COLUMBUS – State Representative Clyde Evans (R-Rio Grande) stood shoulder-to-shoulder with career college students earlier this year to champion their share of the Ohio College Opportunity Grant program.

For his strong voice of support, the Ohio Association of Career Colleges and Schools gave Rep. Evans the Ohio Distinguished Government Service Award for 2009.

“During the state budget battle, Rep. Evans chose to publicly stand up for these students and their families,” said David Rankin, executive director for the OACCS. “His support was important and was deeply appreciated by the 297 career colleges and schools in Ohio. Even though we ultimately lost our share of the OCOG funds for this biennium, we remain grateful to Rep. Evans for his willingness to fight on behalf of our students. ”

The award was given during the association’s annual meeting and workshop at the Quest Business Center at Polaris. More than 400 representatives from career colleges and schools throughout Ohio attended the event.

According to a recent study by Underwood & Associates, while Ohio career colleges represent only about 12 percent of all the state’s 2007/2008 college graduates, they account for a third of all the health and computer majors, two occupations projected to be among the fastest growing jobs in Ohio through 2016.

The approved state budget for 2010-2011 significantly reduced the Ohio College Opportunity Grant program, eliminating funds for students who attend career colleges and schools. OACCS members advocated for equality among students seeking financial aid for higher education opportunities.

Evans is currently serving in his fourth term in the Ohio House of Representatives, where he represents the 87th District, which includes Gallia, Jackson and Vinton counties, as well as portions of Lawrence and Ross counties.

Prior to becoming an elected official, Evans spent the majority of his career in education working as a teacher, school counselor and principal.