Graduate Production Sees Significant Increase

Goodwell, Okla. — Preliminary graduation numbers are in and Oklahoma Panhandle State University is showing a 25 percent increase in graduate production over 2017. This is an 18 percent increase over the 2018 Complete College America target set by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

The Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in Nursing degree boasts the largest number of graduates among bachelor’s degrees this year with Health and Physical Education, Biological Science, and Business Administration next in line.

President Dr. Tim Faltyn commented, “The deans, faculty, and staff deserve all the credit. They have created an environment where students can be successful. Led by Dr. Dinger, we have completely changed our approach to recruitment, retention, and persistence from semester to semester, year-to-year and it’s working! The best part is that we are not just changing the lives of our graduates we are changing the economic trajectory of their families for generations to come.”

Faltyn continued saying, “More graduates means a more thriving economy for this region.”

Established in 2009, Complete College America is a national nonprofit with a single mission: Leveraging the Alliance to eliminate achievement gaps by providing equity of opportunity for all students to complete college degrees and credentials of purpose and value.

“For Panhandle State, our commitment to Complete College America means finding ways to promote degree completion across every student’s entire academic career,” said Dr. Dinger.

Dean of Liberal Arts Sara Richter added, “Complete College America helps advisors secure success for students as well as an increase in graduation rates for Panhandle State. That student success rewards advisors and faculty who work with these students on a daily basis and encourage them and hope for their success. If students succeed, OPSU succeeds—and so does Oklahoma.”

Annawynn Drury will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing in Nursing degree at commencement on May 10. Drury said, “OPSU has made a huge impact on not only my career, but my future career opportunities. It’s no surprise more students are discovering what a comprehensive deal a degree from Panhandle State is. It is affordable and the friendships and professional relationships are life-long. It is the best decision I have made for my future hands down. I will always be an Aggie.”

MaKenze Twyman is also graduating this spring and is double majoring in Agribusiness and Animal Science. Twyman commented, “Panhandle State has impacted me in many ways, but some of the most important parts for myself are the people, our roots and the community. I learned not only from the books, but also hands-on experience. I thank God each day for the opportunity to be an Aggie.”