December 23, 2025

Dr. Joel Kendall Appointed Interim President of SWOSU

News Summary

Dr. Joel Kendall has been named the interim president of Southwestern Oklahoma State University, effective January 12, 2026. With over 25 years of experience in higher education and a commitment to academic excellence, Dr. Kendall will lead the university during a transitional period following the previous president’s resignation. His leadership will focus on enhancing academic programs and aligning them with community workforce needs, ensuring a stable and progressive environment for students and faculty.

Oklahoma city, OK – Dr. Joel Kendall has been appointed as the interim president of Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU), effective January 12, 2026. This appointment comes from a robust career dedicated to enhancing Oklahoma’s higher education landscape, particularly at SWOSU, where he has previously served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. His leadership will play a crucial role in guiding the university through a transitional period, ensuring that students, faculty, and staff continue to thrive in an environment committed to academic excellence.

Dr. Kendall brings over 25 years of experience in higher education, combining administrative capabilities with an understanding of institutional accreditation and curriculum development. His background is expected to foster academic growth while improving degree pathways in high-demand workforce sectors. As SWOSU looks to move forward following the resignation of its previous president, Kendall’s appointment signifies a lasting commitment to stability and progress.

Leadership Experience and Educational Background

Dr. Kendall’s extensive experience positions him as a well-qualified leader for SWOSU. Holding a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University, a master’s degree from Indiana University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma, he has built a career that emphasizes transformative education. Before his role as Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, he successfully led strategic initiatives aimed at improving academic programs and student success at SWOSU.

Strategic Planning and Community Engagement

In his previous roles, Dr. Kendall focused on strategic planning and expanding academic offerings in response to community needs. He was instrumental in initiatives that aim to align educational programs with local workforce demands, ensuring that graduates are equipped to contribute positively to their communities. This approach demonstrates his commitment to education as a pathway for personal responsibility and community development.

Confidence from Institutional Leadership

The Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO) and SWOSU authorities have expressed their enthusiasm about Dr. Kendall’s ability to maintain momentum for institutional growth. As experienced leaders increasingly take on important interim roles across Oklahoma higher education, his appointment reflects a broader strategy to providing continuity while navigating transitional phases effectively.

The Importance of Stability in Higher Education

Stability in leadership is essential for institutions like SWOSU, particularly in times of change. Dr. Kendall’s experience not only brings a depth of understanding but also fosters trust among stakeholders. This focus on operational continuity is vital for both students and faculty as they engage in academic pursuits and community involvement.

Commitment to Academic Excellence

Dr. Kendall’s interim presidency is poised to strengthen SWOSU’s mission of promoting academic excellence. His leadership style emphasizes open communication, collaborative efforts, and unwavering commitment to educational quality. As he steps into this important role, the broader Oklahoma higher education landscape will be watching closely, anticipating advancements from SWOSU under his guidance.

Conclusion

Dr. Joel Kendall’s appointment as the interim president of Southwestern Oklahoma State University is marked by an exceptional track record in higher education. His leadership is anticipated to support the university’s mission while ensuring a robust educational environment for students and faculty. As Oklahoma city continues to grow as a hub of higher education, the commitment to developing strong leaders like Dr. Kendall will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the community.

Key Feature	Details
Appointment	Dr. Joel Kendall appointed as interim president of SWOSU, effective January 12, 2026.
Experience	Over 25 years in Oklahoma higher education; former Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at SWOSU.
Education	Bachelor’s from Oklahoma State University, Master’s from Indiana University, Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma.
Significance	Expected to provide stability and continued progress for SWOSU during the transitional period.
RUSO	Regional University System of Oklahoma oversees several regional universities, including SWOSU.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dr. Joel Kendall?

Dr. Joel Kendall is the Vice-Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. He has over 25 years of experience in Oklahoma higher education, including serving as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU). He holds degrees from Oklahoma State University, Indiana University, and the University of Oklahoma.

When will Dr. Kendall begin his role as interim president of SWOSU?

Dr. Kendall will assume the role of interim president of SWOSU on January 12, 2026.

What is the significance of Dr. Kendall’s appointment?

Dr. Kendall’s appointment is significant because of his extensive experience in higher education and his deep understanding of SWOSU’s mission and community. His leadership is expected to provide stability and continued progress for the university during this transitional period.

Has Dr. Kendall held other leadership positions in Oklahoma higher education?

Yes, Dr. Kendall has held several leadership positions in Oklahoma higher education, including serving as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at SWOSU, Associate Provost, professor, and department chair.

What is the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO)?

The Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO) is a governing body that oversees several regional universities in Oklahoma, including SWOSU. RUSO is responsible for ensuring the institutions under its purview fulfill their missions and serve the educational needs of the state.