SCCC Invites Public to Meet Vice President of Student Affairs Finalists

— Seward County Community College invites the community to meet the two finalists for the college’s Vice President of Student Affairs position. A nationwide search brought 16 strong candidates to the process. The interview committee selected six semi-finalists for Zoom interviews, then invited two finalists to campus.

“We encourage the community to come out to meet them at public forums,” said SCCC President Brad Bennett.

Dr. Jason Kegler will participate in a public forum at 1:15 p.m. on March 29 in the SCCC Library.

Dr. Mike Adkins II will participate in a public forum at 1:15 p.m. on March 30 in the SCCC Library.

“We know these are busy days on campus, with the Career Fair and SCCC Foundation annual meeting on March 29, and Saints & Seniors Day on March 30,” Bennett noted. Even so, “it’s a great opportunity for candidates to experience the culture of our campus, and our community engagement.”

The college’s schedule for each candidate includes tours, meetings with students, faculty, staff, and interview sessions with the hiring committee, President’s cabinet, and executive team.

Kegler is currently Associate Vice President for Student Life at Pittsburg State University. A lifelong Kansan, he is a graduate of the University of Saint Mary, Fort Hays State University, and Baker University, with degrees in psychology, organizational leadership, and an Ed.D in educational leadership. In addition to his work in higher education, Kegler is a Sheriff’s Deputy for the Allen County Sheriff’s Office in Iola.

Adkins is currently the Director of Academic and Career Advising and Title V Project Director at Wharton County Junior College in Wharton, Texas. Adkins earned degrees at Christopher Newport University (bachelor of arts, philosophy), The University of Virginia (master of education, student affairs practice in higher education), and The College of Wiliam and Mary (doctor of education in higher education policy, planning and leadership).

Bennett expressed appreciation for the many applications from “high-quality candidates in higher ed,” and added that the VPSA search is bittersweet.

“We appreciate Celeste Donovan’s hard work during her years as Vice President of Student Services,” he said. “Her retirement is well-earned, especially with projects she has completed specifically with this transition in mind, and we’ll miss her.”

Looking ahead, he invited the community to attend the forums slated for Wednesday and Thursday.

“Let’s show our Saint’s spirit through the community,” he said.