| Press Release |
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| December 29, 2005 |
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Governor Announces Dennis Johnson will Head OSAC
New Executive Director will Help Governor Expand Access to Higher Education, Training
Salem, OR—Governor Ted Kulongoski announced Wednesday that Dennis Johnson has accepted the position of executive director of the Oregon Student Assistance Commission (OSAC), which administers a wide range of state, federal and private financial aid programs to help Oregonians pay for post-secondary education.
“Dennis will play a critical role in helping more Oregonians realize the dream of improving their lives through higher education,” the Governor said. “Post-secondary training and education are vital to Oregon’s economic wellbeing—regardless of whether the students are young or old. Dennis brings a wealth of experience to this important job.”
The Governor noted that OSAC’s success is critical to his efforts to expand access to training and education after high school. Among those efforts was his push to increase the state’s support of Oregon Opportunity Grants by 70 percent and, for the first time, include part-time students on the eligibility list. The Commission awards Oregon Opportunity Grants according to students’ financial need.
Johnson recently completed five years of service as vice president for enrollment management at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in Monterey, CA. He has also served as assistant vice president for enrollment and student life at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, CA, and director admissions of Luther College in Decorah, IA. He has served as director of development and financial aid at Buena Vista University in Storm Lake, IA, and assistant director of financial aid at Iowa State University.
“Dennis’ professional record is strong with hands-on experience in the administration of financial aid, which means he comes prepared for the challenges ahead,” the Governor said. “He is also skilled in dealing with legislators, answering their questions, and enlisting their help to expand opportunities for people who need advanced training and education. I have every confidence that he will do a superb job at OSAC.”
The Governor also acknowledged the service of OSAC’s interim executive director, Margie Lowe. “Margie has helped guide the Commission through the recent turmoil of ending the student loan program and negotiating on behalf of Oregon with the US Department of Education,” the Governor said. “She also helped prepare the material I needed to gain legislative approval for the increase in Oregon Opportunity Grants. I’m profoundly grateful to her for all she has done to help Oregon students and further the mission of OSAC.”
Contact:
Lonn Hoklin (503.378.6169)
Anna Richter Taylor (503.378.6496)
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