Oklahoma Sen. Roger Thompson was recognized with 2020 and 2021 Distinguished Service Awards for Higher Education during today’s meeting of the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. He was honored for his support of higher education in his role as Chair of the Appropriations Committee, co-chair of the Committee on Pandemic Relief and as a member of the Finance and Rules committees.

“Sen. Roger Thompson has remained steadfast in his support of the state system of higher education’s budget priorities, including fulfilling the state’s matching commitment of $161 million for the Endowed Chairs program; a much-needed faculty salary increase; fully funding the concurrent enrollment program; expanding support for engineering, STEM, and nursing degree programs, as well as teacher education programs; and providing funds for Section 13 offset monies, which are utilized for deferred maintenance and capital expenditure purposes at our colleges and universities,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “The State Regents, the Council of College and University Presidents, and I are pleased to honor Sen. Thompson, a strong advocate for higher education since his election to the State Senate in 2014, with consecutive Distinguished Service Awards for Higher Education.”

The Distinguished Service Awards for Higher Education recognize individuals who demonstrate distinguished leadership and support of higher education in Oklahoma during the legislative session. It is the highest award presented by the State Regents and the Council of College and University Presidents.

“People are moving to Oklahoma because of the quality of our workforce, which is a direct result of our higher education system,” said Sen. Thompson. “I have seen what a difference it makes in the lives of Oklahomans, especially in rural areas like my district. I am very supportive and proud of our higher education programs in Oklahoma and I am honored to receive this award.”