President of OCU to retire
Oklahoma City University President Robert Henry will retire, effective June 30, 2018.
He plans to focus on several writing and legal projects during a one-year sabbatical, after which he plans to return to the university to teach law and other subjects.
Official announcement of his decision was made June 8.
"When I accepted the position of president, I committed to a five-year appointment," Henry said. "I have tremendously enjoyed my time in this role, and after eight successful years, now is the right time to retire."
Bishop Jimmy Nunn expressed gratitude to Henry for the work he has done at the United Methodist-related university. Among many accomplishments under Henry’s leadership, Nunn said, is "the fact that last year OCU finished in the black" financially.
"Personally I extend gratitude to President Henry for his warm welcome of me, the hospitality that he’s extended, and his eagerness to partner with the Oklahoma Annual Conference in constructive ways," the bishop said.
Henry took the helm at OCU in July 2010. During his tenure, the university moved its School of Law downtown, introduced academic programs including a Physician Assistant program, and brought nationally renowned speakers to campus, including two Supreme Court justices.
He formerly served as a chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit and an Oklahoma legislator and attorney general.
The chairperson of OCU’s Board of Trustees, Ron Norick, said Henry’s careful stewardship placed the institution on sound financial footing and positioned the university for growth and continued success.
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