OKLAHOMA CITY – The State Chamber of Oklahoma announced today Sen. Clark Jolley is the recipient of its annual Guardians of Free Enterprise award for his dedicated work to grow Oklahoma’s economy and create more jobs in the state.

The award, which was announced today at The State Chamber’s annual Public Affairs Forum, recognizes Sen. Jolley’s efforts to ensure Oklahoma’s students are prepared to compete in the 21st Century economy. This year, Sen. Jolley authored key education reform bills such as ending social promotion and revising the school evaluation method to an easy-to-understand A-F system.

Additionally, Sen. Jolley also authored and played an instrumental role in the update of the Oklahoma Employment Discrimination Act.

Sen. Jolley was first elected to serve Edmond in Senate District 41 in 2004 and serves as Majority Assistant Floor leader. He was also recently named chairman of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee.

“Sen. Clark Jolley recognizes the need to grow Oklahoma’s economy and create more jobs in his district and statewide. He is always willing to go the extra mile when it comes to authoring bills that have a profoundly positive impact on our state,” said Fred Morgan, President and CEO of The State Chamber. “We are proud to recognize his efforts and show our sincere appreciation of his hard work with this distinguished award.”

Reps. Dan Sullivan, R-Tulsa, and Skye McNiel, R-Bristow, in the House and Sen. Anthony Sykes, R-Oklahoma City, were also recipients of the State Chamber’s 2011 Guardians of Free Enterprise award.

The State Chamber of Oklahoma represents more than 2,100 Oklahoma businesses and 400,000 employees and has served as the state’s leading advocate for business since 1926.