Listen to this articleSenator Kristen Thompson (R-Edmond) was recently awarded the 2024 Distinguished Service Award by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Council of Presidents of Public Colleges and Universities.
Senator Thompson received the Trailblazers Award for her work in promoting legislation supporting higher education initiatives, including bills that better align the workforce with higher education and economic development. She was also honored for Senate Bill 1786, which addresses the name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights of college student athletes.
The legislation is a so-called “initiative bill” that will allow universities in Oklahoma to pay student athletes if the league they play in allows it or if federal law changes. Senator Thompson’s bill was signed into law earlier this year.
“I am pleased to receive this recognition from the State Regents for Higher Education,” said Senator Thompson. “One of my goals since taking office has been to improve all forms of education and better align our workforce with our education system. This will add value to our state and make Oklahoma more attractive to companies looking to relocate or expand. I have also been watching national trends in student-athletes and the ever-evolving NIL rules and want to ensure we are proactive, not reactive. Senate Bill 1786 will ensure our universities can recruit the best and brightest athletes while remaining nationally competitive.
“Receiving this award shows me that I am doing what I set out to do from day one. I congratulate and thank all the other award winners and those who have helped me grow into my role as Senator and push through important legislation.”
Senator Thompson serves on the Senate Committee on Education and is Vice Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Education Appropriations. She is also Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce.
Click here to learn more about the Distinguished Service Awards.
