Indiana Education Secretary Jenner Expected to Lead Higher Education Commission

Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner has been unanimously appointed as the state's Commissioner for Higher Education, a role she will assume on October 11 while continuing to lead the Department of Education. This appointment, part of Governor Mike Braun's vertical restructuring to streamline state government, aims to unify K-12 and higher education leadership to better serve students and taxpayers. Jenner's priorities include increasing college affordability and accessibility, supporting new high school diploma requirements, and aligning higher education programs with workforce needs. She replaces Chris Lowery, who is stepping down due to health reasons and will assist in the transition. Jenner brings extensive experience, including a doctorate in education, an MBA, and previous roles as Senior Education Advisor to Governor Holcomb and leadership positions in community colleges and schools. The commission and Governor Braun emphasize that having a single leader for all education levels will provide consistency and improve outcomes for Indiana students.