Northwestern Names Dr. Steve Maier Vice President for Academic Affairs

July 13, 2026

Dr. Steve Maier, vice president for academic affairs.

ALVA, Okla. — Northwestern Oklahoma State University is pleased to name Dr. Steve Maier as the new vice president for academic affairs.

Maier most recently served as dean of faculty, a position he has held since 2022. Before becoming dean, he served as chair of the department of natural science for 12 years and was promoted through the ranks, teaching physics for 24 years.

“Dr. Maier has dedicated nearly three decades to Northwestern through his service as a faculty member, department chair and dean of faculty,” Northwestern President, Dr. Bo Hannaford said. “He understands our mission and values the needs of our students and employees. His leadership will continue to strengthen our academic programs and help continue the successes of Northwestern.”

As vice president for academic affairs, Maier will work closely with the university’s executive leadership to support academic initiatives and ensure compliance with requirements established by the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO) and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE). He will assist with accreditation processes, collaborate with academic leaders on program development and review, and work with campus deans, area coordinators and directors to help ensure the university’s academic systems operate efficiently.

“I am most excited about being a part of a team where I can have an impact at an institutional level,” Maier said. “Higher education, along with many other enterprises, is facing tremendous challenges. I look forward to contributing to overcoming those challenges.”

Maier said the people of Northwestern are what make the university special.

“My favorite part of Northwestern is the Northwestern community,” he said. “Our staff, administration, faculty, students, alumni and stakeholders are all part of an incredible community genuinely striving to improve people’s lives.”

Throughout his career at Northwestern, Maier has served on numerous university committees. His most recent roles include chairing the digital accessibility committee, serving on the graduate committee, online committee, university support and engagement committee and the retention and enrollment forum.

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