Rogers State University President Dr. Larry Rice has appointed David LeCount to lead the university’s Innovation Center.
LeCount, who previously served as Senior Business Development Specialist for the RSU Innovation Center, joined the university in February after nearly a decade as a senior manager and vice president with Capital One. He has more than 15 years of experience in market management, business development, sales, sales strategy and operations. He also has owned five businesses from concept to exit strategy.
The RSU Innovation Center provides companies with support and resources to assist the growth from business concept to profitability. It also houses an incubator program that provides advantages to start-ups, including close links to the university’s academic resources and professional, on-site business assistance.
LeCount earned a master’s degree in technology commercialization from the University of Texas and an MBA from the University of Tennessee. He earned bachelor’s degrees in business management and economics from North Carolina State University. He is a Certified Project Manager through Stanford University.
LeCount has two sons and actively participates in their school- and band-related events. He has previously served on the Board of Directors for Junior Achievement and the Community Corps Council.
“David LeCount has strong roots in both the private sector and driving commercialization initiatives via public colleges and universities, which makes him a good fit for the RSU Innovation Center,” Dr. Rice said. “The Innovation Center has been an important part of the university’s outreach to business and industry, and we look forward to David’s leadership to help grow the good work underway at the Innovation Center.”
LeCount takes the Innovation Center leadership role following the May 30 departure of Jeri Koehler, who has been named executive director of industrial and economic development for the City of Claremore.
“I am appreciative of the good work performed by my predecessor, Jeri Koehler, who provided a very solid foundation for the Innovation Center,” LeCount said. “I look forward to continuing that progress in the coming years to further cement the Innovation Center’s position as a center for nurturing the success of business and industry in northeastern Oklahoma and beyond.”
LeCount and the Innovation Center report through the Academic Affairs office under Dr. Richard Beck, RSU Vice President for Academic Affairs.
For more information on the Innovation Center or call 918-343-7533.