DURANT, Okla. – Durant will be well represented on the Task Force on the Future of Higher Education that was recently formed by the Oklahoma State Regents forHigher Education (OSRHE).
The 68-member task force, which was established at the StateRegents’ March meeting, will conduct a systematic review of higher education in Oklahoma; examine existing initiatives and best practices; and report findings and recommendations on strategies that best support improving quality, access, affordability, and efficiency.
Representing the Durant area on the Task Force are Southeastern Oklahoma State University president Sean Burrage, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Chief Gary Batton, and former State Rep. John Carey. OSRHE chairman John Massey of Durant is an ex-officio member.
“I am honored to serve on this task force with Chief Batton, Rep. Carey and Regent Massey,’’ Burrage said. “I can’t think of three individuals who are more dedicated to serving Oklahomans as we all work together to face the challenges in higher education.’’
The Task Force includes regents, college and university presidents, citizens, and governmental designees.
“Given the ongoing financial pressures on the state coupled with the imperative to raise attainment and graduation rates, the task force will examine ways to improve performance and optimize resources,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “The central mission of the task force is to clearly position Oklahoma public higher education to meet the future challenges of maintaining accessibility and affordability without compromising quality. As such, the task force will focus on modernization, efficiencies and innovation. I appreciate the willingness of these individuals to dedicate their time, knowledge, andexpertise to serve as task force members.”