Western Oklahoma State College is proud to announce that President Dr. Chad Wiginton has been named to The Journal Record’s Power List: Top Leaders in Workforce & Economic Development 2025, a distinction recognizing leaders who are driving growth, innovation, and opportunity across the state.
The annual Power List honors educators, strategists, business leaders, and policymakers whose work strengthens communities, empowers workers, and shapes Oklahoma’s economic future. These individuals exemplify vision, collaboration, and forward-thinking leadership—qualities that continue to guide progress statewide.
Dr. Wiginton’s commitment to strengthening education, supporting Oklahoma’s workforce, and expanding opportunities for students and communities has helped position Western as a vital partner in regional and state economic development. His work reflects the mission of the Power List honorees: connecting people, ideas, and industries to move the economy forward.
Wiginton’s relationship with Western Oklahoma State College spans more than three decades. As a high school senior in 1994, he enrolled in concurrent courses at Western—an experience that sparked his lifelong connection to the college. He later became a full-time student in 1995, spending two formative years on campus and benefiting from the same opportunities Western continues to offer today.
Since its founding in 1926, Western Oklahoma State College has provided affordable, high-quality education to the communities of Jackson, Harmon, Kiowa, Tillman, and Greer counties. Under Wiginton’s leadership, the college remains focused on student success, whether on campus or through Western’s high-touch, high-tech online learning options.
For Wiginton, the most meaningful moments of his presidency come each year at commencement, when he has the honor of presenting diplomas and welcoming graduates into the Pioneer family. Known for maintaining an open door to students, faculty, and community members, he continues to lead with authenticity and a deep commitment to the institution that shaped his own personal and professional path.
Western Oklahoma State College congratulates Dr. Chad Wiginton on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates his dedication to advancing opportunity, strengthening the workforce, and championing the future of southwest Oklahoma.