Patterson named CSC’s 12th president

At Tuesday’s announcement, Nebraska State College System (NSCS) Chancellor Paul Turman explained the selection process and recognized the hours dedicated to the process by external consultants, the Board of Trustees, and members of the Campus Advisory Search Committee.

Outgoing CSC President Randy Rhine said he is excited Patterson is joining CSC.

“I think he's going to be a wonderful addition to campus. I was impressed with him the first time I met him and the responses he had to my questions and the questions he asked me were very much on point. I think he's very committed to being here and helping move Chadron State College into the future,” Rhine said.

Turman said the search began with 63 candidates, which the search advisory committee narrowed to 13 individuals for video conference interviews.

“We were looking for someone who really understands the institution and has the background and experience that you all were looking for,” said Turman before he introduced Patterson.

Eight candidates were invited to Omaha for in-person interviews and following that step, four finalists visited campus in early April.

At the announcement Tuesday, Patterson, the current Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Director of the Presidential Mentors Academy at the University of North Alabama, said he is looking forward to learning more about what CSC means to each individual on campus.

“Today is the start of a new journey that will build upon chapters of long history together as a community. I will visit with each and every one of you eventually. I want to hear your stories and what Chadron State College means to you,” Patterson said.

He said he is eager to share in CSC traditions and explore the ways the institution impacts individuals and the region.

“We look forward to exploring and getting involved in the community to build new relationships, to further appreciate the rich heritage that is the High Plains. As we look forward, my vision for Chadron State College is to build upon a strong sense of community and resilience to adversity,” he said.

Patterson said he looks forward to establishing new partnerships locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. He also plans to continue to embrace and cultivate a campus environment that values diversity and inclusion, and he intends to put students first.

“There's no place I'd rather be. As President, I will demonstrate a deep commitment to students first and foremost,” Patterson concluded.

Patterson’s wife, Jenny, a native of Wisconsin, teaches elementary school and coaches soccer. The couple’s daughter, Olivia, is a senior who has signed to play soccer at the University of North Alabama. Their son, Braylon, is in the seventh grade.