Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra Elected Vice Chair of Midwestern Higher Education Compact

Minnesota State Chancellor Devinder Malhotra was elected the vice chair of the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC) on November 9, during the Compact's Annual Commission Meeting, held in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

One of four regional higher education compacts in the United States, MHEC brings together midwestern states to develop and support best practices, collaborative efforts, and cost-sharing opportunities. Through these efforts it works to ensure strong, equitable postsecondary educational opportunities and outcomes for all.

"We look forward to Dr. Malhotra and his leadership as our vice chair for the compact.” said Susan Heegaard, MHEC president. His deep experience in higher education and commitment to affording opportunity and success to a diverse range of students will be an incredible asset to our region as we move forward with our strategic plan.”

Also elected were Rep. Rick Carfagna, assistant majority floor leader of the Ohio House of Representatives, who will serve as chair; and Sen. V.J. Smith, South Dakota Legislature, who will serve as treasurer; and Dr. David Eisler, president of Ferris State University in Michigan, who will serve as past chair.

“I am honored by the confidence my colleagues have shown in me by electing me to serve in this capacity,” said Malhotra. “I look forward to working with Chair Carfagna and all of the MHEC leadership as we continue to leverage the power of collaboration to ensure quality and equity in higher education for all.” Malhotra served as MHEC treasurer this past year. While Malhotra could not attend in person, he was able to give the Finance and Audit Committee report virtually.

MHEC’s states are synonymous with the Midwest census region states, and Minnesota has been a member since the Compact’s creation in 1991. Dr. Malhotra, who has served as a MHEC commissioner since 2017. He is joined by additional Minnesota commissioners: Rep. Connie Bernardy, chair of the Higher Education Finance and Policy Division for the Minnesota House of Representatives; Dr. Michael Goh, vice president for equity and diversity for the University of Minnesota; and Mr. Dennis Olson, commissioner for the Minnesota Office of Higher Education; and Sen. David Tomassoni, President pro tem and Chair, Higher Education Finance & Policy Committee for the Minnesota Senate. Mr. Paul Cerkvenik, president of the Minnesota Private College Council, serves as a commissioner alternate.