Chancellor Speaks at Higher Learning Center Dedication
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Western Oklahoma State College hosted a dedication ceremony Friday, Oct. 30 at 11 a.m. for the new Cooperative Higher Education and Training Center.
Dr. Glen Johnson, chancellor of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education, was the featured speaker.
In spring 2008, WOSC broke ground on the Cooperative Higher Learning Education and Training Center. The center was funded through monies awarded by the Oklahoma Higher Education Bond of 2005, which provided all funds for construction and technology housed within this new learning center.
The Higher Learning Center is an eco-friendly building in that it houses a geo-thermal heating and air system which will reduce anywhere between 10 and 20 percent of required energy for heating and cooling.
The new building consists of multiple facilities including ‘smart’ classrooms, computer instructional classrooms, office spaces, conference rooms and a hub room for instructional technology use.
WOSC President Randy Cumby said the new facility will add to Western’s ability to train staff and others in advanced technological applications in both classroom instruction and online delivery.
“Our students and community will find modern instructional classrooms and conference rooms designed in a very pleasant setting. It is hoped the facility will be fully operational beginning in the spring of 2010,” Cumby said.
Those in attendance at the dedication included the Altus Chamber of Commerce, WOSC board of regents, local state and government officials, Chancellor Johnson, along with many employees and friends of WOSC.
Along with the dedication ceremony, Western held an open house for community members and guests to tour the Higher Learning Center later that afternoon.