Rose State College President Dr. Jeanie Webb Announces Retirement, Marking the End of a Decade of Transformative Leadership Published December 5, 2024

Dr. Jeanie Webb, President of Rose State College and the institution’s first female president, has announced her plan to retire effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Webb, who has served as the college’s seventh president since 2013, leaves behind a legacy of growth and innovation that has reshaped the college’s role in Oklahoma's higher education landscape.

“Education is the foundation for all things wonderful; it opens doors and gives people a chance to realize their potential and fulfill their dreams,” Webb stated. “Serving the students of Oklahoma and bridging gaps between institutions over my 43 years in higher education has been an honor. As I focus on completing key projects, I am looking forward to spending more time with my family. I am profoundly grateful for the privilege of serving as president of this remarkable college.”

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Webb led Rose State College through a period of unprecedented growth, including a substantial increase in enrollment, enhanced infrastructure, and the introduction of Oklahoma’s first on-campus housing at an urban community college. Under her leadership, the college launched a state-of-the-art Student Union, creating a vibrant hub for campus life. Webb also oversaw the approval of a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity, establishing Rose State as one of the few two-year colleges in Oklahoma to offer a four-year degree. Most recently, the college continues to lead in innovative education by offering a degree in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning – one of only three such programs in Oklahoma and the only one offered by a community college, positioning Rose State as a pioneer in emerging technologies.

Dr. Webb’s tenure has been marked by robust partnerships with Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma’s business community, and regional higher education institutions. Her workforce initiatives have bridged critical gaps, driving economic development and supporting local industries. Under her guidance, Rose State secured $22 million in grants and fundraising for campus enhancements, including a $900,000 EDA grant and a landmark $1.3 million donation to the Tanenbaum Aerospace and Cybersecurity Center. Her recent efforts also brought in $9.4 million in ARPA funds, empowering Rose State to double its contributions to Oklahoma’s nursing workforce.

“Dr. Webb has shown an unwavering commitment to enhancing educational access and quality for students in Oklahoma and beyond,” commented Greg Smith, Chairman of the Rose State Board of Regents. “Her leadership has strengthened Rose State as a resilient, forward-thinking institution, and I am confident that the momentum of excellence and Rose State’s reputation of agility for serving workforce development needs will continue as part of her wonderful legacy.”

Before her presidency, Dr. Webb served as Rose State’s Vice President of Student Affairs and Associate Vice President of External Affairs. Her career in higher education began as the Dean of Northeastern Oklahoma State University, where she cultivated a commitment to academic excellence and student success.

As Rose State College enters this next chapter, the Board of Regents will conduct a comprehensive search for Dr. Webb’s successor, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity of leadership.