The OMA this week submitted support testimony for Senate Bill 181, sponsored by Sen. Bill Coley (R-Liberty Township). The bill would direct the chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education to create a template for workforce-education partnership programs. SB 181 is based off the partnership developed in Butler County between county employers and Miami University — and its regional campuses across the county. The aim of the model is to have students/employees graduate without student loan debt. Local employers, including manufacturers, pay for tuition and housing for students who work part time while pursing their higher education credentials. In similar programs across the country, companies utilizing such programs have seen higher retention, while education providers have experienced higher graduation rates. 10/3/2019