WILBURTON, Oklahoma – Eastern Oklahoma State College has hired John Spradling as its new Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Spradling brings more than 30 years of experience in higher education and workforce development, with a record of driving strategic growth, academic innovation, and student success.

Spradling’s career includes leadership roles at Paris Junior College and Texas State Technical College. At PJC, he served as Vice President for Workforce Education from 2009 to 2022, overseeing all technical programs and managing a workforce division budget of $8 million. Under his leadership, the college launched new programs in cybersecurity, diagnostic medical sonography and 3-D printing, while also securing and managing more than $1 million in annual grant funding. He also guided the institution’s transition to online delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier in his career, Spradling held multiple leadership positions at Texas State Technical College from 1987 to 2006, including Vice President for Student Learning. He directed 43 technical programs and a $20 million budget, expanded online offerings, launched new degree programs, and implemented initiatives that increased student retention and standardized academic advising. He also founded TSTC Publishing, an internal publishing company that achieved profitability ahead of schedule.

“John’s extensive background in academic leadership and program development will be a tremendous asset to Eastern as we continue to expand opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Randy Harp, EOSC president. “He understands both the academic and workforce sides of higher education, which positions him well to strengthen and grow our academic offerings.”

Spradling said he is looking forward to joining Eastern and contributing to its mission.

“Eastern has a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality education and supporting student success,” Spradling said. “I am excited to work alongside the faculty and staff to build on that legacy and create new opportunities for students to achieve their goals.”

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