O’Rear will become the university’s 19th president on June 1, 2009, when Bawcom becomes chancellor of the school.
UMHB’s first alumnus president, O’Rear graduated from UMHB with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1988 and a master’s degree in business administration in 1997. He earned a doctoral degree in higher education administration from Baylor University in 2004.
He has served at UMHB for 20 years, and for the past 3˝ years has been executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Telegram: What was your reaction when you found out that you had been named the incoming president?
O’Rear: Well, I think I was very humbled. I have great respect for this university and have spent a lot of time working here - for them to name me the president is truly humbling. I have a tremendous amount of passion when it comes to this university, and it’s really an honor for me that the board members with the school would have that much confidence in me.
Telegram: What’s your relationship with (departing) president Bawcom?
O’Rear: I’ve worked with Dr. Bawcom since I came to UMHB in the early 1990s. He has probably been the single most influential person in my career. He has always been there for me in terms of advice, and has helped promote me to my current position as the chief operating officer, which has given me a tremendous amount of experience. I am very thankful for the opportunities that have been offered to me because of Dr. Bawcom.
Telegram: What types of political lobbying experience do you have?
O’Rear: Because UMHB is a private college, we do not experience the same issues as public college’s and universities when it comes to funding issues. In the past, I have served as the vice president of external relations, so I do know what it’s like to work with people who are influential - at the university, we do try to work at enhancing our image when it comes to other decisions that may impact us at the local or state level, for reasons that usually have nothing to do with funding.
Telegram: What sort of challenges or obstacles do you think UMHB faces?
O’Rear: I think the challenge for us is to keep tuition low for our students, while continuing to grow. As a private university, our funds derive from student tuition, which we would like to keep as low as possible. It can be especially challenging right now, with economic conditions the way they are and the needs for structural and operational changes that have to take place every year.
Telegram: How would you describe UMHB’s role in the Central Texas community?
O’Rear: I think the university impacts the community tremendously with our mission of educating young adults with a Christian-based message. We regularly produce graduates in fields of service like nursing and education who serve tremendous roles in the community. These fields and jobs are the backbone to the community, as they are completely necessary for growth.
Telegram: How do you think your previous work experience with UMHB will help you when you take the presidency?
O’Rear: I think my understanding of the university will make the transition very smooth. I have been here for a very long time, and know the ins and outs. I think Dr. Bawcom left the school in tremendous shape, and did a wonderful job. I’m going to take a look at what (Dr. Bawcom) did, and use my experiences with him, and try to continue the university’s success. This is a tremendous opportunity for me. This university has always been there for my family, and me, and I look to build on that relationship.
