NEWS
The Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy is pleased to announce the appointment of Prue Smith, Ph.D., as the new director of the Irani Center for Energy Solutions, effective August 9, 2025. Smith will also join the faculty as an associate professor in the Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering.
Smith brings deep technical expertise and vast operational experience in the energy industry. With a background in petroleum engineering, digital transformation, and decarbonization, she is uniquely positioned to guide the Irani Center for Energy Solutions into its next chapter, strengthening collaboration with industry partners while advancing research and solutions for the evolving energy landscape.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Smith to the Irani Center and to the Mewbourne College,” said John Antonio, dean of the Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy. “Her experience at the intersection of technology, innovation, and energy systems will expand our capacity to deliver real-world solutions for industry while training the next generation of energy leaders.”
“Dr. Smith brings an exciting global perspective and an entrepreneurial mindset that aligns perfectly with the mission of ICES,” added Runar Nygaard, director of the Mewbourne School of Petroleum and Geological Engineering. “Her leadership will be a great asset to both the Center and the school.”
The college also extends its appreciation to Dean Sergent, who has served as director of ICES since 2020. Under his leadership, the center has advanced its mission of bridging academic expertise with industry needs, launched successful student-industry collaborative projects, and expanded its impact across Oklahoma’s energy sector.
Sergent will step down from his role at the end of July to pursue his growing software venture, North by Northwest. We are grateful for his service and wish him continued success in this exciting next chapter.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. For more information about the university, visit www.ou.edu.
Although often considered a disease of the past, leprosy remains a global health issue, causing preventable disability due to delayed diagnosis and gaps in care. In a paper published in The Lancet, a professor of infectious diseases from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine calls for stronger awareness, earlier detection and improved long-term management.
The University of Oklahoma Honors College hosted its 38th annual Undergraduate Research Day on April 16 in the Thurman J. White Forum Building. Over 300 people attended, and 175 students presented their posters and projects to visitors, faculty members, judges and peers.
The Collaborative Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership offers emerging leaders across Oklahoma’s PK–12 public education system a doctoral experience designed to be as relevant as it is rigorous.
