News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2006
Contact: Ashley Gibson
Director, Public Relations
Phone: 405.466.3484
angibson@lunet.edu
Langston President Celebrated, Honored at Inaugural Ceremony
Dr. JoAnn W. Haysbert was installed as the university’s 15th and first female president
Langston, Okla._ Officials from across the state of Oklahoma heaped accolades upon Dr.
JoAnn W. Haysbert, as she formally accepted her position as Langston University’s 15th and first
female president at her inauguration on Saturday.
President Haysbert is also the first African-American female to be president of a
university in the state of Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry told attendees that he was “truly honored and privileged
to join in the celebration.”
“Langston University is respected for preparing future generations for life,” Henry said.
“And, the future of this university is undoubtedly in good hands.”
Mayors from surrounding towns were also a part of the ceremony, as well as members of
the Oklahoma State Regents for Oklahoma State University and A&M Colleges. Regent Joe
Hall, who presided over the inauguration, said President Haysbert is the best choice for the
university.
“The facts spoke for themselves,” Hall said referring to President Haysbert’s interview
process. “And, the best rose to the top.”
During her inaugural address, President Haysbert told attendees that greatness “is the
future of Langston University,” as she outlined the new vision for the institution_ which includes
a more student-centered campus, more programs of distinction, and more capital growth projects.
“I thank you all for being here today with me as I experience the extraordinary honor of
being installed as the fifteenth and first female president of Langston University,” Pres.
Haysbert said on Saturday. “I only ask that you, whether in spirit or in person, commit
yourselves to joining with us as we move Langston University from Excellence to Greatness.”
Dr. William Harvey, president of Hampton University and the inaugural guest speaker,
said President Haysbert “is a highly disciplined, ethical and completely trustworthy individual.”
Before coming to Langston, President Haysbert served as provost at Hampton University
under the leadership of Dr. Harvey.
“I’ve said this before: Dr. Haysbert, I trust you with my life,” Harvey said. “You are the
best of the best.”
“And, on behalf of Hampton University, we want you, Langston University, to take good care of
President Haysbert, because she truly is a gem.”
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