willham, who served from 1952 to 1966.

Before serving as president, Hargis had a long and distinguished legal and business career, with active civic and philanthropic leadership on several fronts. He is familiar to many Oklahomans for the political perspective and wit he offered as a commentator on the award-winning television program “Flashpoint.”

The campus community will be forever grateful for the strength and caring our First Couple provides, respectfully and thoughtfully guiding us through times of tragedy and serving as our biggest cheerleaders as they share our achievements.