LA GRANDE — Eastern Oregon University President Kelly Ryan will take part in a panel exploring the role regional universities play in preparing students and community for the evolving job market.

The panel, which will take place at 11 a.m. on April 22, will be hosted by Ian Wilhelm, deputy managing editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education, according to a press release.

“Regional universities are not only educating future leaders — they are shaping local economies,” Ryan said. “At Eastern Oregon University, we’re working with community partners and industries to ensure that our students are ready to contribute and succeed in high-impact careers.”

Ryan will be joined by Zulma Toro, president of Central Connecticut State University, and Charles Welch, president and CEO of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.

Panelists will discuss how regional universities are helping equip students with highly demanded job skills, building employer partnerships and adapting graduate programs.

Eastern has been recognized for its workforce development initiatives — recently securing more than $1.5 million in technology workforce grants to help advance education and training for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and science, technology, engineering and mathematics careers.

The virtual forum is free to attend and will include a Q&A section from the audience. Registration is required online at tinyurl.com/mt6kzsjw.