Eastern Family and Friends,

 I want to address the recent speculations circulating regarding the future of Eastern Oklahoma State College, as there have been numerous rumors in the past couple of months. Many of you are likely aware that the governor attended a board meeting in late January at Eastern Oklahoma State College. During this visit, he met with the executive members of our board, toured the campus, and shared comments during the board meeting.

The governor emphasized the efficient use of resources, the importance of shared services, and the significance of colleges focusing on their strengths to adequately prepare students for the workforce. However, post-meeting, he has expressed a desire to see the consolidation of institutions like Eastern, even addressing this in his State of the State remarks, causing speculation and concern.

It's crucial to note that Eastern has been engaged in collaborations with other institutions for several years. We have a shared HR Director with Connors State College, a faculty and course sharing agreement with Connors and Carl Albert State Colleges, and a shared criminal justice instructor with Carl Albert State College. These collaborations were strategically implemented to optimize limited resources and support students, faculty, and staff at Eastern. We have embraced the concept of effectively utilizing resources and will continue to do so. 

Discussions with Carl Albert have consistently revolved around enhancing student access and prioritizing the best interests of each campus. There has never been any talk of closing either campus, and it has been explicitly communicated on multiple occasions that Eastern Oklahoma State College must retain its identity as the Mountaineers! We have and will continue to be who we are. 

Our college leadership and board have consistently held the belief that we must efficiently utilize our resources to best serve our students and community. Those familiar with my previous speeches are aware of my emphasis on increasing access to educational opportunities for students and fostering their success. These goals remain unwavering as we move forward.

Talks about mergers or consolidation can be unsettling, but it's important to understand that both actions require legislative approval, accreditation processes, and the involvement of the Department of Education which would take years. While the governor advocates for shared resources, partnerships, and the efficient use of taxpayers' dollars, Eastern stands as a shining example of having done just that! 

I appreciate the support we have seen from our community. Your continued vigilance in expressing how important Eastern is to our community will be important as we move forward. Thank you for your support! Please feel free to reach out if you have questions.