Cole Statement on University of Oklahoma President David Boren's Retirement

Norman, OK – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after University of Oklahoma President David Boren announced his intention to retire at the end of the academic year.

"As someone who has known David Boren for over 40 years, it was with mixed emotions that I learned of his decision to step down as President of the University of Oklahoma at the end of the academic year," said Cole. "I consider President Boren to be the most consequential and influential Oklahoman since Robert S. Kerr. As a state legislator, governor, U.S. Senator and President of OU, he has contributed more than any other Oklahoman to the wellbeing of our country and the state of Oklahoma.

"Personally, while I respect his decision, I regard his departure as a great loss for OU and the state of Oklahoma. Every Oklahoman and OU alumni realizes his departure is a genuine loss, and it will be hard to replace him with someone of his vision, talent and stature.

"President Boren can take great pride in the progress of the University of Oklahoma under his leadership. By every conceivable measure he has left the university stronger than he found it. The student body is more talented and diverse. The academic programs are richer and deeper. The campus is more functional and beautiful. And the endowment has been multiplied many times over. Last year, OU ranked #10 among public universities in terms of the amount of donations received, outpacing many famous private universities such as Princeton. In fact, the main campus of the University of Oklahoma received three times as much money from contributions as from appropriations from the state of Oklahoma.

"While President Boren will be missed, I have no doubt that the Regents will come to a wise and thoughtful decision concerning a potential successor. And I know firsthand that the institution is strong and dynamic. It will adapt well to a new president.

"As President Boren serves out his final year, I hope all Oklahomans will reflect on the profound contributions he has made to the University of Oklahoma, to our state, and to our country. I wish him well in his retirement and look forward to his continued contributions to the public life of our state and our nation."