Rep. Kyle Hilbert and Sen. J.J. Dossett were recognized with the 2018 Distinguished Service Award for Higher Education during this week’s Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education meetings.

Rep. Hilbert was honored Wednesday for his support of funding for higher education in his role as a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives; for his steadfast support of concurrent enrollment; and for his ongoing support of the Oklahoma’s Promise program.

“Since his election to the House of Representatives in 2016, Rep. Hilbert has worked tirelessly on behalf of the students of Oklahoma,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “He is a strong supporter of our concurrent enrollment program and helped ensure the program received additional funding during the 2018 Legislative session. We are pleased to honor him with our Distinguished Service Award.”

Sen. Dossett was honored Thursday for his advocacy efforts to ensure higher education remains a top priority in Oklahoma and for his support of the concurrent enrollment program.

“Sen. Dossett has been a strong advocate of funding for the concurrent enrollment program,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “Throughout his legislative service, he has consistently supported funding for and the legislative priorities of Oklahoma higher education, and we are very grateful for his effective advocacy on our behalf.”

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.