Cecil Lewis, Ph.D., has joined OSSM as Vice President of Academics. A nationally recognized anthropologist and expert in human genetics, Dr. Lewis brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education, research, and STEM outreach. 

“Dr. Lewis brings a rare combination of academic distinction and a passion for STEM education,” said OSSM President Tony Cornforth. “His leadership will be instrumental in maintaining the rigor of our academic programs while opening new pathways for students to explore scientific research, health careers, and interdisciplinary discovery.” 

As vice president, Dr. Lewis will oversee curriculum development, support faculty excellence, and guide strategic academic initiatives. 

Raised in North Carolina and Washington, Dr. Lewis earned his bachelor’s in anthropology from the University of Washington, his master’s and Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico, and completed postdoctoral training in genetics and biostatistics at the University of Michigan Medical School. 

He joined the University of Oklahoma in 2007 and rose to full professor, holding affiliated positions across multiple departments and research centers. He has led numerous research initiatives and most recently served as a Scientific Review Officer at the National Institutes of Health. 

Dr. Lewis also directed the NIH-funded “Native American Youths Enjoy Science (YES) Oklahoma” program, which provided Native American high school students with hands-on STEM training, mentorship, and college credit. 

He resides in Norman, Okla., with his wife and four children.