The 2011 Oregon Legislature passed historic higher education reform legislation – SB 909 and SB 242. SB 242 removes the Oregon University System from state agency status and allows greater flexibility in policy and budgetary decision-making.  SB 909, a top education priority of Gov. John Kitzhaber that received overwhelming bipartisan support, created the Oregon Education Investment Board (OEIB) to set policy and make funding decisions for education at all levels, from pre-school through college. Taken together, these reforms represent just the beginning of education reform in Oregon.

The UO has been a strong advocate and partner in these advancements and remains committed to working with the Governor, other higher education leaders, stakeholders and legislators to take the next steps in education reform over the next several years.  The months leading up to the February 2012 legislative session will be critical as the new board begins its works and develops recommendations for the next steps in reform.  We need UO advocates to engage with legislative leaders in preparation for February so we can continue to advance meaningful reforms collaboratively that delivers the world class P-20 education system we want for Oregon.

To learn more about how to get involved, click here.