The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education have appointed Sean Burrage as the new chancellor of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. Burrage is set to take office on December 2, 2024, succeeding Chancellor Allison D. Garrett, who will retire the day prior.
Confidence in Leadership
Dennis Casey, Chair of the State Regents, highlighted the thoroughness of the national search process and expressed confidence in Burrage’s ability to lead the state’s higher education system. Burrage is expected to oversee the implementation of the Blueprint 2030 strategic plan, which aims to align educational programs with the workforce needs of Oklahoma.
Professional Background
Currently, Burrage serves as the vice president for executive affairs and chief of staff at the University of Oklahoma. His previous experience includes the role of president at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and managing partner at a law firm. Additionally, Burrage has a background in state politics, representing Rogers and Mayes counties in the Oklahoma State Senate from 2011 to 2014, where he held the position of minority floor leader.
Achievements at Southeastern Oklahoma State University
During his leadership at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Burrage was noted for implementing operational efficiencies and increasing both undergraduate and graduate enrollment. He has authored or co-authored over 50 pieces of legislation and has served on various boards and committees focused on strategic planning within higher education in Oklahoma.
Educational Qualifications
Burrage holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a juris doctorate from the University of Oklahoma. He is a member of the Choctaw Nation and resides in Oklahoma with his wife, Julie, and their four sons.
Role of the Oklahoma State Regents
The Oklahoma State Regents fulfill the role of the constitutional coordinating board for public higher education in Oklahoma, overseeing 25 institutions and ensuring that educational standards and policies meet the needs of the state. The board is composed of nine members who are appointed for nine-year terms by the Governor and confirmed by the state Senate.
(Source: Norman Transcript)