After a national search, the Board of Regents for the Regional University System of Oklahoma (“RUSO”) has named Todd G. Lamb the 22nd president of University of Central Oklahoma (“UCO”). Lamb will assume the presidency beginning July 1, 2023, replacing Andrew Benton, who was named Interim President of UCO in January 2023.
Born in Enid, Oklahoma, Lamb earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Oklahoma State University, having attended a number of classes at UCO on his way to his undergraduate degree, and earned a Juris Doctor degree from Oklahoma City University.
After beginning his career as an Assistant to Governor of Oklahoma Frank Keating, Lamb entered the United States Secret Service where he served from 1998 to 2002. While with the Secret Service, Lamb was appointed to the Joint Terrorism Task Force, was an investigative lead for the 9-11 Investigations, and served on details protecting President George W. Bush and President Bill Clinton.
Following his tenure with the Secret Service, Lamb represented United States Senator Don Nickles as an Agriculture Field Representative throughout NW Oklahoma, after which he entered the private practice of law. While practicing law, Lamb was elected to the Oklahoma State Senate, where he represented the district in which a substantial portion of Edmond, Oklahoma is located. Lamb served as a State Senator from 2005 to 2011.
Following his service in the Oklahoma State Senate, Lamb was elected as the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Oklahoma, a position he held from 2011 to 2019. During his time at the State Capital as a Senator and as the Lieutenant Governor, Lamb served in a number of leadership roles, focusing on educational, financial and commerce matters.
Upon re-entering the private sector in 2019, Lamb has been involved in a number of private business ventures and most recently re-engaging in the private practice of law, focusing on business and governmental matters.
Lamb’s diverse background in government, law, financial management, and industry will help guide UCO into the future as a leading university in career readiness. Lamb also brings an extensive background in situational assessment, risk management and crisis response from his service as a Secret Service agent. The knowledge gained and connections made during Lamb's tenure with the Secret Service will strengthen the UCO’s nationally recognized and respected Forensic Science Institute.
Lamb is respected and supported by many who have helped build UCO. “Todd Lamb is a hardworking and dedicated leader in our state,” said former UCO president Roger Webb. “His ability to navigate complexities, inspire innovation, and forge strong partnerships will be crucial in propelling the university towards a bright future."
Lamb is the recipient of the Oklahoma State Regents Distinguished Service Award for his dedication to strengthening Higher Education in Oklahoma. Then-Chancellor of Higher Education Glen D. Johnson said “Todd Lamb has been a consistent advocate for the needs of students throughout his tenure in the State Senate. His leadership during this difficult budget year was instrumental in providing an increase in funding for higher education, making a tuition freeze possible. Our State System of Higher Education is very grateful….”
The RUSO Regents are resolute that Lamb is the right person for the job of creating a renaissance at UCO as the future of higher education evolves. “Lamb's experience in financial management will be an asset to the university’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and exploring new fundraising avenues,” said RUSO Regent board chair Connie Reilly. “He understands the vital role UCO plays in creating our state’s workforce.”
Lamb is humbled and excited about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “I know first-hand how UCO changes lives. Oklahoma is a better state, and I became a better citizen, because of UCO,” said Lamb. “The Regional University System is crucial to our state’s future and UCO has a role to play as a leader within that system. I thank the RUSO board for a thorough search process. I look forward to the opportunity to serve the students and work with faculty and staff to continue to grow UCO, especially in workforce-critical areas like aerospace, business, technology, and engineering.”
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With strong connections throughout the Oklahoma City metro, UCO is dedicated to developing in students the confidence to succeed through transformative learning experiences.
UCO prides itself as a smart investment for success, preparing future leaders in an opportunity-rich environment, with access to more than 200 student organizations, internships, employment opportunities, and entertainment and cultural offerings of the rapidly growing Oklahoma City and Edmond metropolitan areas.
Founded in 1890, UCO connects its students to unmatched value found in 119 undergraduate areas of study and 81 graduate degrees from its main campus in Edmond and facilities throughout the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. UCO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.