Rogers State University officials recently named Mr. Keith Bailey, former Williams Companies president, as the university’s first Executive-in-Residence.
Bailey met with more than 70 students this week to talk about issues in business and to facilitate a discussion about a series of case studies designed to explore ethical issues in business and education. RSU officials honored Bailey at a private dinner Tuesday.
Dr. Bruce Garrison, dean of RSU’s School of Business and Technology, said RSU plans to continue the Executive in Residence Program by inviting additional executives to campus several times each year.
“We are delighted to have Keith Bailey on the RSU campus and believe his many years of energy industry experience will be a great resource for students and faculty,” said RSU President Dr. Joe Wiley. “This program is one of many which help enrich students’ educational experiences at RSU.”
Bailey served as the president and chief executive officer of Tulsa-based energy giant Williams Companies from 1992 until his retirement in 2002. Prior to becoming president, he served in several other positions at Williams, including Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration, President of the Williams Natural Gas Company, and President of the Williams Pipe Line Company. In addition, he served on the company’s board of directors from 1988 to 2002.
“Many students have not had the opportunity meet with a major corporate executive prior to participating in the Executive in Residence program,” Garrison said. “This will be a memorable and educational experience for our students.”
Bailey has a long history of service in business and community organizations. He currently serves on the boards of directors of Apco Argentina, Integrys Energy, Aegis, and MarkWest Energy Partners. In addition, he gave the annual Carl G. and Gladys L. Herrington Distinguished Endowed Lecture at RSU in 2000.
He is a 1964 mechanical engineering graduate of the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy, which is now known as the University of Missouri – Rolla (UMR). He also has received a Professional Degree and an Honorary Doctor of Engineering from UMR. In 1978, he completed the Harvard University Program for Management Development.
Bailey served on the board and as chairman of several charities and universities including the University of Tulsa, the University of Missouri- Rolla, Tulsa Area United Way and Philbrook Museum of Art. He has received many awards and recognitions including the Marriott School of Business International Executive of the Year, CEO Magazine’s Energy CEO of the Year and the Tulsa Sports Commission Sportsman of the Year.
More information about the Executive in Residence Program and RSU School of Business and Technology is available by calling (918) 343-7520.