Twenty-seven business and higher education partnerships throughout the state were recently recognized as innovative collaborations that further the education of Oklahoma’s workforce.
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education’s Regents Business Partnership Excellence Award is designed to highlight successful partnerships between higher education institutions, businesses, and the community to further cultivate the higher learning environment through State Regents’ Economic Development Grants. Kyla Guyette, Chief Executive Officer of the Oklahoma Workforce Commission; State Regents’ Chair Dennis Casey; State Regent Steven W. Taylor; and Chancellor Sean Burrage participated in the ceremony, held May 6 at the University of Central Oklahoma.
Institutions involved in these partnerships provide $500 for tuition waivers to employees of the partnering businesses; internships that enable current students to work at the partnering businesses; faculty externships with the partnering businesses; and/or enhancement of the partnerships with additional equipment, materials or supplies. The State Regents provide a $500 match to the waivers.
“When Oklahoma businesses partner with our colleges and universities, they’re not just accessing talent – they’re investing in our state’s future,” said Burrage. “The State Regents are proud to recognize and celebrate these positive collaborations that promote economic growth, innovation, and job creation in Oklahoma.”
The partnerships recognized for 2025 are:
Carl Albert State College and City of Poteau
Partnership has always been a centerpiece for success between Carl Albert State College and the City of Poteau; however, the level of collaboration between the entities has experienced tremendous growth over recent years. Multiple endeavors ranging from land development to coordinated grant projects have delivered increased opportunities for students, citizens, businesses, and service agencies across the region. United efforts in community service, academic programming, civic improvement, tourism, philanthropic advancement, support/outreach, and workforce development have been integral to the growth of local communities. Both partners are proud to make Poteau and southeast Oklahoma a hub of growth and innovation through education.
Connors State College and Cross Telephone Services
Cross Telephone Services and Connors State College have a long-standing relationship that supports the mission of CSC. Cross Telephone Services volunteers support within the community. The company has contributed to projects at the softball field, purchased scoreboards for baseball and basketball, and provided sponsorship of the CSC E-Sports team. This year, they provided the four-time nationally ranked team with relocation of streaming services and uniforms. CSC and Cross Telephone Services recognize the importance of technology within education, ensuring that CSC students gain valuable industry insight and opportunities to access digital learning tools.
East Central University and The Clinic @ Central Oklahoma Family Medical Center
East Central University partners with The Clinic @ Central Oklahoma Medical Center to deliver accessible and comprehensive health care services to the campus community. Conveniently located in the Memorial Student Union, The Clinic @ ECU offers a range of medical services, including primary care, vaccinations, screenings, prescription delivery, and telehealth options for service after-hours. The partnership ensures students have access to high-quality care without needing to travel off-campus, at no additional cost. This collaboration highlights ECU’s commitment to student well-being, fostering a supportive environment that promotes academic success and overall health.
Eastern Oklahoma State College and SE Plant Co.
SE Plant Co. and Eastern Oklahoma State College exemplify community collaboration. As a Main Street small business, SE Plant Co. fosters local connections and vitality. They support EOSC by contributing to educational programs, providing mentorship, and serving on boards and committees. Beyond education, they engage in community development by supporting local initiatives, participating in charitable events, and strengthening small businesses. Their dedication to education and the community is creating a lasting, positive legacy.
Langston University and OG&E
OG&E is Oklahoma’s oldest and largest investor-owned electric utility. The company has developed an impactful partnership with Langston University, making significant contributions to the Office of Career and Professional Development. This collaboration provides OG&E with unique opportunities to offer LU students and alumni valuable exposure to potential career paths. OG&E’s commitment extends beyond career development; they are steadfast supporters of student success through scholarships, including their long-standing sponsorship of the annual President’s Scholarship Gala. Additionally, OG&E has a vital role in enhancing the Langston community by assisting with the revitalization of T.G. Green Park, which directly benefits the university.
Murray State College and The Preserve at Ardmore
In fall 2024, Murray State College moved its nationally ranked men’s and women’s golf program to Ardmore to enhance the athletes’ training experience and provide new opportunities to excel. This move was largely successful because of the partnership with The Preserve at Ardmore. The Preserve offers apartments for students at a discounted rate commensurate with campus housing rates. These accommodations provide students with real-world experiences, access to campus resources, nearby golf courses for practice and competition, and proximity to Ardmore’s retail and dining options. The economic impact of MSC student-athletes in the Ardmore area is expected to exceed $4 million.
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and Service Solutions Inc.
Service Solutions Inc. has been a long-standing partner of Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, playing a pivotal role in the college’s recent development and success. Their collaboration has resulted in improvements on campus, including the funding of the NEO Greenhouse and construction of a new batting facility for the NEO baseball and softball teams. Service Solutions Inc. directly invests in the college, demonstrating a profound commitment to its growth and sustainability. Additionally, they employ NEO graduates, fostering local talent. This partnership strengthens campus facilities and promotes economic development, showcasing Service Solutions Inc.’s dedication to NEO and the broader community.
Northeastern State University and Love Bottling Company
Northeastern State University and Love Bottling Co. have enjoyed a long-standing relationship that dates back to 2003. During this time, Love Bottling has provided annual funding for scholarships and revenue that has been utilized to support academic research, professional development, and faculty and staff council initiatives. The support provided during this sustained relationship also includes soft drinks, sports drinks, branded water, and specialty signage that has been utilized to support the university’s recruitment efforts, enhance guest experiences, meet student-athletes’ needs, and ensure student organizations and events were well-equipped. Love Bottling Co. has provided over $2.6M to enhance the NSU experience.
Northern Oklahoma College and Enid Public Schools
Enid Public Schools (EPS) is a valued partner of Northern Oklahoma College, fostering collaboration to strengthen educational offerings and community impact, growing the student pipeline for the workforce of northwest Oklahoma. Through a long-term facility usage agreement, EPS and NOC share resources and services, including the Integris Infield of Dreams and Failing Field, where EPS assisted with turf installation and new lighting. The Early 30 and Dual Credit to Degree initiatives have celebrated concurrent student successes, with the first four students receiving Enid High School and NOC diplomas in spring 2024. Additionally, EPS hosts NOC men’s basketball, offering elementary students a memorable experience.
Northwestern Oklahoma State University and OG&E
OG&E maintains a strong partnership with Northwestern Oklahoma State University, collaborating on several initiatives. One is NWOSU’s computer science department hosting an annual STEM camp for high school students, which was made possible with financial support from OG&E. In addition to funding, OG&E facilitated an educational tour of the Covington Solar Plant. OG&E also serves as a corporate sponsor for NWOSU athletics, including hosting an annual promotional night. OG&E played a critical role in assisting NWOSU during an unexpected emergency in the university cafeteria. Their quick response demonstrated their commitment to exceptional service and community support.
Oklahoma City Community College and Inasmuch Foundation
For nearly 20 years, the Inasmuch Foundation has been a dedicated partner of Oklahoma City Community College, making a significant impact on OCCC students and programs. Their support of OCCC’s Visual and Performing Arts Center has propelled the success of the Gray Frederickson Department of Digital Cinema, consistently recognized as one of the top film schools in the nation. The Inasmuch Foundation also proudly sponsors the Annual Rosewood Gala, inspiring others to invest in OCCC’s mission and providing essential resources that empower students to succeed and lead in their future careers.
Oklahoma Panhandle State University and Panhandle Telephone Cooperative Inc.
Oklahoma Panhandle State University and Panhandle Telephone Cooperative Inc. (PTCI) have formed a strategic partnership to enhance educational and extracurricular opportunities for students. PTCI supports OPSU through extensive internship opportunities, providing hands-on training in the telecommunications industry and opportunities for employment after graduation. Additionally, PTCI provides exceptional educational program support and sponsorship of college rodeo and athletic programs. Most recently, PTCI has provided significant technical and financial support for OPSU’s new ESports team, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and student success across diverse fields. This collaboration underscores the shared dedication of both institutions to community development and student achievement.
Oklahoma State University and Select Milk Producers Inc.
Select Milk Producers Inc., a leading national dairy products manufacturer, is partnering with the One Health Innovation Laboratory (OHIL) at Oklahoma State University to introduce cutting-edge analysis capabilities that support OSU’s mission to explore the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. Select Milk is equipping OHIL with state-of-the-art equipment that can be used for interdisciplinary research in pursuit of new insights into the symbiotic relationship between animal and human nutrition and health. This partnership enhances the collaborative ecosystem within OHIL while fueling innovation and new research streams, providing critical support for translating OHIL’s capabilities into real-world solutions.
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology and RAE Corporation
In 1971, Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology graduate Jim Swank, along with five other innovators, founded what would become RAE Corporation in Pryor. Since then, RAE has grown to over 600 employees across six manufacturing divisions, producing American-made industrial refrigeration and heat transfer systems. Today, Jim’s son, Eric Swank (OSUIT, 1990), leads the company. The connection with OSUIT remains strong. Alumni sit in key roles and RAE continues investing back into OSUIT through sponsorships, educational demonstration tools, guest speaking, and advising on boards. Together, OSUIT and RAE drive innovation, strengthen local economies, and advance applied science and engineering in the industry.
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City and Greater Oklahoma City Chamber
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber played a pivotal role in the establishment of Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City in 1961. Today, the demand for a highly trained workforce remains as critical as it was 63 years ago. OSU-OKC and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber have sustained their partnership to advance workforce education through the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education program. This OSU Polytech initiative, in collaboration with the Chamber and a network of leading companies, addresses the state’s shortage of high-tech workers. They aim to catalyze a hiring revolution and foster economic growth to meet the state’s emerging technical workforce needs.
Redlands Community College and City of El Reno
Redlands Community College and the City of El Reno have built a partnership focused on education, workforce development, and community growth. The City has been instrumental in promoting the college, supporting its initiatives, and fostering economic opportunities that benefit both entities. Together, they are addressing workforce needs and enhancing local economic development by collaborating on innovative projects and creating opportunities that strengthen the community.
Rogers State University and Cherokee Nation
The Cherokee Nation has a long and impactful history with Rogers State University. Located in the northern part of the Cherokee Nation, RSU serves hundreds of the tribe’s citizens each year with the support of the nation’s robust educational grant program. In 2024, the Cherokee Nation provided RSU with the largest single gift in its history, a $4 million donation to help fund the university’s new Center for Science and Technology. The RSU Foundation provides scholarships to Cherokee Nation nursing students, and RSU-TV broadcasts an array of Cherokee Nation programming, including native language instruction.
Rose State College and ZDen Technologies LLC
Rose State College’s Department of Workforce Development welcomed ZDen Technologies LLC as one of the inaugural tenants in its Aerospace and Cybersecurity Incubator, established to advance innovation in high-demand sectors. ZDen’s advanced digital engineering solutions have energized local economic growth by attracting investor interest, strengthening supply chains, and creating high-quality jobs. Through the incubator’s supportive environment, ZDen refines its cutting-edge technologies, enhancing Oklahoma’s competitive edge. By fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem that aligns with defense sector needs, RSC will continue to strive to meet evolving national security requirements, attract future occupants with critical innovations, and ensure long-term economic resilience.
Seminole State College and Citizen Potawatomi Nation
Seminole State College and the Citizen Potawatomi Nation (CPN) have partnered for decades to promote business, education, and economic growth. Their collaboration includes CPN’s Workforce and Social Service program, which has placed full-time employees at SSC, and participation in CPN’s College and Career Fair. CPN has also donated equipment to SSC’s golf program and campus maintenance department. Supporting SSC’s Educational Foundation, CPN contributes sponsorships, with Chairman Barrett serving as a trustee and Vice Chairman Capps as a former trustee. This partnership enhances the regional economy, expands educational opportunities, and develops a skilled workforce.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University and Durant Area Chamber of Commerce
The Durant Area Chamber of Commerce supports Southeastern Oklahoma State University through the promotion of educational resources and endeavors. The Oklahoma Small Business Development Center is hosted by the university, and the chamber serves as a valuable referral source for clients, assisting both startups and established businesses. Initiatives like Small Business Boot Camps and the Women’s Entrepreneurship Conference provide essential training for local entrepreneurs. Additionally, the Chamber helps promote SEOSU through collaborations on community events like Small Town Christmas, enriching the Durant community and business ecosystem. These joint efforts foster economic growth in the community and state.
Southwestern Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma Army National Guard
Southwestern Oklahoma State University has a long history of partnering with the Oklahoma Army National Guard. SWOSU has been an Oklahoma Guard, Guard Officer Leadership (GOLD) Program site since 2007. GOLD is one of the Guard’s officer training programs. Successful candidates commission as 2nd Lieutenants in the Guard upon graduation from SWOSU. As of last year, SWOSU is providing federal wildland firefighting training for Guard soldiers. The latest partnership involves SWOSU working with the Oklahoma Guard’s Unmanned Aerial Systems and Launched Effects Program. This relationship will allow the Guard to increase their UAV readiness in a cost-effective manner.
Tulsa Community College and Tulsa Educare Inc.
Tulsa Community College established an internship partnership with Tulsa Educare Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to early childhood education. This collaboration allows TCC students to gain hands-on experience in high-quality learning environments. Interns assist in classrooms, support child development activities, and engage with families to understand comprehensive approaches to early education. The partnership emphasizes professional development, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop practical skills, and explore career paths in education. The program benefits both TCC students and Tulsa Educare’s mission by fostering a mutual exchange of resources and expertise. Many of these students move directly into employment with Tulsa Educare.
University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
The University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Business and the W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute partnered with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to host OSBI Career Day. UCO students, alumni, and community members connected with OSBI professionals from the Criminalistics, Investigative, Information/IT Services and Support Services divisions to explore career paths. This event showcased exciting careers within the OSBI, while supporting workforce development and addressing critical occupation needs in Oklahoma. A safe community is a thriving community. Providing students jobs that help keep the community protected helps establish a place for economic growth.
University of Oklahoma and Williams
Williams, an Oklahoma-based energy leader, has been a long-time partner of the University of Oklahoma. Williams has made generous gifts to support the Gallogly College of Engineering, Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy, and Price College of Business, most recently establishing the Williams Office Suite for Sustainable Energy Systems. This transformative addition to Sarkeys Energy Center at OU is a hub for collaborative research, innovation, and learning, enriching the experience of all students and fostering future energy leaders. Williams’ strong support for student success, retention, and mentoring has been a hallmark of this enduring partnership.
University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma and Intellego Media
The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma and Intellego Media, led by alumnus Reagan Elkins, have forged a partnership that exemplifies the power of educational and creative collaboration. Now in its fourth year, the Wrecking Ball Film Festival, co-founded by Elkins and USAO’s Dean of Visual and Performing Arts, Jordan Vinyard, draws competitors from throughout the state. The partnership’s impact is further exemplified by their 2024 award-winning 48 Hour Film Project entry, featured at Filmapalooza and deadCenter Film Festival. Intellego provides opportunities for USAO students and alumni, strengthening industry connections and elevating both USAO’s and Chickasha’s creative presence nationally.
Western Oklahoma State College and Great Plains Regional Medical Center
Western Oklahoma State College is grateful for the long-standing relationship with Great Plains Regional Medical Center. GPRMC continues to push the boundaries by providing comprehensive, cost-effective, high-quality health care to western Oklahoma communities. Since 2005, GPRMC has provided resources to ensure the long-term success of WOSC’s associate degree nursing program in Elk City. Those resources include facility usage, clinical support, and recruiting efforts. Recently, GPRMC acquired additional property and relocated WOSC’s nursing program, providing additional space and enhancing opportunities for learning. With a pioneering spirit, WOSC and GPRMC are making strides in meeting one of Oklahoma’s most critical workforce needs.
For more information about RBPEA and this year’s partnerships, visit https://okhighered.org/econ-dev/rbpea/.