Dr. Rodney Hanley was formally installed as the 20th president of Northeastern State University at an investiture ceremony Friday afternoon.
Hanley is a first-generation college student whose life’s work has focused on making higher education accessible to as many students as possible.
“To come from a working-class family as a first-generation college student, to join the military as a way to pay for college, to have worked my way up from student, to postdoc, to professor, to dean, to provost and now being entrusted to lead this great institution—it’s a powerful statement about the importance and relevance of universities as places of opportunity and advancement,” Hanley said.
Prior to his appointment at NSU, Hanley served in various administrative and academic roles at the University of North Dakota, Lakehead University and the University of Winnipeg. He also served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Fisk University and most recently as president at Lake Superior State University.
With decades of experience in higher education and a strong background in strategic planning, Hanley brings a wealth of expertise to his role in NSU’s highest office. His extensive knowledge encompasses areas such as student and faculty relations, community engagement, tribal relations, financial management, enrollment strategies and fundraising efforts.
Hanley was named NSU’s 20th president by the Regional University System of Oklahoma Regents last summer and began serving in his new role on Aug. 1, 2023. He is joined in Tahlequah by his wife Sara and sons, Harry and Edward.
The presidential investiture ceremony was led by NSU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Carla Swearingen, as master of ceremonies. Remarks were presented by representatives from across the university and state.
“It is just an absolute delight to welcome to the state of Oklahoma, a talented academic leader like President Hanley,” Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education Chancellor Allison D. Garrett said. “I look forward to working closely with President Hanley in the years to come, and with all of you here at NSU, as we continue to work to produce amazing graduates for the state of Oklahoma.”
Cherokee Nation Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner spoke on the importance of NSU and Cherokee Nation’s shared history of providing higher education to the region. He noted the occasion as not only marking the change in leadership for NSU, but also reaffirming the enduring partnership between the institution and Cherokee Nation.
“Together, Dr. Hanley, let’s celebrate this new era,” Warner said. “Our two entities are forever bound, and so let us make that relationship stronger. We share your commitment to education, to preservation, to progress. Together, we can light the way for a brighter future for all of northeast Oklahoma.”
Other guest speakers at the ceremony included Dr. Nathan Green, NSU Faculty Council President; Darin Kight, NSU Staff Council Chair; Asa Robbins, Northeastern Student Government Association President; Suzanne Myers, NSU Alumni Association President; Chrissi Nimmo, NSU Foundation Chair; and Jane McDermott, RUSO Chair.
McDermott also led the presidential charge and, with the help of Hanley’s wife and youngest son, bestowed the presidential medallion on NSU’s new president. The medallion serves as a symbol of the rights, responsibilities and privileges Hanley holds in this position.
In his remarks, Hanley laid out his vision for the university focusing on goals that include expanding programmatic and course offerings that contribute to the economy of Oklahoma, a recommitment to first-generation and financially disadvantaged students, a continuation of steadfast partnerships with tribal nations, including the Cherokee Nation, and lastly a rededication to the institution’s academic mission and academic excellence.
“I am filled with gratitude for the trust you have placed in me to lead this incredible institution,” Hanley said. “With your support and collaboration, I am confident that we will not only uphold the rich legacy of Northeastern State University, but we will write a new and inspiring chapter in a storied history.”
Attendees gathered in the University Center for a reception following the ceremony.
