OPSU Secures $3.5 Million in Deferred Maintenance Funding Following Legislative Study

At Oklahoma Panhandle State University, every brick and every classroom carries the stories of students who’ve come here to transform their lives. Situated in a rural setting, OPSU has always faced unique challenges, but our commitment to delivering quality education has never wavered. The Oklahoma Higher Education Legislature allocated deferred maintenance funding. These funds will improve safety, accessibility, and technology, ensuring the university can continue providing high-quality education while managing operating costs effectively.

An interim study conducted in October at the State Capitol allowed University President Dr. Julie Dinger to address the unique challenges OPSU faces as a rural institution. She highlighted the rising costs of energy and property insurance and the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades.

With the deferred maintenance funding, OPSU plans to undertake several critical upgrades. Among these is the replacement of aging roofs, windows, and HVAC units, which is essential for improving energy efficiency and sustainability across campus. These upgrades will reduce operational costs and create a more comfortable environment for students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, the university will invest in IT infrastructure and modern classroom technology to enhance the teaching and learning experience, ensuring that OPSU continues to provide high-quality education in a state-of-the-art setting.

After OPSU submitted its priority planning list to the OSRHE, Texas County was struck by a catastrophic thousand-year flood. This natural disaster devastated the community, leaving the university with significant additional repair needs. Among the most urgent is replacing two roofs that sustained severe damage. These repairs are now critical to ensure the safety and functionality of our campus, adding to the list of deferred maintenance items that must be addressed to restore and protect our facilities.

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our state leaders for their continued support of higher education in the Panhandle,” stated Dr. Julie Dinger, University President. “Your commitment enables institutions like OPSU to thrive, fostering academic excellence and driving regional development. Thank you for being so dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and strengthening our community.”

Oklahoma Panhandle State University sincerely thanks state legislators and Governor Stitt for their commitment to higher education by approving state appropriations for FY25. This vital funding will help address deferred maintenance at OPSU, ensuring a safer and more conducive learning environment. By investing in critical fields like information technology infrastructure, building infrastructure and engineering, and teacher education, our leaders empower the next generation of Oklahomans to meet the state’s workforce demands and achieve their educational goals. Thank you for prioritizing the future of Oklahoma.

Photo of Speaker Pro Tempore Kyle Hilbert while on a legislative tour of OPSU.