DURANT, Okla. --­ Southeastern Oklahoma State University is determined to provide its students with a competitive advantage when they seek employment.

With that in mind, Southeastern has recently established "The Center for Rhetoric and Professional Development," an initiative that is funded by an external grant.

According to Skip Robinson, director of the Center, the mission of the Center is two-fold: to provide an opportunity for Southeastern students to gain a competitive advantage by developing elevated skill levels in the written and spoken word; and  to provide guidance and encouragement to pre-professional students as they prepare for  entry exams or as they enter the workforce.

"We believe this is a unique, forward-thinking program and one that will truly benefit our students," said Robinson, who has taught English at Southeastern for the past several years, and prior to that, was an executive-level business manager.

The Center's office is located in room 114 of the Science Building.

The design of the Center is to complement the curriculum of the university that is already in place and to give the students one last "polishing" before leaving campus.

Classes at the Center will begin this spring.

The Center has an Advisory Council, representing various disciplines on campus, as well as community business leaders. Council members include Dr. Paula Allen, English, Languages and Humanities; Dr. Theresa Hrncir, John Massey School of Business; Dr. C. Henry Gold, University Development; Mr. Tommy Kramer, Durant Industrial Authority; Mr. Ron Bennett, Landmark Bank; Mr. Dell McLain, Art, Communication and Theatre; Dr. Melanie Price, Educational Instruction and Leadership; Dr. Loide Wasmund,  Chemistry, Computer and Physical Sciences;  Mr. Skip Robinson, Center Director; and Dr. Bryon Clark,  Dean of the Graduate School and University Studies, an ex-officio member.