Staff

Rick Jackson

Rick Jackson serves as Compliance Coordinator/International Affairs, assuring enforcement of all federal and state regulations associated with the university and international students. Rick is registered with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and Homeland Security as the university's Primary Designated Service Official (PDSO). He works closely with both faculty and staff concerning processes and procedures important to maintaining government relationships, student status, and issues associated with international affairs.

Rick has a Master of Business Administration in Human Resources, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance (with a minor in economics), and a PHR (Professional in Human Resources) certification, and is certified as a mediator and paralegal. He represents the university on the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education System Safety, Health and Environment Resource Center Advisory Board.

"In this age of expanding globalization, a growing number of careers hinge on one's ability to interface with those of other cultures. Multiculturalism is more than the latest workplace catch-phrase; it has become a vital part of OSU Institute of Technology's efforts to prepare the next generation of workers for the world labor force."

Thomas Korir Kipkurgat

Dr. Thomas Korir Kipkurgat is the International and Multicultural Coordinator in the Office of International Affairs. He has more than five years experience working with international students and enjoys working with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. He is also interested in cross-cultural communication and activities that make the campus a better place for all students. Thomas holds both Bachelor and Master degrees in business management and finance from Abilene Christian University and a PhD from Texas Tech University in agricultural education and communication. He is originally from Kenya and a former NCAA Track star. His extensive professional travels have taken him throughout Europe, Africa and Canada.

"I believe that future professionals must be culturally competent. They must possess a wide repertoire of skills and a broad cultural knowledge base to interpret and understand world views, communication styles, and unique ways of thinking, being and doing."

OSU Institute of Technology is committed to preparing current and future students to co-exist in a world increasingly marked by diversity, to work effectively across cultures, and to serve as social-change agents. The Office of International Affairs acknowledges the challenges of living in unfamiliar cultures and is prepared to assist students throughout their stay on campus."

Anita Gordy-Watkins

Anita Gordy-Watkins currently serves as Associate Vice President of University and External Relations. Her primary responsibilities include oversight of international education and relations, workforce and economic development, the MidAmerica Industrial Park campus, and representing the university with external university constituencies. She has worked in the field of advanced technological education at OSU Institute of Technology for more than 18 years in various capacities. Prior to her current position, she was Academic Division Chair of Engineering Technologies.

Ms. Gordy-Watkins has been active in national and international partnerships and projects that include working with Switzerland, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Azerbaijan, Brazil and Mexico, as well as working with students from around the world. Watkins holds a Bachelor degree in Marketing and Education, and a Master degree in Human Resource Development from Oklahoma State University.

A long-time advocate of technological education, employer partnerships and global learning, Ms. Gordy-Watkins believes in OSU Institute of Technology's ability to prepare graduates for the global workplace. As technology continues to change the world, OSU Institute of Technology offers a safe and friendly technical learning environment for students from around the world to achieve success in technological fields. At the same time, higher education has a vital role in broadening students' understanding of cultures around the world. The philosophy of the institution is to always place students first which translates to success in any language.

Rozina Snelson

Rozina Snelson has been an outstanding member of OSU Institute of Technology's staff since 1989. As Administrative Assistant for University and External Relations, Ms. Snelson provides a bright and friendly front door contact for individuals contacting the OSU Institute of Technology international student program for information and assistance. She provides support for the program, faculty, and students that includes such things as assisting with marketing and promotion, the student application and enrollment process, scheduling and coordination of special events, visitors and advisory committee meetings.