Mike Krause is the executive director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), where he leads statewide efforts to improve postsecondary attainment and workforce alignment. Appointed in 2016, Krause has overseen the implementation of Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect, two nationally recognized initiatives aimed at increasing college access and completion. Prior to joining THEC, Krause served as the founding executive director of Tennessee Promise, guiding the program from inception to national prominence.
Krause’s career in public service includes experience in both higher education and the military. He served for eight years in the U.S. Army, including a combat deployment in Iraq, and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal. In higher education, he has held roles at Austin Peay State University and the Tennessee Board of Regents, focusing on student success and academic innovation.
Krause holds a bachelor’s degree from Austin Peay State University and a master’s degree from Peabody College at Vanderbilt University. He is recognized as a leader in education policy and has been featured in national media for his work on college access and completion. Krause resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with his family.
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