Chancellor Allison Garrett, the chief executive of Oklahoma’s higher education system, has announced that she will be stepping down from her position after three years of leading the state’s 25 public colleges and universities. Garrett’s departure will be effective August 1st, just as the upcoming academic year begins.
Garrett, who has been a prominent figure in Oklahoma’s higher education landscape, has overseen significant changes and reforms during her tenure. Under her leadership, the state’s higher education system has implemented a new funding model, which prioritizes student performance and institutional accountability. Her administration has also focused on increasing access to higher education, particularly for low-income and underrepresented students.
In a statement, Garrett expressed her gratitude to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the state’s higher education community. “I am proud of the progress we have made together, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as Chancellor,” she said. “I will always cherish the relationships I have built and the experiences I have had during my time in Oklahoma.”
Regent Chair, Laura Thomas, praised Garrett’s leadership and commitment to the state’s higher education system. “Dr. Garrett has been a tireless advocate for Oklahoma’s students, and her dedication to improving higher education in our state has been unwavering. We will miss her leadership and expertise.”
The Board of Regents has formed a search committee to find Garrett’s successor, which will be responsible for leading the state’s higher education system during the next chapter of its growth and development.