Eastern Oklahoma State College announced the hiring of Dr. Kyle Foster as vice president of student affairs and Dr. Randy Harp as vice president of development and academics. Harp will also be the acting dean of the agriculture division.

“I am excited about adding Dr. Foster and Dr. Harp to our leadership team as we work to improve educational access and remove barriers to student success,” Dr. Janet Wansick, president of Eastern, said. “They each bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their respective roles and I look forward to working with them both.”

Foster comes to Eastern after serving as the associate executive secretary of the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents. Prior to his time at OU, Foster served in a variety of roles for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, including as the assistant vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Foster earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from East Central University, a master’s degree in higher education from Drexel University, as well as a doctoral degree in educational leadership and policy studies from Oklahoma State University.

The vice president of student affairs serves as an advocate for student needs and ensures that every student has the resources and support necessary to thrive. Foster will also be responsible for the development and implementation of strategic initiatives in alignment with the institution’s mission and goals.

Harp rejoins the Eastern faculty after serving in a variety of roles at Texas A&M University-Commerce, most recently as the senior development officer for the Office of Philanthropy and Engagement. He has been an employee at Eastern previously, serving as an instructor in the agriculture division from 1984 to 1999.

Harp earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from OSU, a master’s degree in animal science from New Mexico State University, as well as a doctoral degree in agricultural education and higher education administration from OSU.

In this new role, Harp will serve as the chief academic officer of the college and oversee the academic divisions, deans and teaching faculty. Harp will also be responsible for the development of new academic programs and will assist institutional departments with fundraising efforts.