Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson’s Investiture: A New Era for Langston University
Langston University is poised for a historic celebration as it formally installs Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson as its 17th President. Appointed to the role on April 15, 2024, by the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma Agricultural & Mechanical Colleges, Dr. Jackson has already demonstrated unwavering leadership and dedication to advancing the university’s academic excellence, student success, and commitment to its land-grant mission.
A Journey Rooted in Service and Leadership
Dr. Jackson’s appointment as president follows a successful tenure as interim president, during which she maintained continuity, built institutional momentum, and strengthened the Langston community. With an extensive background in higher education, Dr. Jackson has cultivated a legacy of excellence, previously serving as Associate Vice President and later Vice President for Student Success at Langston University. Before joining Langston, she spent over a decade at Louisiana State University in Shreveport, holding faculty and administrative positions.
Beyond her academic and administrative roles, Dr. Jackson’s commitment to service is evident in her involvement with various boards, including the Board of Visitors for Howard University’s Graduate School and the Edmond Public Schools Foundation. She is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
A Week of Celebration: Rooted in Pride, Rising with Purpose
Langston University will host a week-long series of events from March 8-15, 2025, leading up to the official investiture ceremony on March 14. Themed “Rooted in Pride, Rising with Purpose,” the inauguration activities reflect Langston’s proud history and its ambitious future under Dr. Jackson’s leadership.
Key Events of the Investiture Week:
- Community Service Initiatives (March 8) – A day dedicated to giving back through service projects in Langston City.
- Alumni and Faculty Mixer (March 9) – Connecting Langston University faculty and Oklahoma City-area alumni.
- Lunch with the President (March 10) – A special campus dining event featuring a menu inspired by Dr. Jackson.
- Land Grant Mission Lecture (March 11) – An insightful discussion on Langston’s impact as a land-grant institution.
- Founders’ Day Convocation (March 13) – A tribute to Langston’s legacy, bringing together students, faculty, and alumni.
- Investiture Ceremony (March 14) – The formal installation of Dr. Jackson, featuring a distinguished academic procession and the unveiling of the Presidential Bust.
- Tulsa’s Black Wall Street Tour (March 15) – A visit to Greenwood Rising, highlighting Langston’s deep historical connections.
- Inauguration Celebration (March 15) – A grand formal event to close the week with elegance and festivity.