New OU head of student affairs, other steps taken to address issue of racism

University of Oklahoma President James Gallogly speaks at a news conference Monday about a racist video made by students that was posted to social media last week. [Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman]

NORMAN — The University of Oklahoma has hired an experienced administrator of African American and Korean heritage to be vice president for student affairs as it addresses problems of racism on campus, President Jim Gallogly said Friday.

David Surratt, an OU graduate is scheduled to begin his duties on Feb. 11 but already is working with administrators by phone, Gallogly said.

"It's an absolutely critical job," he said. "I thought his perspective would be helpful."

The vice president for student affairs and dean of students is responsible for 17 departments that make up the out-of-classroom student life experience.