New regents leader visits campus

  Thursday, May 21, 2015 2:00 AM
  News

Pittsburg, KS

Blake Flanders visited the Pitt State campus last week as he prepares to step into his new role as the president and CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents. Flanders, who currently serves as the vice president of workforce development for the Board of Regents, begins his new duties on July 1.

“We enjoyed having Dr. Flanders on campus,” said President Steve Scott. “He was very impressed with our university’s progress, and understands the unique connection we share with our community.”

Flanders plans on returning to campus at a later date in order to meet with PSU faculty and staff.

Bruce Dallman, dean of the College of Technology, said he knows the new CEO well.

“I have worked with Dr. Flanders on a number of issues in recent years,” Dallman said. “He understands Pittsburg State University and its mission well and he is a strong supporter of what we do for students, the region and the state.”

Flanders has been at the Board of Regents since 2008. In announcing his appointment, the board described Flanders as a “state leader for issues involving the role of the Kansas postsecondary education system in the development of an educated workforce that aligns with the needs of the Kansas economy.”

Born in Edson, Kan., Flanders is a graduate of Goodland High School, Colby Community College, and Kansas State University, where he earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in animal science and a Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction. Before serving in his current capacity, Flanders served as the liaison between the Kansas Board of Regents and the Kansas Department of Commerce. Previously, he was vice president of instructional services at Manhattan Area Technical College. He began his career in education as a member of the faculty at Butler Community College.

Flanders replaces Andy Tompkins, who retired this year after five years as the president and CEO of the Board of Regents.