Sebelius names Debra Nichols to the
Postsecondary Technical Education Authority

Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed Debra Nichols as a member of the Postsecondary Technical Education Authority.

“Right now there are more than 15,000 jobs for Kansans with technical training or training beyond high school,” Sebelius said. “This authority works with Kansas community colleges and technical institutions to prepare students to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Nichols, Lawrence, earned a degree in biology from the University of Southern Illinois and both a master’s and doctorate degree in food science from the University of Illinois. Currently, Nichols is the vice president of science and technology at Hill’s Pet Nutrition in Topeka.

At Hill’s, Nichols works to identify the future needs of businesses and translate them into useful products. Responsible for more than 180 employees, more than 30 contract services and a world-class science and technology center, Nichols brings industry experience and technical knowledge to this commission.

The Postsecondary Technical Education Authority makes recommendations to the Kansas Board of Regents concerning state-wide planning for postsecondary technical education as well as new and existing programs.

The authority is also responsive to the education and training needs of business and industry in order to provide an educated workforce to meet the demands of the Kansas economy.

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