Regional college presidents gather for first Presidents' Higher Education Summit
RAPID CITY -- Presidents from the higher education institutions in western South Dakota and Nebraska gathered March 29 for the Presidents’ Higher Education Summit in Rapid City. Among the topics of conversation were current and future collaborations among the seven schools, identifying a list of higher education options in the region and possibly sharing adjunct professors.
Attending the first ever West River Higher Education Summit were:
Dr. Tom Jackson, Jr., President of Black Hills State University in Spearfish, Dr. Randy Rhine, President of Chadron State College in Chadron, Neb., Dr. Ronald Shape, President of National American University in Rapid City, Dr. Lionel Bordeaux, President of Sinte Gleska University in Mission, Dr. James Rankin, President of South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City, Dr. Ann Bolman, President of Western Dakota Tech in Rapid City, and President Thomas Shortbull, Oglala Lakota College in Kyle.
“This group of leaders represents an extremely diverse group of education providers,” said Jackson. “From regional universities, to a technical institute, a for-profit institution, and tribal colleges, it’s very special that all of us were able to come together to talk about issues affecting students and faculty.”
The Summit was a comprehensive approach to ensure the best options are available for all students while meeting workforce needs in the region. The collaborative approach will ultimately create more opportunities for students, a better environment for the state’s economy, and a higher quality of life for all residents.
“We are different institutions but we share common ground and common issues. For example, we will continue to educate students but the tools and technology we use to do so will continue to change. Knowing each of these leaders shares that interest and that concern is important,” said Rhine.
The group will meet bi-monthly to discuss higher education initiatives. The next meeting is scheduled in Chadron, Neb.
Category: Campus News, Office of the President