Colorado School of Mines graduate student Robert Applegate has been appointed as student representative to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE) Advisory Committee.

Applegate, an Arvada resident and fourth-year graduate student working toward a doctorate degree in applied physics with a minor in applied optics, received his bachelor's degree from Mines in engineering physics with a minor in public affairs for engineers through the Guy T. McBride Jr. Honors Program.

Applegate will likely represent college students in Colorado for a full calendar year.

"I'm excited about the nomination," Applegate said. "I hope to gain a deeper understanding of how the state government works. I also hope to be able to provide insight to the commission and legislators from the standpoint of former undergraduate student, graduate student and alumni."

The commission solicited nominations from the presidents of all Colorado colleges.

Mines president M.W. "Bill" Scoggins said, "Robert cares greatly about Colorado School of Mines and higher education in general. With his enthusiasm and high aspirations, he will not only serve as a fine representative for the students of this state, but for Mines as well."

One of the committee's roles is to suggest solutions for the problems and needs of higher education. Applegate said he hoped to bring the issue of student costs to lawmakers' attention.

"Students don't like paying more in tuition, but they also know the schools are severely under funded," Applegate said."I would like to try to make it known to the legislators and the public as a whole that higher education is valuable to the future of the state.It's an investment just like any other; you need to put in to get a return."