The OSU/A&M Board of Regents has named Dr. Ryan Blanton as Interim President of Oklahoma Panhandle State University, effective July 1, 2026. Blanton will take on this role while the regents conduct a search for the university’s next permanent president.
Blanton has been part of OPSU’s leadership since 2017 and currently serves as Vice President of Advancement and Interim Student Affairs. He has previously held roles including Vice President of Operations and Vice President of Outreach, leading efforts focused on student success, external engagement, and operational modernization.
Rick Walker, chair of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, said, “Oklahoma Panhandle State University is a key part of the OSU/A&M System’s efforts to expand access to a high-quality education for students from all backgrounds. With more than 16 years of experience at OPSU and other OSU/A&M institutions, Dr. Blanton is the ideal candidate to ensure continuity of leadership during the regents’ search.”
During his tenure at OPSU, Blanton helped secure over $50 million in external funding through grants and partnerships since 2017. He also led operational improvements with campus stakeholders to support workforce development across the region. Recent projects include renovating the Student Union and restructuring housing and student activities programs.
Blanton said he is grateful for the board’s confidence: “As my family and I prepare for our next chapter together, I am honored to step in and help lead the university through the presidential search and support the selection of its next president. I remain committed to working alongside our campus community, prioritizing student success, continuing to implement our new campus-wide strategic plan, and to sustaining the university’s momentum.”
Dr. Julie Dinger, current OPSU president who will depart July 1 to become vice chancellor for academic and student affairs for Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education said: “Dr. Blanton and I have always approached this work as a shared commitment to something bigger than ourselves… When the opportunity arose for me to serve Oklahoma higher education in a new capacity, Dr. Blanton stepping into this role was a natural extension… not a sacrifice but a continuation… Our family is excited for what’s ahead.”
Blanton has served in various leadership roles within Oklahoma A&M System institutions over more than sixteen years—including Connors State College—and holds advanced degrees from the University of Oklahoma.
