Seminole State College Professor of Psychology Christal Knowles recently attended the 2021 Oklahoma Academy Town Hall. This year’s event was held at the River Spirit Hotel in Tulsa from Nov. 7-10.

The Oklahoma Academy is a statewide nonprofit, nonpartisan organization established to provide citizens with the opportunity to discuss public policy and make recommendations. The organization was founded by Oklahoma Governor Henry Bellmon in 1967. The organization adopted its Town Hall process in 2001. Since its adoption, the process has led to the passing of 77 pieces of legislation.

This year’s theme was “A Path for a Healthier Oklahoma: Addressing Mental Health and Improving Mental Wellness

SSC President Lana Reynolds nominated Knowles to attend the Town Hall and join a discussion group. Knowles has worked at the College for 12 years. Beyond teaching psychology, she also coordinates the SSC Help Center, a place on campus for students to find support when facing mental health issues.

Knowles served on a panel group during the event. There, along with other attendees, she made recommendations on mental health public policies based on extensive research and questions posed by the event’s organizers.

The Oklahoma Academy will release its official recommendations in January, prior to the legislative session.