Image of campus at dusk facing the Library from where the Presidents' busts are located

Office of the President

Biography

Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson currently serves as the 17th President of Langston University. She was appointed to the leadership position on April 15, 2024, by the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma Agricultural & Mechanical Colleges. As president of Dear Langston, Dr. Jackson is the institution’s chief executive officer. She is focused on advancing the University’s academic programs, providing a memorable campus experience, and embracing the institution’s land-grant mission.

Prior to being appointed president, Dr. Jackson served as interim president from April 21, 2023, until her current appointment. During her tenure, Dr. Jackson successfully built momentum while maintaining continuity and stability. Her unwavering commitment to Dear Langston’s mission and her ability to navigate critical transitions were commendable.

Under her guidance and visionary leadership, Langston University will excel and reach new heights. Possessing extensive academic administrative experience, Dr. Jackson has a strong record of teaching, service, and scholarship. Her association with Langston University began in 2014 as Dean and Professor for the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences where she provided strategic leadership for a diverse set of academic programs o­ffered in Langston, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.

During the next decade, Dr. Jackson served in progressive leadership roles. As Associate Vice President for Student Success she led the institution’s student success initiatives and coordinated the university-wide retention eff­orts. In her role as Vice President for Student Success, Dr. Jackson was responsible for creating and implementing the university’s academic priorities. Before joining Langston University, she spent 11 years at Louisiana State University in Shreveport as a faculty member, graduate program director, and department chair.

Before transitioning to higher education, Dr. Jackson worked as a high school English teacher, assistant principal, and principal in public education. She earned a Ph.D. in Education and Human Resources Studies from Colorado State University. She holds a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education from Southern University and A&M College.

Dr. Jackson serves on the Board of Visitors for Howard University’s Graduate School and the Edmond (OK) Public Schools Foundation. She is also active in several community organizations. Prior to moving to Oklahoma, Dr. Jackson was a member of Goodwill Industries of North Louisiana’s Board of Directors, ending her tenure as Vice-Chairman of the Board. She also volunteered with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

Active in several organizations, Dr. Jackson continues to work with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America, Inc. She and her husband John are the proud parents of Leah, a high school senior.