Pour a little National Merit out for a scholar.
Yesterday afternoon, former OU President David Boren—one of the most powerful, influential, and a-bit-too-friendly politicians in Oklahoma history—died at the age of 83.
As a testament to his clout, political savvy, and deeply held commitment to helping the wealthy, powerful, and influential figures from all corners of Oklahoma’s political ecosystem—especially those who benefited both professionally and financially from their ties to him—issued statements mourning his passing.
For example, Continental Resources founder Harold Hamm—the billionaire who regularly donated to OU, placed Boren on his company’s board, and then tried to use their friendship to cover up the oil and gas industry’s role in Oklahoma’s earthquake outbreaks of the 2010s—had this to say:
With great sadness, but also with a heart full of gratitude, I reflect on the extraordinary life of my dear friend, David Boren. For many, many years, David was not just a trusted confidant but a man whose wisdom, quick wit, and deep intellect left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
David devoted his life to serving others—first the great state of Oklahoma as Governor and U.S. Senator, and then as the transformative leader of the University of Oklahoma. His vision and leadership shaped our state and its institutions in ways that will be felt for generations to come...
OU President Joe Harroz—a Boren protégé who has fought hard to keep reports about his mentor’s alleged transgressions with male aides sealed and out of public view—offered this tribute:
The university is saddened to share the passing this morning of David L. Boren, whose life’s work was rooted in his commitment to the people of Oklahoma and his belief in the power of education to change lives. For more than five decades, he devoted himself to our state, nation, and university, first serving as a state Legislator before rising to become Governor of Oklahoma, a United States Senator, and the 13th president of the University of Oklahoma...
Throughout his 24 years as president of the University of Oklahoma, he elevated the prestige of the university through his profound belief in education as the great equalizer, creating pathways to opportunity for countless students...
And finally, Oklahoma’s Superintendent of Edumacation Ryan Walters had these fine words to say about the man:
David Boren was a fine educator, public servant, and deviant creeper who dedicated his life and career to pushing the radical liberal agenda of Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Nancy Pelosi! He worked tirelessly to indoctrinate Oklahoma college students with woke LGBTQ+ DEI BLM policies, supported porn in schools, trans athletes, and diversity training. I will proudly work head and toe with President Trump to dismantle these oppressive policies, protect parental rights, and guarantee full school choice for every Oklahoma family.
Okay, Ryan didn’t actually say that. In fact, he didn’t acknowledge Boren’s death at all! I just used my powers to get inside his hollow, primitive brain – a terrifying place – and type out what he would have said.
Anyway, David Boren—like most men of power—was a complicated figure, the textbook definition of the duality of man.
Outside of Carl Albert and Robert S. Kerr, he’s probably the most successful and powerful politician in Oklahoma history. He did a lot of good—and plenty of bad—for this state and country.
He also had an undeniable charm and charisma and was beloved by many, including my dad.
Here’s a story I’ve shared before about being raised in the Church of David Boren:
I was actually raised in the Church of David Boren. Like most liberal Baby Boomers, my dad idolized the man. In 1987, while exhibiting at an arts education workshop at the Kennedy Center, he met Boren in his office on Capitol Hill. They took part in the obligatory Generic Photo Shaking Hands In Front Of An American Flag moment. I think the pic is still framed in my dad’s garage.
A few years later, when I was about 10, Boren pulled up next to us at the intersection of 23rd and Broadway. I think he was driving a big station wagon with a personalized Snator1 license plate or something. My dad honked and waved enthusiastically. Boren turned, flashed a big smile, and gave him a cool thumbs-up. To this day, I think my dad still believes Boren recognized him.
Though he’ll be remembered as a powerful politician and university leader, Boren’s legacy will forever be tarnished by the allegations that surfaced during the #MeToo era, when credible accusations and investigations revealed that he used his position as OU president to prey on young men who worked for him.
I’d expand more on those accusations and investigations, but—as mentioned—OU has fought tooth and nail to keep those records sealed, protecting the man to his very end. Just like clicking a random article behind a paywall, I guess we’ll never know.
Our sincere condolences go out to Boren’s family, friends, and supporters. His legacy is a complicated one, but you can’t deny the influence he had in shaping this state.
RIP.
