Computerworld, a leading technology industry news source, announced it has selected Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology's Dr. Scott Newman as one of its Premier 100 IT Leaders for 2009. This recognition honors the nation's most innovative information technology executives. 

Newman, who joined OSUIT in 2000, holds bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Oklahoma, a master's from the University of Oxford, and a doctorate from Oklahoma State University. He serves as chair of the institution's Information Technologies Division.

In discussing the recognition, Newman stresses that the successes of any individual or organization are contingent on the contributions of many. "Really, this award belongs to the Information Technologies faculty and staff. If anything, it's a testament to the fact that I am privileged to work with highly qualified and motivated individuals who are truly outstanding at what they do," said Newman.

Newman currently serves as an advisor to several organizations, including a number of Oklahoma's career technology centers and The University of Oklahoma's K20 Center, and is on the International Review Board of the International Association of Journals and Conferences. He is also a member of Leadership Oklahoma's Class XXII, and has been accepted to become an evaluator for the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

OSUIT's Information Technologies Division, which offers an array of courses online and on multiple campuses throughout the state, was among the first of its kind to receive special recognition from the National Security Agency, and is home to one of the top cyber security contests for secondary and postsecondary students in the U.S.

The division's baccalaureate program was one of the first in the U.S. to be accredited by ABET, the premier accrediting agency for engineering and technology programs, and was recipient of the ABET President's Award for Diversity in 2007. Since its formation in 2001, the Information Technologies Division has received several major grants to support a number of special initiatives, and recently implemented an innovative, service-oriented honor society for Information Technologies students: the Cyber Posse.

OSUIT President Dr. Bob Klabenes says that Newman, who oversaw formation of the Information Technologies Division, has been a leader in innovation. "A key to success in higher education is collaboration," said Klabenes, "and that's what Scott has achieved."

Steve Cagle, Vice President, Harvard Capital, Inc. and chair-elect of the Information Technologies Advisory Committee, believes that students are the best measure of any academic program's success: "The IT students are energized, motivated and excited about their future roles in industry and society. They have no doubt benefited, and will continue to benefit, from Scott's leadership in building dynamic, high-quality programs that attract some of the top talent in Oklahoma and the nation."

Newman, whose doctoral research focused on leadership development, believes that there are as many different acceptable approaches to leadership as there are leaders. However, he adds, "Ultimately, leadership is about improving people's lives through change and innovation."