Recognizing Raymund A. Paredes for his 15-year tenure as a Commissioner of Higher Education.
Under Dr. Paredes' leadership, Texas saw notable improvements in student access and completion rates. He is known for advocating for policies like the 60x30TX plan, which aims to increase postsecondary completion rates and adapt to the evolving needs of the workforce. His commitment to educational equity and opportunity for all Texans has significantly influenced state educational policies and resource allocation, transforming higher education in the state.
Senate Resolution No. 180 honors Dr. Raymund A. Paredes for his exceptional 15-year tenure as the Texas Commissioner of Higher Education, concluding on August 31, 2019. Dr. Paredes' impressive qualifications include degrees from The University of Texas at Austin and the University of Southern California, alongside extensive experience in the higher education sector, including significant roles at the University of California, Los Angeles. His role as the chief executive officer of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board involved managing resources and policies aimed at improving Texas's educational landscape.
Dr. Paredes' tenure was marked by significant achievements such as revising developmental education, implementing an outcomes-based funding model, and fostering partnerships between various educational agencies to improve educational outcomes. However, his initiatives also sparked discussions regarding the balance of funding and the focus on measurable outcomes, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about the direction of higher education in Texas. The resolution recognizes his success while acknowledging the complexities in the educational landscape.