STATE REGENTS’ COUNCIL FOR ONLINE LEARNING EXCELLENCE (COLE) HONORS EDUCATIONAL INNOVATORS AND CELEBRATES THE SUCCESS OF THE CACE CONSORTIUM

Poteau, OK – The Oklahoma State Regents’ Council for Online Learning Excellence (COLE) recognized exceptional contributions in the field of online education during the State Regents meeting held on Friday, June 2, 2024. Faculty members, an administrator, three college and university teams, and one pioneering college consortium were honored for their outstanding work in enhancing educational access and quality.

Among the notable achievements celebrated was the remarkable success of the CACE consortium, a collaborative initiative involving Carl Albert State College (CASC), Connors State College (CSC), and Eastern Oklahoma State College (EOSC). This partnership has been instrumental in expanding educational access for rural students in southeastern Oklahoma, significantly enhancing academic opportunities and addressing workforce needs in the region.

Through the CACE consortium, the participating institutions have shared approximately 40 courses, directly impacting 637 students and generating annual savings of around $80,000. By pooling resources, including courses and faculty, the consortium has created a more robust and diverse educational offering for students who might otherwise face geographic and logistical barriers to higher education.

“The success of the CACE consortium is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in education,” said CASC President Jay Falkner.  “By working together and leveraging technology, our institutions have made significant strides in making higher education more accessible and affordable for rural communities.”

CACE has implemented a range of innovative solutions to overcome challenges, including hybrid courses and the use of diverse communication platforms such as social media and virtual meetings. These strategies have not only facilitated the sharing of resources but also fostered a more connected and engaged student community.

The State Regents’ Council for Online Learning Excellence is proud to recognize the efforts of the CACE consortium and all the honorees for their dedication to advancing online learning and educational access. Their contributions are making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and the broader community.

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