Dr. Richard A. Hanson, president of Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College, today announced that Dr. James Parker has been named vice president for student development and enrollment at Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College.

Parker served as vice president for student affairs at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania last year. As the chief student affairs officer, he oversaw all aspects of student affairs for the university. Prior to Mansfield, Parker held multiple roles in student affairs at Texas Christian University and the University of Oklahoma and spent three years as dean of students at the University of South Dakota.

“James has the experience and the perspective to take us to the next step with fiscally responsible enrollment management, with strategic planning and with our students’ residential experience,” Hanson said.

Parker holds a bachelor of arts and a master of education from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Texas Christian University.

He will begin his role as Bemidji State’s vice president for student development and enrollment on July 1. Parker will be the senior student affairs officer for both Bemidji State and Northwest Technical College, overseeing student life activities such as the Hobson Memorial Union and residential life; student services including career services and student health and counseling; new-student programs such as admissions and orientation; the International Program Center; and the American Indian Resource Center.

“The chance to work with a dedicated community of staff, faculty, students and friends of the institution is incredibly exciting,” Parker said. “I look forward to leading the Division of Student Development and Enrollment as the college and university provide our students with the best possible education experience.”

Dr. Mary Ward has served as BSU’s interim vice president for student development and enrollment since August of 2011.