Paul Risser, former chairman of OU's Department of Botany and Microbiology, has returned to the state and will serve as chancellor of The Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. Risser, who will take office Jan. 6, has three key issues he wants to incorporate in the state's institutes of higher learning.

Risser said it is important that the state have enough money to provide adequate financial aid and scholarships for its students. He said he wants to see an increase in the quality of programs offered at universities so students will have several choices available. In addition, Risser said he wants current research programs to continue to grow stronger.

Another issue for Risser to consider is budget cuts.

"Institutions are well along the way in how to manage those (budget cuts)," Risser said. "The economy is changing rapidly."

He said regenerating the budget is on his agenda and that universities offer the fastest return on investments.

Also a concern in the state is its college graduates. Several students leave Oklahoma after graduation to put their degrees to work in other states.

"Obviously, we want our graduates to stay here," Risser said. "We have make sure we start linking our students to businesses in the area. Students should understand what's available to them in Oklahoma."

Risser said college curriculums should be in tune with state businesses. He said there should be a close, working relationship between the two, something he looks forward to helping get established.

When considering out-of-state students, Risser said not only does he want to retain these students, but said they enrich college education. Though some taxpayers feel there isn't a return on out-of-state students once they graduate and go back to their homes, Risser said he believes these students pay their fair share.

Risser said out-of-state students provide diversity for colleges, another issue he wants to address. With admission standards increasing at OU, some argue that minority enrollment will decrease and OU will become an elitist university.

Risser said he hasn't yet thought of a plan to keep state schools racially diverse, but said this is an issue that is very important to him.

"There needs to be a very clear mechanism to come to school," Risser said.

Whether their plan is to transfer from community college or come straight from high school, Risser said he wants to see these students continue to apply.

When considering today's college students, he said he likes that they are independent in decision-making.

"The economy is rapidly changing," Risser said. "(College students) should learn to lead and be led."

State Regents Chairman Carl Renfro said the state is fortunate to have Risser as chancellor.

"We're excited," Renfro said. "He won't miss a beat after Hans Brisch retires. I know he will continue the high level of education that we have in Oklahoma."

According to a statement, Joe Mayer, who chaired the search committee, said Risser has the strong support of the State Regents.

"He has a broad perspective and vision, and we fully expect him to be a major contributor to the development of the state's intellectual capital."

Risser said he is looking forward to serving Oklahoma. Risser will be the state's sixth chancellor. He has served as president of Oregon State University and Miami University in Ohio.
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