Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) rang in the new year with a new interim President: Dr. Jeremy L. Thomas assumed the role effective January 2, 2021, and continues in his roles as Provost and Vice President of Student Affairs. Interim President Thomas signed a 12-month contract, ensuring OCCC faculty and staff stability and continuity while the Board of Regents conducts its search for a new, permanent President. Chief of Staff Danita Rose remains a key decision-maker along with Interim President Thomas, and the two make up the Executive Team which guides the college’s policies and planning.

“We have full confidence in [Interim President] Thomas, Ms. Rose and their cabinet,†said OCCC’s Regent Chairman, Mr. Devery Youngblood. “[That] gives us the luxury to be very deliberate and inclusive in our transition to a new administration. We owe it to our faculty and staff, and of course to our students, to get this right.â€

Interim President Thomas brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education to the role, including instructional and leadership positions in academic advising, campus recreation, educational partnerships, enrollment management, recruitment and student organizations. At OCCC since July 2018, Interim President Thomas previously served at Blinn College, Angelina College, College of the Mainland, and Northwestern State University. He holds an Associate of Arts in Music from Northeast Texas Community College and another from Trinity Valley Community College, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Northwestern State University, a Graduate Certificate in Academic Advising from Kansas State University, and a Doctor of Education from Grambling State University.

“It’s an honor to lead this community,†said Interim President Thomas. “We made a lot of positive changes in 2020, despite many significant challenges. I believe OCCC is entering a new era sure to be filled with excitement, new focus and positive change.â€

With more than 60 majors to choose from, and more than 40 student-led clubs and organizations, OCCC offers an affordable, accredited college education to around 17,000 students annually, and serves thousands more in non-credit classes and programs. OCCC offers associate degrees, certifications and leadership opportunities to all Oklahomans, whomever they are, whomever they love, wherever they’ve been and wherever they’re going.

For information, opportunities and updates, visit thinkoccc.com and follow @OtripleC on social media.