Oklahoma Panhandle State University is proud to be at the forefront of achieving the BluePrint 2030 Strategic Plan, established by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Anchored on four key fundamentals—producing workforce-ready graduates, growing the student pipeline, focusing on student success, and improving system efficiency and effectiveness—the plan provides a comprehensive roadmap for strengthening Oklahoma’s higher education system. OPSU remains steadfast in aligning its initiatives and resources with these goals, ensuring a brighter future for students and the region.
OPSU prepares students for careers in high-demand industries, addressing the state’s workforce needs. By focusing on nursing, teaching, agriculture, business, and education, the university ensures that its graduates are ready to step into critical occupations and STEM-related fields, contributing to the state’s goal of producing 100,000 degrees and credentials in these areas by 2030. Scholarships such as the Nursing Scholarship and the Alternative Teaching Certification Scholarship directly support students pursuing careers in healthcare and teaching, two critical fields with growing demand. These scholarships not only reduce financial barriers but also align with workforce priorities. Advisory boards established within each OPSU college are composed of industry leaders who guide curriculum development to ensure alignment with workforce needs. This collaboration bridges the gap between education and employment, producing graduates who are prepared to lead.
“At OPSU, we are committed to preparing our students to lead and succeed in high-demand industries,” stated Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Charla Lewis. “By fostering strong connections with industry leaders through our advisory boards and continuously aligning our programs with workforce needs, we ensure that our graduates are not just ready for the future—they are shaping it.”
Expanding access to higher education is a key priority for OPSU. The university is actively growing the student pipeline and supporting statewide strategies to connect more students with higher education by simplifying transfer processes, improving affordability, and strengthening outreach efforts. OPSU has developed seamless transfer agreements with Connors State College, Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, and Lamar Community College, enabling students to transfer credits effortlessly and continue their education without disruption. High school students across the region benefit from OPSU’s concurrent enrollment programs, which allow them to earn college credits and gain a head start on their academic journeys. OPSU remains committed to serving rural and first-generation students through focused outreach initiatives, ensuring these key populations have the resources and support needed to succeed in higher education.
OPSU prioritizes student retention and success through innovative tools, centralized advising, and enhanced academic support. Central Advising supports students during their first 16 credit hours, offering consistent communication and early intervention. Programs like Instructor Insight, Dropout Detective, and APlus Attendance enable faculty to monitor student engagement with learning materials in Canvas and identify those in need of additional assistance. Students requiring extra support are connected to services such as the Academic Resource Center for mentoring, the Hispanic Student Center for tutoring, counseling services, and academic coaching. OPSU has also standardized the Canvas homepage and syllabus format, introducing a Common Syllabus to ensure clarity and consistency across all courses, making it easier for students to navigate their academic experience.
The university has also improved system efficiency and fostered collaborations that benefit students and the community. Partnerships with Panhandle Telephone Cooperative, Inc. (PTCI) and Tri-County Electric Cooperative (TCEC) exemplify this commitment. PTCI’s sponsorship of the E-Sports team and naming of the PTCI E-Sports Lounge have enriched the student experience. At the same time, TCEC’s Collegiate Advisory Board provides students with hands-on experience in cooperative business models, governance, and leadership, equipping them with essential skills for future careers. OPSU has also embraced digital tools and innovative technologies to enhance learning and streamline administrative processes, ensuring a modern and efficient education for all.
University President Dr. Julie Dinger emphasized the importance of this alignment, stating, “BluePrint 2030 provides a transformative vision for higher education in Oklahoma, and OPSU is proud to play an integral role in achieving its goals. From expanding access and affordability to prioritizing student success and workforce readiness, we remain dedicated to empowering students, strengthening communities, and building a brighter future for our state.”
As OPSU continues to align its initiatives with BluePrint 2030, the university remains focused on its mission to produce workforce-ready graduates, grow the student pipeline, prioritize student success, and improve institutional efficiency. By focusing on these core fundamentals, OPSU meets the state’s strategic goals and creates transformative opportunities for its students and the community