The Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges voted Monday to appoint Dr. Jodi Kupper as the next President of Chadron State College, removing the “interim” designation from her title and affirming their full confidence in her leadership and vision for the College’s future.
After surfacing as a finalist during the 2023 Chadron State Presidential search, Kupper was selected to serve as interim president in June. Her years of experience with the Nebraska State College System and familiarity with Nebraska and the region allowed her to make an immediate impact on shaping the direction of the college.
“From day one, Dr. Kupper brought clarity, momentum, and a deep commitment to Chadron State’s success,” said Board Vice Chair Marjean Terrell. “Her results speak louder than any résumé. With her leadership, Chadron State is moving forward with purpose and optimism. The right leader is already here.”
Trustee Danny Renaga added, “Dr. Kupper has reignited energy across the campus and community. She’s earned the confidence of everyone around her, and in my opinion, she’s already proven she’s the right person for the job.”
Chancellor Paul Turman said the Board’s decision comes at a pivotal time for Chadron State and reflects confidence in Dr. Kupper’s ability to lead decisively.
“The time for action is now,” Turman said. “Chadron State is at an important crossroads, and we need strong, steady leadership to keep building momentum. Dr. Kupper understands the challenges ahead and has already begun positioning the College for success. Her vision, collaboration, and results-oriented approach are exactly what Chadron State needs to move forward.”
Since becoming interim president, Dr. Kupper has:
- Reenergized strategic planning, reactivating the Strategic Planning Task Force and advancing a comprehensive plan for Board approval in early 2026.
- Strengthened enrollment initiatives through a Strategic Enrollment Management plan with measurable goals for growth across all student populations.
- Reestablished critical partnerships with key stakeholders in the region.
“Dr. Kupper leads with both vision and heart,” said Terrell. “Her deep understanding of the NSCS mission and her focus on results make her exactly the kind of leader Chadron State needs for the future.”
Dr. Kupper expressed gratitude for the appointment and optimism about the College’s direction.
“I’m deeply honored by the Board’s confidence and excited to continue leading this extraordinary community,” Kupper said. “Chadron State’s strength lies in its people, their passion, dedication, and belief in our mission. Together, we are building on our momentum to create new opportunities and a bright future for our students and the region we serve.”
About Dr. Jodi Kupper
Dr. Kupper has served as Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for the Nebraska State College System since 2014. Previously, she served at Peru State College as Dean of the School of Education from 2005 to 2014, and at Millikin University as Associate Professor of Education and Director of the School of Education from 2003 to 2005, and as 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.
Contact:
Judi Yorges, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Communications
402.471.2505 | jyorges@nscs.edu
