The Regional University System of Oklahoma today named Patti Neuhold as the 21st president of the University of Central Oklahoma. Current UCO President Don Betz will retire June 30, 2019.
Neuhold is the Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer for UCO. According to a university release, she balanced UCO’s $187 million budget through years of the most significant declines in state support and declining enrollment. Neuhold facilitated business process reviews that resulted in savings, higher retention of faculty and new leadership development opportunities.
“Patti Neuhold has the leadership experience, and vision for the university that will help prepare our students to contribute ideas, innovation and solutions to the marketplace,” said Mark Stansberry, RUSO regent chair. “Her blend of financial acumen, organizational development and understanding of what industry needs will help UCO continue to lead in education and workforce development.”
Neuhold was approved by the board of regents on Friday. Her appointment is the result of a national search.
“Patti has been a key member of the university cabinet for several years, and has exercised significant leadership on a number of highly relevant issues to the university,” Betz said. “I believe that Patti will serve the UCO community, the metro and the state with energy, insight and distinction. I will work closely with her throughout the transition. I am delighted, and I sincerely look forward to the successful future of the university under her leadership.”
Her LinkedIn profile lists that Neuhold is a graduate of Oklahoma Christian University and has a Master’s degree from the University of Tulsa.
