Deb Stockman has been appointed associate vice president for professional studies at Southwestern College. Stockman originally joined the college’s administration in February 2009 as director of marketing and new media in Professional Studies. 
           
In announcing the appointment, President Dick Merriman explained that Stockman will continue to provide high-level direction for Professional Studies marketing while leading the day-to-day operations of Professional Studies.  “This, in turn, will free Karen Pedersen, the college’s vice president for professional studies, to provide more ‘big picture’ leadership for PS and seek new opportunities for Southwestern in serving adult learner,” Merriman added.  
           
“I’m excited to have Deb in this newly created leadership position because she brings great communication, outcomes tracking, management and ‘people’ skills to the position,” said Karen Pedersen, vice president for Professional Studies. “Southwestern College Professional Studies is a ‘people’ organization, so Deb’s keen ability to engage strategies that will help us better serve our learners and other key stakeholders is paramount.  She’s also an innovative entrepreneurial thinker and that’s so essential in this role.”  
           
Stockman has a bachelor of science degree in education from the University of Iowa and a master’s degree in communications from Wichita State University.  Prior to coming to Southwestern College, she worked in marketing for Dean & Deluca and for Sheplers Western Wear.