Stacy Leeds Introduced as University of Tulsa's First Female President

Leeds, a Muskogee native and Cherokee Nation citizen, will lead the university, a former Indian boarding school.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 12:09am

Stacy Leeds, a Muskogee native and citizen of the Cherokee Nation, was formally introduced on Wednesday as the next president of the University of Tulsa. The university is a former Muskogee-based Indian boarding school.

Why it matters

Leeds' appointment as the first female president of the University of Tulsa is a historic milestone, reflecting the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a Native American leader, Leeds brings a unique perspective that could shape the university's engagement with Indigenous communities.

The details

Stacy Leeds, who previously served as the dean of the University of Arkansas School of Law, was selected as the University of Tulsa's 21st president. She is the first woman to hold the position in the university's 125-year history.

  • Stacy Leeds was formally introduced as the University of Tulsa's next president on Wednesday, March 12, 2026.

The players

Stacy Leeds

A Muskogee native and citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Leeds is the first female president of the University of Tulsa, a former Indian boarding school.

University of Tulsa

A private research university located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the University of Tulsa was previously a Muskogee-based Indian boarding school.

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to serve as the University of Tulsa's next president and to build upon the institution's rich history and bright future.”

— Stacy Leeds, Incoming President, University of Tulsa

What’s next

Leeds is expected to officially assume the role of University of Tulsa president on July 1, 2026.

The takeaway

Stacy Leeds' appointment as the first female president of the University of Tulsa represents a significant milestone for the institution and the broader higher education landscape in Oklahoma. Her leadership and Native American heritage could help shape the university's future direction and engagement with Indigenous communities.