Nov. 7, 2024
NORMAN, OKLA. – OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. was recently inducted into the 2024 class of the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame by the Oklahoma Higher Education Heritage Society.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame Class of 2024,” Harroz said. “This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication and hard work of the entire University of Oklahoma community.”
Among those also inducted into this year’s Hall of Fame class were former Oklahoma State University President and former state Senator Jim Halligan, along with his wife, Ann Halligan; Larry Rice of Rogers State University; John McArthur of Cameron University; as well as former State Regent Ann Holloway.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the other inductees this year, whose contributions have enriched the landscape of higher education in Oklahoma,” Harroz added. “Together, we celebrate the transformative power of education and reaffirm our commitment to advancing knowledge, opportunity, and excellence for all.”
During his induction, Harroz spoke about his nearly 30 years of service at the University of Oklahoma and how it has afforded him the opportunity to bear witness to the life-changing transformation of higher education.
Harroz’s connection to the university began with his father, who earned an undergraduate degree and medical degree from OU. That personal background changed their family’s life, with Harroz following in his father’s footsteps by also completing his undergraduate education at OU.
Harroz invoked the idea of the American Dream and how higher education is a vehicle to that goal.
“We reaffirm our commitment to keeping those doors of opportunity open for the next generation,” Harroz said. “Just like those who paved the way for us.”
