(PCM+) May Future Ed: Thoughts on Higher Ed

by Stephen Scott

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Investment. That word tends to automatically lead people to think money, as in investing for their retirement. But this concept also applies personally. People should invest in themselves, and I am not talking money. Education is an investment in yourself. The Roman ruler Marcus Aurelius was an avid learner. Throughout his life the most powerful man in the world continued to “pick up his books” and attend classes in various areas of study. He once said “learning is a good thing, even for one who is growing old. From Sextus the philosopher I shall learn what I do not yet know.”

The Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education know investment in our colleges and the people of our state is literally investing in everyone’s future. Each year the regents request additional funding above normal allocations, and for 2025 it was approved at an additional 12.5%. These funds will be used to re-engage adult learners, including additional scholarships for adult students nearing completion of a college degree. Some of the funding is for the Reach Higher program to help students who have some college credits but not a degree. The state can help you finish.