Hannaford nominated to fill top academic post at Northwestern

A veteran educator and administrator, with a record of success and a statewide reputation for excellence, will be recommended to fill the top academic post at Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

University president Dr. Janet Cunningham today said she will recommend to the Board of Regents of the Regional University System of Oklahoma the appointment of Dr. Bo Hannaford, the current Dean of the School of Professional Studies, to become Vice President for Academic Affairs effective July 1. Hannaford’s appointment is subject to approval from the regents.

Hannaford will replace Dr. Steve Lohmann, who will retire at the end of June.

“Dr. Hannaford brings an impressive record of academic leadership and success to the position,” Cunningham said. “His experience as a division chair and dean provide him with a unique perspective in serving students and faculty. His knowledge of our academic programs and services will be most beneficial as we work to navigate through budget challenges and an ever-changing higher education landscape.”

Hannaford expressed his appreciation for the chance to play a larger role in the University’s academic successes.

“I am honored and excited about the opportunity to serve as the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and I look forward to being able to work with an outstanding faculty and experienced senior staff,” Hannaford said. “I know President Cunningham is committed to providing the best academic experience possible to every student, and I share that commitment.

“I want to thank the interview committee and President Cunningham for their time during this selection process. I am anxious to get started.”

Hannaford earned his undergraduate degree in education from Northwestern in 1992 and completed a master’s degree in 1996. He completed his doctorate in administration leadership in 2010.

Hannaford returned to his alma mater in 2011 as chair of the Division of Education. A year later, he was promoted to the Dean of the School of Professional Studies.

Prior to returning to Northwestern, Hannaford spent 16 years as a teacher and administrator at several universities and public secondary schools.

He served as principal of Ponca City High School before becoming an assistant professor of education at Northwestern in 2011.

During his time at Northwestern, he has been s uccessful in leading the reaccreditation efforts of the teacher education program and recently played a major role in securing approval of the new doctoral program in Advanced Nursing Practice.

He is respected statewide for his abilities and leadership, earning a gubernatorial appointment to the Oklahoma Commission for Educational Quality and Accountability.

A native of Alva, Hannaford and his wife, Tara, have two children – a daughter, Carson, who will be a freshman at Northwestern in the fall, and son, Tucker, age 7.