Another new CEO hired to lead Oklahoma regional university system

OKLAHOMA CITY — The board that governs six of Oklahoma’s regional universities has hired its third new chief executive officer in two years. 

Kent Lashley will assume the role of CEO for the Regional University System of Oklahoma beginning Sept. 1. Lashley will be paid $220,000, plus benefits, to head the university system, which serves over 40,000 students, according to RUSO’s offer letter. 

He currently serves as executive vice president and chief financial officer at Rose State College and has held various senior leadership positions at the school for about 17 years.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve RUSO and work alongside the board, our presidents, staff and partners,” he said in a statement. “Higher education has been the focus of my career because of the difference it makes for students, families and communities. … I look forward to strengthening the pathways that connect RUSO students with Oklahoma’s workforce and its future.”

Lashley, who will serve as a liaison between RUSO’s governing board and its universities, will be the university system’s third CEO appointed since June 2024.

He replaces Ellen Buettner, who was appointed to the role in October. Brandon Tatum, who had served as Gov. Kevin Stitt’s chief of staff, announced his resignation in August 2025 after a little more than a year in the position. Debra Lyon, RUSO’s general counsel, has been serving as interim CEO since June.

The system governs East Central University, Northeastern State University, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Southwestern Oklahoma State University and the University of Central Oklahoma 

Lashley previously practiced corporate law with The ServiceMaster Company and taught as an adjunct professor at Rose State and UCO. 

He earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Memphis School of Law as well as a masters in education and a bachelor’s degree in social science from Harding University. 

“Kent brings a depth of higher education experience, sound judgment and a clear commitment to public service,” RUSO Board Chair Lake Carpenter said in a statement. “He understands the opportunities and challenges facing our regional universities, and he is committed to furthering RUSO’s mission.”