CPE welcomes new member, approves three academic programs

FRANKFORT, Ky. — A former Kentucky secretary of state and commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Parks is the newest member of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.

Elaine N. Walker of Bowling Green, a former mayor of the city, was administered the oath of office by Franklin County Judge-Executive Huston Wells during the CPE’s virtual meeting held earlier. Walker was appointed by Gov. Andy Beshear to the CPE on July 30 with a term expiring Dec. 31, 2026.

In other business, the Council approved three new academic programs:

• Bachelor of Arts in education, culture, and society from Northern Kentucky University.
• Master of Science in cybersecurity from Northern Kentucky University.
• Bachelor of Arts in legal studies from Western Kentucky University.

The council also:

• Heard reports from CPE President and member Aaron Thompson, a KET informational briefing from KET Executive Director and CEO Shae Hopkins and Senior Director of Education Tonya Crum, and a P-12 Education Update from Commissioner of Education Jason Glass.
• Heard an update on Kentucky State University by CPE Vice President Travis Powell, Acting KSU President Clara Stamps and KSU Chief Financial Officer Greg Rush regarding Executive Order 2021-54.
• Received an update on the 2022-30 statewide strategic agenda by CPE Vice President Lee Nimocks.
• Reviewed the Early Economic Return on Higher Education Investment report presented by CPE’s Travis Muncie and Dr. Grace Dai.
• Appointed Elaine Walker to the CPE’s Finance Committee to fulfill a term ending June 30, 2023.
• Heard reports from the Executive and Finance committees.
• Received “good news” reports from campuses.
• Approved a Council resolution for Kristi Nelson in honor of her service to the Council.