Topeka ? For a higher education board focused on state budget cuts and three top-level administrative searches, there’s some room for thinking about improving education, too.

That was the message Kansas Board of Regents heard Wednesday from Reggie Robinson, Regents president and CEO.

Robinson outlined proposed goals and benchmarks for the state to meet as it compares itself nationally.

For instance, one such goal Robinson proposed was to become among the top 10 states nationally in young adults who have an associate’s degree or higher.

“Ultimately, these numbers can help us to attract more high-quality employers to the state,” Robinson told regents.

Regents expressed satisfaction with some of the goals. But, as Regent Jerry Boettcher pointed out, they must be reasonable.

“We shouldn’t have a goal that’s almost unattainable,” he said.

Robinson said the board wanted to engage adult learners and minority groups in the higher education process, as well.

The board is examining these questions as a part of an ongoing process that will outline priorities for its institutions to meet in the future.