By Stu Johnson
Richmond, KY – During the last decade, a new study done by The National Center for Higher Education Management Systems says education reform proceeded at a faster pace in Kentucky than much of the nation. Officials with ties to higher education were in Frankfort today to celebrate. But most all agree much more work lies ahead.
The study looked at progress made since Kentucky enacted the Higher Education Reform Act in 1997. From 2000 to 2009, it has Kentucky ranked first among states in the percentage gain for adults from age 25 to 64 with college degrees. The Commonwealth also took the first spot for its gains in six year graduation rates at four year institutions. Like many speakers, EKU President Doug Whitlock sounded a note of caution in saying it documents that we are on the right track.'
" We have gained more in those measures than any other state I the union in aggregate. Now. But as you heard somebody say, we moved from 44th to 35th. You know, nobody else moved nine spots, so we've still got work to do."
Former Governor Paul Patton received the longest sustained applause for leading higher education reform in the 90's. For his part, Patton praised those educators with feet on the ground.' Patton, who's now president at the University of Pikeville, admitted the state's about halfway to where it needs to be in higher education.