Southeastern students visit with Rep. Cody Maynard Tuesday at Higher Ed Day
Students from Southeastern Oklahoma State University joined their counterparts from Oklahoma’s other state system institutions at the state Capitol Tuesday to demonstrate the value and importance of higher education in the state.
At an annual event known as “Higher Education Day,’’ students, presidents, and other college officials had the opportunity to visit with their local legislators to discuss the issues impacting education.
Among the individuals speaking to SE students were Rep. Cody Maynard, Rep. Eddy Dempsey, Sen. Greg McCortney, and Regent Connie Reilly, chair of the Regional University System of Oklahoma Board of Regents.
In the afternoon, at a formal program in the House Chamber, speakers included Dr. Brandon Tatum, Chief of Staff for Governor Kevin Stitt; Speaker Charles McCall; Rep. Anthony Moore; Sen. Adam Pugh; State Regents chair Michael C. Turpen; and Chancellor Allison D. Garrett.
Three students also spoke at the event, sharing how pursuing higher education at Oklahoma’s public college and universities has positively impacted their lives.
“Students, faculty and staff from Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities came together today at our State Capitol to highlight the value of a college degree,” said Garrett. “Over half of the top 100 occupations identified by Oklahoma Works as critical to economic growth in our state will require an associate degree or higher, including the top 29 highest paying jobs. Bachelor’s and associate degree holders earn 75% more and 25% more, respectively, than those with only a high school diploma. Investing in higher education drives economic opportunity for individual Oklahomans and attracts high-wage employers, which creates vibrant communities across our state.”
