27 April 2005

Governor Sebelius appoints Lana Oleen to Midwestern Higher Education Commission

Governor Kathleen Sebelius today announced her appointment of Lana Oleen, retired State Senate Majority Leader, to the Midwestern Higher Education Commission. She will serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

“Lana and I share a commitment to excellence in education,” Governor Sebelius said. “Her first-hand knowledge as a teacher combined with her Legislative experience makes Lana a great addition to this commission. This group will continue working to increase the Midwestern region’s great education opportunities, ensuring a quality workforce in the 21st Century.”

The commission provides greater higher education opportunities and services in the Midwestern region, with the aim of furthering regional access to, research in and choice of higher education for the citizens residing in several states which are parties to this compact.

Oleen, Manhattan, retired last year after serving four terms as a state senator for the 22nd District, which includes Riley and Geary counties. She was elected to serve as Senate Majority Leader in 2000.

A teacher by profession, Oleen was named a Kansas Master Teacher. While serving in the Kansas Legislature, Oleen served as Chair of the Joint Committee on State-Tribal Relations and the Senate Confirmation Oversight Committee. She was also a member of the Senate Education, Judiciary, and Assessment and Taxation committees.

Oleen has served as chair of the audit committee for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. She has been a member of Emporia State University’s Alumni Association Board, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, and the League of Women Voters.