Cindy Ross

Dr. Cynthia S. Ross (born December 7, 1950), better known as Cindy Ross, is a fifth generation Oklahoman whose work in higher education and administration lead to her pioneering roles for women. She is known primarily for her service as the first female president of Cameron University.

Personal life Dr. Cynthia Ross was born in Wakita, Oklahoma—one of three daughters. She was raised in Wakita through elementary school and attended junior high and high school in Medford, Oklahoma. Ross has two children, Garrett and Jordan.

Education Neither of Dr. Ross' parents had a college education, so college was not something regularly discussed by the family. Immediately out of high school, Ross went to Oklahoma State University (OSU) and dropped out after a year to be married. After seven years, Ross went back to OSU and attended college part-time while working full-time.

Career Dr. Ross started out her career at Oklahoma State as an administrative assistant under Academic Vice President Dr. Bogg. While working for OSU, Ross developed several policies in areas such as sexual harassment, as well as "family-friendly policies in dependent care leave and child care for working parents." In 2011, Dr. Ross was elected to BancFirst's board of directors.

Achievements Inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame (2011) Oklahoma State University College of Education Hall of Fame (2005) Stillwater Business and Professional Women of the Year (1983) Inducted in The Order of Saint Barbara for her support of the Army and Marine Corps OSU Distinguished Alumni Award (2014) Received the Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian of the Year Award (2007) OU Board of Regents named an academic building on Cameron’s campus in her honor Higher Education Hall of Fame (2013) Elected to BancFirst Board of Directors (2011)