Dr. Clark Harris officially became the 14th President for Northern Oklahoma College on Friday during an Investiture Ceremony in Tonkawa at Foster-Piper Fieldhouse.
In his address to NOC faculty, staff, students, dignitaries and guests, Harris encouraged the audience to be proud of Northern Oklahoma College.
“We need you to be our champions, we need all of you to tell your stories,” he said.
Harris said he wanted NOC to become student friendly with more campus activities in order to retain current students and recruit new students to NOC.
“We must provide an engaging college experience while students are here at NOC,” he said.
“Everything we do should lead to student success,” he said. “Whether that is in their education, their careers, or their lives.”
In presenting the symbols to Harris, Dr. Evans reflected on her 10 years at NOC as the 13th president.
“I hope that Dr. Harris will find that NOC is a very special place that truly creates life changing experiences for everyone who has the opportunity to be part of the campus community.”
“I am truly humbled to and honored that you are here sharing this moment with me, with us, thank you,” he said.
The investiture was tied to the school’s 120-year anniversary. A short video played before the video recounting the school’s long and storied history.
Harris was officially presented the symbols of the office by President Emeritus Dr. Cheryl Evans and Board of Regent Chairman Michael Martin.
Also speaking were Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Pam Stinson and Glenn D. Johnson, Chancellor for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.
Linda Brown also spoke on behalf of the Northern Oklahoma Foundation Board of Trustees.
The NOC College Choir and Concert Band performed the NOC “Alma Mater” and “Oklahoma Rising.”
T. L. Walker, Executive Director of the Standing Bear Foundation in Ponca City, also provided a Native American blessing for Dr. Harris.
NOC faculty dressed in their Academic Regalia, the Executive Council and Board of Regents sat on the platform with the investiture speakers.
An open reception was held on the college circle lawn after the ceremony.