Shane Broadway To Join Arkansas State University As VP For Governmental Relations

Arkansas Department of Higher Education director Shane Broadway has been appointed vice president for governmental relations for the Arkansas State University System.

Talk Business & Politics reported last week that Broadway was a leading candidate for the job.

Broadway, a former Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives and State Senator, has served as director of ADHE and a member of Gov. Mike Beebe’s cabinet since February 2011.

His starting date with ASU has not been determined, but he is expected to continue in his current role through the Jan. 30 meeting of the Higher Education Coordinating Board. He succeeds Robert Evans, who is retiring after 16 years of service.

“Shane brings to us an ideal blend of experience as a former legislator who is very knowledgeable about higher education and the processes of state government,” said ASU System President Dr. Charles L. Welch. “He is also an alumnus and former student body president at Arkansas State, so he has a great love for his alma mater and shares our vision for growth and service to students. I have been particularly impressed by his ability to work in a non-partisan manner at the State Capitol.”

Gov.-elect Asa Hutchinson had offered Broadway the opportunity to remain in his role with ADHE. Welch said he and Broadway notified Hutchinson of the decision.

“We appreciate Gov.-elect Hutchinson’s understanding of Shane’s desire to serve his alma mater in this capacity,” Welch said. “We will all work closely with the Hutchinson administration to help ensure a smooth transition at ADHE and to continue efforts toward increasing the number of college graduates and enhancing workforce training in Arkansas.

“For almost four years I have had the honor to serve at the Department of Higher Education, our colleges and universities, and members of the Higher Education Coordinating Board,” said Broadway, who also serves on the Governor’s Workforce Cabinet. “We have dedicated ourselves to work in a nonpartisan way to collaborate with stakeholders around Arkansas to increase opportunities and to improve outcomes for students. Now I look forward to taking my experience and relationships from all levels of government to the ASU System. I’m grateful for the opportunity Dr. Welch is giving me.

“As an alumnus, it’s an honor to return to the place that gave me my opportunity for a higher education,” Broadway added. “This opportunity will allow me to give back and make a difference in the lives of others like me who will pass through the doors of the ASU System campuses.”