Oklahoma Governor appoints Malayer to Science and Innovation Council

Thursday, November 5, 2020

Governor Kevin Stitt appointed Jerry Malayer, Ph.D., associate dean of research and graduate education at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, to serve on the Governor’s Council on Science and Innovation.

The purpose of the Council is to review all aspects of science and technology within the state including science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and economic development and capital investment in science and technology.

“Our goal is to provide productive input to the state government and higher education leadership that promotes science, technology and innovation across our industries and universities,” Malayer said. “We want to promote partnerships, break down barriers to collaboration and advancement and help communicate Oklahoma’s capabilities and achievements.”

Dr. Carlos Risco, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine said, “I am delighted of Dr. Malayer’s appointment to serve on the Council. His vast experience in research and in his position of associate dean of research in our college will provide innovative ideas to advance science and technology across Oklahoma universities.”

“There is measurable value to Oklahomans in innovations in science and technology,” Malayer said. “We have strengths in our state to deliver on innovation that improves people’s lives and helps drive our economy. We also believe it is important to stress the value of education. We need scientists and engineers also writers, musicians and artists to deliver and communicate these innovations in the future. There are smart people born everywhere, all the time, and our children deserve the opportunity to excel through high-quality experiences in education.

“Oklahoma needs to invest in future innovation through our schools, colleges and universities. This would benefit the business community and the state’s economy. COVID-19 has been a shock to the system and we’ll recover, but we had ground to make up before and it will be even harder now.”

Malayer said the council currently meets monthly but that could vary depending on the agenda. As part of their responsibilities, the council will define and periodically review a Science & Innovation Strategic Plan for the State of Oklahoma. The plan and any proposed changes to existing plans will be presented to the governor.