Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson embodied her chosen inauguration week theme, “Rooted in Pride, Rising with Purpose,” as she reflected on the great legacy of Langston University and committed herself to leading the university forward during her Investiture Ceremony on Friday afternoon.
“This day is more than an investiture,” Dr. Jackson said. “It is a reflection of our collective journey and shared purpose.”
The ceremony symbolized the president’s acceptance of the responsibilities and authority of the office, and it marked the official installment of Dr. Jackson as the 17th President of Langston University. It featured a grand processional in academic regalia by LU faculty and guests from visiting institutions, performances from both the LU Concert Band and LU Concert Choir, and congratulatory remarks from community members, elected officials and members of the higher education community.
Dr. Dana Williams, dean of the Graduate School and a professor of African American literature at Howard University, gave the keynote address.
The focal point of the ceremony was when Dr. Jackson took the oath of office and formally assumed the mantle of President of Langston University.
“The symbols of office for the President of Langston University serve as tangible representations of the authority, responsibility and service entrusted to this distinguished role,” said Dr. Alonzo Peterson, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “These symbols connect the legacy of Langston University to its future and reaffirm the enduring principles of leadership and scholarship.”
Dr. Jackson accepted the Presidential Chain of Office and Presidential Mace. In accepting these items and taking the oath of office, she promised to uphold and preserve the mission and values of Langston University, to serve with integrity, and to lead with a commitment to academic excellence, student success and innovative research.
She reflected on the legacy and accomplishments of those who came before her, from the townspeople of Langston who raised the money to buy the land and open Langston University to more recent figures like Ada Sipuel Fisher and Clara Luper. Dr. Jackson acknowledged that as a Historically Black College or University, Dear Langston is not just a place where people learn but where they are also equipped to lead. She promised to be a tireless advocate for Langston University and other HBCUs, and she reiterated that her vision for her presidency includes continuous progress and strategic positioning for Langston University’s future.
The Oklahoma A&M Board of Regents appointed Dr. Jackson as president in April 2024 after she served as interim president for a year following the retirement of Dr. Kent Smith, 16th President of Langston University. Dr. Jackson had previously served as Vice President for Academic Affairs, Associate Vice President for Student Success, and Dean and professor for the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences. Dr. Jackson is the second woman to hold the title of President of Langston University.
“I accept this charge of leadership with deep gratitude and an unshakable resolve,” Dr. Jackson said. “Together, we will rise, we will lead, and we will ensure that Langston University’s legacy endures for generations to come.”
Be the first to comment on "Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson formally invested as 17th President of Langston University"