OCU selects new trustee executives, appoints first female chair since 1995

OKLAHOMA CITY Oklahoma City University’s Board of Trustees has installed its executive committee for the new school year, marking a historic moment with the appointment of Jane Jayroe Gamble as the first female chairperson since the mid-1990s.

Jayroe Gamble, an OCU alumna and former Miss America, steps into the role after serving as vice chair. A distinguished journalist, public official, author, and the first of three Miss America winners from OCU, she will serve a three-year term as chair. Her first full board meeting in this capacity is scheduled for later this month.

“Jane has been making OCU history since she was a student,” said OCU President Kenneth Evans. “She has proven her ability to lead through a remarkable career spanning a variety of disciplines. I look forward to collaborating with her, and the OCU community looks forward to her leadership as chair of our board.”

Jayroe Gamble, who earned her bachelor’s degree in music in 1969 and an honorary doctorate in 2011, has had a diverse career, including a 17-year stint in TV journalism and serving as the cabinet secretary for the Oklahoma Department of Tourism. She has also written inspirational books and founded the Esther Women luncheon series.

Reflecting on her new role, she stated, “Stepping into a leadership role at OCU is a chance to gratefully give back to a place that changed my life for the better.”

Other executive committee appointments include Vice Chair Nick Harroz, Secretary Emmanuel Edem, Treasurer Jacque Fiegel, Chair of Investments Debbie Fleming, Chair of Development and Strategic Planning Jenee Naifeh Lister, Chair of Student and Campus Life Phil Busey and Chair of University Church Relations Clint Purtell. The previous chair, attorney Gary Homsey, will transition to the chair of governance position. Committee member bios are available online.

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