Regional Economic Development

The Small Business Development Corporation for the entire State of Kansas reported directly to me as Provost at FHSU. This organization has a network of SBDC offices located throughout the state, mainly at State Universities (including FHSU) and community colleges. I met regularly with my director and approved all major expenditures, annual budgets and its strategic plan. In 2015 this organization had the following economic impact in Kansas: 2,555 jobs created/retained; $123.79m new business sales; and $88.6m in new business capital raised.

I developed the bylaws for a regional Economic Development Committee at FHSU. In addition, I have also:

- been an invited speaker at the Radford and Hays Chambers of Commerce and other community groups like the Rotary Club.
- participated in tours of the community with local business men and women.
- had significant experience working with the Ben Franklin organization in Pennsylvania which helps high tech companies develop from university research
- had experience working with local employers to create residency opportunities for students and raising program funding.