Lamar University has reached a milestone in statewide leadership after its chief information officer was elected to the executive leadership of the Lone Star Education and Research Network.

Patrick Stewart, chief information officer at Lamar University, was nominated and unanimously elected to the LEARN Executive Committee during the organization's fourth-quarter in-person Board of Directors meeting. The appointment places Lamar University, alongside Sul Ross State University, on the executive leadership team with some of the largest higher education institutions in Texas.

LEARN supports advanced networking and shared services for universities and research institutions across the state. Through Stewart's role on the executive committee, Lamar University will have a stronger voice in shaping governance decisions related to statewide higher education network services.

"I am excited for the opportunity to represent not only Lamar University and Sul Ross State University, but the entire Texas State University System through this appointment," Stewart said. "Having a seat at the table as state services are designed and maintained allows us to share insight into what our institutions will need moving forward."

Stewart said the role provides an opportunity to contribute at a strategic level, from technology planning to budgeting priorities, while ensuring regional institutions remain active leaders in innovation and collaboration.

"We have the opportunity to be involved from the ground up and help shape those decisions," Stewart said. "I am grateful for the chance to serve and hope to represent our institutions well."

The full list of LEARN Executive Committee members can be viewed here.