David Boren Announces Retirement As OU's President

University of Oklahoma President David Boren announced his retirement Wednesday.

His retirement will take effect June 30, 2018.

No successor has been named yet.

Boren, who will have served as the university's president for 23 years, said he would remain as president until the search is completed and his successor has been named.

9/20/2017 Related Story: OU President David Boren To Make 'Important Announcement' Wednesday

After rumors started circulating on social media of Boren's retirement Tuesday night, Boren announced Wednesday morning a public invitation to a news conference to make an "important announcement about the university's future."

Boren spoke for about 10 minutes total, reflecting on his time at the university.

"Serving as your president has been the most rewarding experience of my life," Boren said to a packed room. "Because of you, as our chant says, our university will live long strong as ever."

Thunderous applause erupted after Boren wrapped up his announcement, after which he thanked the audience, saying, "This is an important moment for all of us ... a moment to share."

Since the announcement, many have spoken out including Senator James Lankford, Congressman Tom Cole, Tulsa Regional Chamber and Oklahoma State University. Take a look at what they had to say about Boren below.

Lankford: “President Boren is an Oklahoma institution. Throughout his five decades of public life, President Boren has honorably served the people of his state and nation. I join many Oklahomans today to express my gratitude to President Boren for his faithful service to the University of Oklahoma. The relationships he forged from his service as Governor and US Senator have brought OU exciting new opportunities and tremendous growth and success. Over the last 23 years as president, he has continued a long tradition of leadership of academic excellence and student success.”

Cole: “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.”

Tulsa Regional Chamber: “On behalf of the business community, let me say how much we at the Chamber appreciate President Boren’s strong advocacy for the importance of higher education in Oklahoma, and his leadership for better and adequate funding for education at all levels. As the president of a major university, he displayed great courage to support K-12 funding. His courageous leadership will leave a legacy in Tulsa that will stand for many generations."

OSU: “Oklahoma State University commends President Boren on his remarkable career and epic success. His dedication and leadership as President of the University of Oklahoma has contributed to the betterment of our state and higher education... The state of Oklahoma owes David Boren its deepest gratitude. His lifetime of public service has earned him a place as one of Oklahoma’s finest statesmen. We appreciate all he has done and OSU wishes him all the best.”