Buffkin/Baker Announces New President for Pittsburg State University: A Transformative Leadership Move

Buffkin / Baker, a specialized executive search firm, recently helped recruit Thomas Newsom as the new president of Pittsburg State University in Kansas. The announcement was made on July 18, 2025, by Carl Ice, chair of the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR). Ice expressed optimism about Dr. Newsom’s ability to continue the university’s success in supporting its community.

Dr. Newsom isn’t new to this role; he has over 20 years of experience in higher education. Currently, he serves as president of Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where he led efforts to increase enrollment and student retention while keeping education affordable. He also held several key positions at Texas A&M-Commerce and Mesalands Community College in New Mexico, where his leadership earned the college top accolades.

His extensive background includes a focus on student success initiatives. Blake Benson, another Regent, highlighted Dr. Newsom’s skill in improving institutions while making education accessible. His goal at Pittsburg State is to build on the university’s existing strengths and positive momentum.

Pittsburg State University was founded in 1903 and currently caters to around 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The institution prides itself on its committed faculty and staff, all working within a robust $110 million annual budget. It offers programs across four colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Technology, and has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

In discussions about leadership in education, experts note the increasing importance of adaptability in these roles. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, college enrollments in the U.S. have experienced fluctuations in recent years, emphasizing the need for proactive leadership to address changing student needs.

User reactions on social media highlighted excitement over Dr. Newsom’s appointment, with many supportive comments about his experience and vision for the future. This reflects a broader trend where communities are increasingly vocal about educational leadership on platforms like Twitter and Facebook.

Buffkin / Baker began in 2017 and has become known for its tailored approach to executive search across various sectors, including healthcare and technology. The firm prides itself on its dedicated team of professionals who understand the nuances of each field they serve.

For more insights on executive searches and higher education leadership, you can explore resources from the National Center for Education Statistics or the Higher Learning Commission.

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