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Riverland Community College has named Kim Nelson, a dean of academic affairs for construction trades, transportation and manufacturing. Nelson, who has been an interim dean in that role, will now transfer to the permanent position.

Nelson has been with Riverland for over six years, first serving as the director of grants and alumni relations and then as the director of career and community connections, according to a press release. In these roles she has developed relationships with internal and external partners. She has worked on several initiatives within Riverland and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Some of these initiatives include serving on strategic planning teams, grant teams and becoming a certified poverty coach.

With over 20 years of supervisory and operational management experience, Nelson has provided leadership as a director or administrator of both public and nonprofit institutions.

A familiar face in the area, Nelson chaired the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce board, chaired Noon Kiwanis in Albert Lea and is currently serving as the chair of the Albert Lea School Board and the Albert Lea Education Foundation. She also has worked with Owatonna Forward in Owatonna.

“I am excited that Kim Nelson is taking on the role of academic dean and director of the Albert Lea campus,” said Riverland President Kat Linaker. “Her deep roots in the Albert Lea community will benefit our students and the college. She has worked hard to develop an understanding of the trades and industries in our region and has done an excellent job in the interim role over the last 18 months.”

“I look forward to seeing Kim work with our career technical programming to build better opportunities for our students as they train for their future careers.”

Although Nelson will have her office at the Albert Lea campus where she will continue to serve as the campus director, she will work closely with faculty and staff at the Austin and Owatonna campuses.