(a) There is established an Office of Higher Education. The Office of Higher Education shall administer the programs set forth in sections 10-155d, 10a-10a, 10a-11, 10a-11a, 10a-17d, 10a-19g, 10a-34 to 10a-34f, inclusive, 10a-35, 10a-166, 10a-168a, 10a-169a, 10a-169b and 10a-173. The Office of Higher Education shall be responsible for approving any action taken pursuant to sections 10a-34 to 10a-34f, inclusive, and for disseminating information throughout the state regarding postsecondary education opportunities available in the state.

(b) The Governor shall appoint an executive director of the Office of Higher Education in accordance with the provisions of sections 4-5 to 4-8, inclusive. The executive director shall have the responsibility for implementing the policies and directives of the office.