Panhandle State Launches College Advisory Boards to Advance Workforce Readiness

To promote workforce readiness for Oklahoma Panhandle State University graduates, the University announces the introduction of three College Advisory Boards as part of the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and its strategic initiative, Blueprint 2030, which aims to produce workforce-ready graduates. In each of the three OPSU colleges, these advisory boards are comprised of employers and professionals working in the areas the colleges serve.

With Blueprint 2030 in mind, the advisory boards directly pinpoint the need to produce workforce-ready graduates by developing communication between the University and employers. As stated in the Blueprint 2030 Strategic Plan document, “Require every academic division to develop and meet with an external advisory council.”

These advisory boards will align academic programs with regional workforce needs. “I’m thankful for the forward-thinking of our Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education in crafting Blueprint 2030. These advisory boards will provide an intentional space for us to collaborate to improve student outcomes and strengthen our relationships with area workforce leaders,” stated Dr. Julie Dinger, University President.

The College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing, the College of Arts and Education, and the College of Business and Technology have sought members from all facets and industries in the area to join these advisory boards. By connecting industry leaders, faculty, and students, OPSU aims to deliver impactful education.

Tracy Kincannon, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing, hosted over 20 local community and business leaders at their advisory council meeting on February 20th. “Attendees heard about the current state of the educational programs in COASN. The educational leaders at OPSU shared what skills they are instilling in graduates and community leaders shared what programs and skills they see as most promising for the future growth of our area,” Kincannon stated.

Dr. Charla Lewis, Dean of the College of Arts and Education, identified how diverse the COAE’s programs are and how their board will reflect that in fields such as educators, attorneys, art gallery managers, social workers, law enforcement officers, and reporters. She stated, “What I foresee as the purpose for our advisory board is to get guidance on the current skills that employers want from our graduates. We can then make changes to our curriculum based on this guidance. If our students don’t need a skill we’ve been teaching them or need to add something, we will modify our programs to reflect current practices. We’ll make the necessary changes to serve our stakeholders.” The COAE Advisory Board meeting is set for February 28th at 6:30PM in Hamilton Hall and will also have a virtual option.

Amanda Beasley, Interim Dean of the College of Business and Technology, commented, “I look forward to working with local professionals to ensure that the COBT programs and curriculum are relevant in today’s market. Getting insight from those in positions to hire OPSU graduates will be invaluable.” The COBT Advisory Board meeting is set for February 27th at 6PM in Hamilton Hall 127 and will also have a virtual option. Industry leaders in the fields of management, marketing, information technology, banking, and accounting will all be represented on this Advisory Board.

For more information, please contact the specific College Dean. For the College of Agriculture, Science, and Nursing, email Tracy Kincannon at tracy.kincannon@opsu.edu. For the College of Arts and Education, email Dr. Charla Lewis at charla.lewis@opsu.edu. For the College of Business and Technology, email Amanda Beasley at amanda.beasley@opsu.edu.