Rose State College President Travis Hurst delivered his first State of Rose State address with a powerful message drawn from the Avett Brothers: “Decide what to be and go be it.” His address signaled a bold new era of growth, innovation, and community commitment under his leadership.
Faculty, Students, and Leaders Reflect on Strength of Rose State
Faculty Senate President and General Education Mathematics Coordinator Ann Smith reflected on her 25-year journey with Rose State—from student to faculty leader—emphasizing the College’s long-standing mission to meet students where they are. She praised President Hurst’s collaborative approach during his first 90 days: “The state of Rose State is strong. Not because of any one person, but because we are a community. We are moving forward side by side.”
Student Senate President Dravin Henderson echoed this sentiment, sharing his own story of transition and growth at Rose State College: “Change can feel intimidating, but President Hurst has brought new energy and excitement for the future. Rose is not just a place to take classes—it’s a place where we can thrive.”
Board of Regents Chairman Bill Croak introduced Hurst, commenting on his dozen years of service to Rose State and his decision to replace a traditional investiture ceremony with the State of Rose State address: “That decision reflects the kind of leader he is—one who places progress above pageantry and service above ceremony.”
The address drew leaders from across Oklahoma, including higher education colleagues, state officials, and business leaders. Distinguished guests included members of the Rose State Board of Regents, past presidents, government representatives, superintendents, Chamber of Commerce leaders, and Rose State College Foundation members. Their presence accentuated the wide-reaching impact of Rose State’s mission.
A Vision for the Future: Vision 2035
President Hurst shared his vision through the College’s Vision 2035 framework, anchored by four pillars:
- The Student Experience – Elevating support to ensure academic and personal success.
- Campus Infrastructure – Modernizing facilities to meet future growth.
- Academics & Workforce Development – Expanding programs to prepare students for high-demand careers in artificial intelligence, aerospace, biotechnology, and beyond.
- Bridges Across Campus – Strengthening partnerships across the College and the broader community.
President Hurst emphasized investments in technology, new facilities—including a planned state-of-the-art STEM building—and expanded workforce programs in areas such as artificial intelligence, aerospace, and biotechnology. He also reaffirmed Rose State’s commitment to student success through scholarships, athletics, and a culture of belonging. “These are not just strategic points on a chart,” President Hurst said. “They are promises to our students, our community, and to each other.”
President Hurst emphasized Rose State’s ongoing investments in technology, scholarships, athletics, and a culture of belonging. He concluded with gratitude to the Rose State community: “To everyone else who calls Rose State home—thank you: thank you for your passion, thank you for your belief in our mission, and thank you for your commitment to our students.”
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