A Tribute to President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis
The Doel Reed Center in Taos was given to OSU in 2006 by alumna Martha Reed to honor the legacy of her father, Doel Reed, who led the OSU Art Department for many years and was an internationally acclaimed landscape artist and printmaker. Since then, the center has undergone many changes to become the outstanding program that it is today. Much of that growth is thanks to former OSU President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis.
Since their first visit to the center, Burns and Ann dedicated much of their time and resources to building a firm foundation to ensure the center’s growth and impact. Their passion for the arts and for this property inspired the renovation of the two residences and Doel Reed’s artist studio. They encouraged the expansion of both academic and leisure learning program offerings at the center, funded the endowed professorship that supports the Center’s Director position and so much more. Not only have the Hargises provided leadership for this project, but they have also been a personal part of the center and its activities.
Burns and Ann visit the center each summer to take classes themselves and connect with alumni. Burns described the meaningful experience by saying, “The Doel Reed Center in Taos has been a rewarding part of our lives throughout our time at Oklahoma State University. Ann and I look forward to experiencing the culture and stunning scenery each year. It truly is an enchanted place and a fantastic extension of OSU to the Southwest.”
The impact Burns and Ann have had on the Doel Reed Center and the lives of those who have spent time there will carry on for years to come. They have emphasized the importance of exploring other cultures, geography and history by ensuring students have an opportunity to study in the unique setting northern New Mexico provides.
President Hargis put it this way: “Being in Taos and experiencing the culture and stunning scenery is a unique combination which feeds your soul by experiencing art, literature and nature.”
We genuinely appreciate Burns and Ann for seeing the potential in the Doel Reed Center in Taos and for the energy, personal contributions and leadership they have provided to make it what it is today. It is through these efforts that we can be confident that the future of the center is on solid footing.
