Administration

Robert Klabenes President of OSU Institute of Technology - Okmulgee OSU Institute of Technology President's Office

Work Phone

+1 918 293 5256

E-Mail

bob.klabenes@okstate.edu

Dr. Klabenes became OSUIT's president in 1983 and will retire in January 2011. Dr. Klabenes began his career in education in 1962 as a classroom teacher of junior high school mathematics. Three years later he was promoted to an administrative role that launched his career in educational administration. In 1971, he became a Senior Research Specialist for Ohio State University in one of its national research centers. Two years later, he accepted the position as president of the Milford Campus of Southeast Community College in Nebraska. After ten years at SCC, he became the president of OSUIT in 1983.

During Klabenes' tenure, he created a unique niche for OSUIT in Oklahoma's system of public higher education. That niche is advanced technological education that culminates in associate in applied science and bachelor of technology degrees that prepare graduates to enter the workforce as "technical professionals" immediately upon graduation. This resulted in OSUIT formalizing multiple national and international corporate partnerships that supported paid internships in all programs of study for students. He also generated active involvement of more than 600 people from business and industry to work with the institution's faculty on a continual basis to assure that student outcome competencies align with the needs of employers. In-kind support from business and industry, along with other private support, provides millions of dollars for OSUIT on an annual basis.

Dr. Klabenes says he has devoted his life to education because of the positive impact it has on changing lives. After he retires, he plans to continue working in the educational realm including consulting, proposal writing, adjunct teaching, and other projects of special interest that have a positive impact on the lives of youth and adults. He also plans to spend a great deal of time with his family.