Early College High School Program at Panhandle State 

The Early College High School Program at Oklahoma Panhandle State University started in 2018. This program allows exceptionally prepared rising high school sophomore students the ability to begin college coursework on a path to finishing an associate’s degree while they complete their high school diploma.

University President, Dr. Tim Faltyn, said, “I have so much admiration and respect for these students and their willingness to constantly learn, not only at a high school level but also a collegiate level as well. We are excited to be able to be a part of such a life-changing program.”

The first schools to participate in the program were Guymon, Goodwell, and Hooker High Schools. The first class of ECHC students who began in the fall of 2018 just graduated this spring of 2021.

The graduates from Guymon High School were: Anna Bautista, Kendall Brown, Luke Bryan, Clayton Carter, Daisy Yasmin Chavez, Brett Fields, Yadira Gutierrez, Austin Jacobs, Julie Johnson, Estrella Tecum-Ramos, and Natalie Watson.

The graduates from Hooker High School were: Cristal Hernandez, Ashley Jimenez, Halea Locke, Alexa Moreno, Karson Neville, and Mackenzie Ray.

Upon graduation, students attain an Associate of Science in General Studies with concentrations available in various areas, including Education, STEM, and Business fields.

Provost, Dr. Julie Dinger, commented, “The success of this program would not have been possible without the flexibility and excellent learning experiences offered by our faculty. I’m proud of this program.”

Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Brad Duren, stated, “The ECHS program has been a joyous success. Partnering with our area high schools and providing students with such an opportunity places them in a greater position for future successes. It is a program that will certainly expand as we move forward. We are grateful to be part of the ECHS vision, and I look forward to a very bright future as OPSU continues to make a difference in the lives of area students and their families. That is what we are about!”