Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner could soon be serving in a dual role as Commissioner of Higher Education.
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education is set to vote on Jenner’s appointment, recommended by Gov. Mike Braun, in a special meeting at noon Friday in Indianapolis. She will remain as secretary of education.
The appointment would be effective Oct. 11.
Braun said Jenner serving in two key education leadership positions would add consistency to the state’s approach to education.
“As we continue to identify ways to better serve Hoosier taxpayers, having a proven, consistent leader directly overseeing both K-12 and higher education is the logical next step and will ensure that the best interest of our students remains top of mind every step of their educational journey,” Braun said in a statement.
According to a release, Jenner will focus on affordability and accessibility, increasing educational attainment and assisting high school students to earn college credit.
Also, she’ll support the roll out of the new high school diploma requirements; ensure higher education programs prepare teachers with evidence-based tools in reading and math and streamline higher education degree programs to align with student and industry demands.
The state approved the new diploma last year and it goes into effect in 2029. Students are already taking courses to align with the diploma standards.
Jenner would replace Chris Lowery, who’s been commissioner since 2022. He endorsed her nomination.
“The logical next step of Secretary Jenner assuming the role of Commissioner will offer clarity and consistency for the Commission, while continuing to drive our mission and deliver better results for Indiana students, employers, and our state.”
Jenner has served as Indiana’s top K-12 education official since 2021 when she was tapped by former Gov. Eric Holcomb.
Braun kept her in that role after he became governor in January.
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Jenner received a doctorate in education from the University of Kentucky and an MBA from Indiana State University.
She served as Holcomb’s senior education advisor, vice president of K-12 Initiatives and Statewide Partnerships for Ivy Tech Community College.
She also held various leadership positions at Madison Consolidated Schools, where she was also a teacher.
Carole Carlson is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.