Panelists PANELISTS
DR. RUSSELL EVANS Dean of the College of Business, University of Central Oklahoma
DR. SHAWN HIME Executive Director, Oklahoma State School Boards Association
Dr. Russell Evans was recently appointed Dean of the College of Business at the University of Central Oklahoma while continuing as Partner and Chief Economist at Thorberg Collectorate. A highly regarded business analyst and economic communicator, he works closely with cities, tribes, and industry groups across the region. He also serves as a Trustee and Investment Committee Chair for the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. Dr. Evans enjoys time with his wife, Amanda, and their five kids, along with soccer, golf, fly fishing, and active service in his church and community.
Dr. Shawn Hime has served as executive director of the Oklahoma State School Boards Association since 2014, following six years as superintendent of Enid Public Schools. Over the course of his career, he has worked as a teacher and administrator and previously served as assistant state superintendent at the Oklahoma State Department of Education, where he oversaw areas including state aid, school finance, transportation and personnel records, and collaborated with legislators on education policy. A respected leader in public education, Hime has received multiple statewide honors and has served on numerous state and national education boards and task forces. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from East Central University and a doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.
MIKE FINA Executive Director, Oklahoma Municipal League
CHRIS SCHRODER Executive Director, Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma
Mike Fina serves as Executive Director of the Oklahoma Municipal League (OML), where he represents and advocates for the interests of cities and towns across Oklahoma. In his role, he works closely with municipal leaders and state policymakers on issues including public finance, infrastructure, and local governance. His career has been dedicated to strengthening municipalities and ensuring local governments have the resources needed to serve their communities.
Chris Schroder is the Executive Director of the Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma (ACCO), representing county governments statewide. He leads advocacy efforts on behalf of counties at the state and federal levels, focusing on funding, transportation, public safety, and infrastructure priorities. Schroder brings extensive experience in public service and county administration, working to support effective and sustainable county operations.
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State Spotlight 2026
Greater Oklahoma City Chamber
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