The students and faculty of Western Dakota Tech continue to mourn the loss of president Ann Bolman, who died unexpectedly late last month. In the meantime, business and learning must continue.
After Bolman’s death, VP of finance and operations Christine Goldsmith was named the interim president. Previously, she’s worked in economic development and municipal government.
She said through heartache, work never stops.
“We are moving forward in a positive way to do the types of things she always wanted to see," Goldsmith said. "There’s been a lot of support from everyone here on campus, so we feel a lot of momentum. A lot of support.”
Many items Bolman advocated for, like the Build Dakota Scholarship, continue to help students advance their careers. Goldsmith says they just celebrated 10 years of the program.
“That is an exciting program," Goldsmith said. "It is a free-ride scholarship here at the two-year colleges. It really emphasizes the importance of affordable education in so many different types of skilled professions and trade programs. We’re able to do even more to make college affordable for even more students.”
Now, as Goldsmith settles into the role, she said she’s prioritizing affordability and the upcoming enrollment season.
“We have quite a few students that have already enrolled for spring, and we’re looking to make sure we get the word out about enrollment opportunities that are there and the different programs folks can start in spring," Goldsmith said. "Looking to get started with new programs and change their lives.”
After the unexpected death of Bolman, president of Western Dakota Technical College, her legacy was enshrined with a scholarship program at the institution.
But it also lives on in many of her tenure’s staff hires, which includes the acting president.
“You need to take a little bit of time to reflect on yourself personally and process that, but we’re here to help students reach their dreams," Goldsmith said. "That mission that we have, that vision that we have is still intact, and that’s the legacy Dr. Bolman left here.”
Goldsmith said she has nothing but fond memories of Bolman’s time.
“She was such a role model, she was such a fierce advocate for students and the opportunities that are available to change your life, to invest in yourself," Goldsmith said. "With grit, and determination and training you can do this for yourself. I think that’s everywhere you look on campus.”
Spring registration at WDT takes place through January.