CHADRON, NE – Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, Dr. Paul Turman, has appointed Dr. Jodi Kupper as Interim President of Chadron State College, effective June 10, 2025. Kupper currently serves as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the Nebraska State College System Office and brings 27 years of experience in higher education, including 11 years of leadership experience at the System Office.

Kupper will step into the role following the departure of Dr. Ron Patterson, who has been named the next president of Murray State University. She will serve a nine- to 12-month term while the board establishes a national search strategy and evaluates search firm options to assist the Board of Trustees in identifying candidates to become the next president of Chadron State.

“Dr. Kupper’s leadership and deep understanding of Chadron State and the Nebraska State College System will ensure a smooth transition as we conduct the search for the College’s next president,” said Marjean Terrell, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges.

Turman added, “Dr. Kupper’s experience within the Nebraska State Colleges, coupled with her strong grasp of the state’s educational landscape and strategic partnerships, makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead Chadron State during this transition. Her insight will provide stability and continuity as we move forward.”

Kupper expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, stating, “I am deeply honored by the Board of Trustees and Chancellor Turman's trust in me to serve as Interim President of Chadron State College. I look forward to working collaboratively with the faculty and staff to build on our momentum and advance the College's goals, thereby expanding educational opportunities that empower student success.”

About Jodi Kupper, PhD

Kupper has served the Nebraska State College System as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs since 2014. Previously, she served Peru State College as Dean of the School of Education from 2005 to 2014; Millikin University as Associate Professor of Education and Director of the School of Education from 2003 to 2005, and assistant Professor of Education from 1998 to 2003.

Kupper earned a Bachelor of Science in Education (secondary education) from Wayne State College, a Master of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Nebraska – Omaha, and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Administration, Curriculum, and Instruction from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.