Kansas Board of Regents KBOR

Overview

The Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) is the governing body for public higher education in Kansas, overseeing 32 institutions, including six state universities, one municipal university, 19 community colleges, and six technical colleges. Established on July 1, 1925, KBOR is tasked with coordinating and enhancing the state's public postsecondary education system to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce.

History and Legal Framework

KBOR was created to provide centralized governance for Kansas's public higher education institutions. In 1964, Wichita State University joined the Board, increasing the number of state universities under its governance to six. A 1966 constitutional amendment expanded the Board to nine members, solidifying its authority over public higher education in Kansas. Over the years, KBOR has adapted to changes in the educational landscape, including the integration of community colleges and technical colleges into its oversight.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives

Mission: KBOR aims to pursue measurable continuous improvement in the quality and effectiveness of Kansas's public postsecondary educational system, while expanding participation for all qualified Kansans.

Vision: To be a dynamic and responsive higher education system that supports student success and meets the state's workforce needs.

Objectives:

• Enhance the quality of educational programs and services.
• Increase access to higher education for all qualified individuals.
• Align academic offerings with state and national workforce demands.
• Promote accountability and transparency in institutional operations.
• Advocate for policies that support the growth and sustainability of public higher education in Kansas.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

KBOR is composed of nine members appointed by the Governor of Kansas and confirmed by the Kansas Senate. The Board operates independently, with a President and CEO responsible for day-to-day operations. The Board's structure includes various councils and committees that address specific areas such as academic affairs, fiscal affairs, and workforce development. This governance model ensures that KBOR remains responsive to the needs of students, institutions, and the broader community.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

KBOR plays a crucial role in the accreditation and quality evaluation of Kansas's public higher education institutions. While the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) serves as the regional accrediting agency, KBOR collaborates with HLC to ensure that institutions meet established standards of academic quality and institutional effectiveness. KBOR also oversees the approval of private and out-of-state postsecondary institutions operating within Kansas, conducting administrative reviews and evaluations to ensure compliance with state regulations and quality standards.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

KBOR is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), which facilitates interstate cooperation in the regulation of postsecondary distance education programs. This membership allows Kansas institutions to offer online programs to students in other participating states, broadening access to higher education. KBOR's involvement in NC-SARA reflects its commitment to expanding educational opportunities beyond state borders.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

KBOR continues to influence the landscape of higher education in Kansas through initiatives aimed at improving student success, increasing enrollment, and aligning academic programs with workforce needs. The Board's focus on accountability and resource allocation ensures that public institutions remain effective stewards of state resources. Looking ahead, KBOR is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education in Kansas, adapting to emerging trends and challenges in the educational sector.

Summary

The Kansas Board of Regents is a vital entity in the governance and coordination of public higher education in Kansas. Through its oversight of 32 institutions, KBOR strives to enhance the quality, accessibility, and relevance of higher education in the state. Its collaborative approach to accreditation, commitment to accountability, and engagement in national initiatives underscore its dedication to fostering an educational environment that meets the needs of students and the workforce.

FAQs

1. What is the Kansas Board of Regents?

   The Kansas Board of Regents is the governing body for public higher education in Kansas, overseeing 32 institutions, including six state universities, one municipal university, 19 community colleges, and six technical colleges.

2. When was the Kansas Board of Regents established?

   The Kansas Board of Regents was established on July 1, 1925, to provide centralized governance for Kansas's public higher education institutions.

3. How many members are on the Kansas Board of Regents?

   The Kansas Board of Regents is composed of nine members, each appointed by the Governor of Kansas and confirmed by the Kansas Senate.

4. What is the role of the Kansas Board of Regents in accreditation?

   The Kansas Board of Regents collaborates with the Higher Learning Commission to ensure that Kansas's public higher education institutions meet established standards of academic quality and institutional effectiveness. It also oversees the approval of private and out-of-state postsecondary institutions operating within Kansas.

5. Is the Kansas Board of Regents involved in international initiatives?

   Yes, the Kansas Board of Regents is a member of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), facilitating interstate cooperation in the regulation of postsecondary distance education programs.