Dr. Mautra Staley Jones Breaks Barriers as Oklahoma's First Black Woman College President
Dr. Mautra Staley Jones made history in March 2022 by becoming the first African American woman to lead a non-historically Black college or university (HBCU) in Oklahoma. Her appointment as the 11th president of Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) marked a significant milestone for the institution and the state. OCCC, which serves over 23,000 learners each year, continues to expand its academic and workforce training offerings under her leadership.
OCCC supports a diverse student population, with more than half being first-generation learners who qualify for federal Pell Grants. The college provides education to over 18,000 students in credit-bearing courses and another 5,000 in non-credit workforce programs. Its commitment to accessibility and career readiness has earned national recognition.
The institution's Online Psychology Program was ranked among the top 10 in the country by Forbes Advisor. Meanwhile, its Nursing Program outperforms state and national NCLEX pass rates, and health-related courses report 100% job placement for graduates. OCCC also leads in micro-credentials, awarding over 20,000 skill-based certifications last year. Beyond academics, the college excels in technology and community service. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Machine Learning University selected OCCC as a regional lead institution for AI and machine learning training. The college also maintains its designation as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense until 2027. Additionally, the Oklahoma Library Association named OCCC's Keith Leftwich Memorial Library the Library of the Year for its outstanding community contributions.
Dr. Jones's presidency comes at a time of growth and achievement for OCCC. The college's strong performance in education, workforce development, and technology positions it as a key player in Oklahoma's higher education landscape. With its expanding programs and national accolades, OCCC continues to serve as a vital resource for students and the wider community.
