BOARD: Jade Elise Herman, Ed.D.

Dr. Jade Herman is an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe and grew up in Mission, South Dakota. She holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary sciences from South Dakota Mines, a master’s degree in administrative studies with a specialization in organizational leadership from the University of South Dakota, and a Doctor of Education in interdisciplinary leadership from Creighton University.

In 2011, Dr. Herman returned to South Dakota Mines as a staff member, holding various public relations positions before transitioning to the Office of the President in 2016. She was named the university’s first ever chief of staff in the fall of 2021 and now serves on the executive leadership team. In this role, Dr. Herman manages the administrative, budgetary, and operational functions of the Office of the President; develops communications and materials for various capital projects; collaborates with other campus leaders and the development team to accomplish strategic goals; and serves as a liaison to tribal organizations and schools. She also represents the Office of the President at internal and external meetings, coordinates community outreach, assists in building relationships with government officials, alumni, and donors, and is a member of the university’s emergency management team.

Dr. Herman was selected to participate in the 2023-2024 cohort of the American Association of State Colleges & Universities’ Millennium Leadership Initiative program. The year-long initiative is rooted in preparing higher education leaders from traditionally underrepresented communities with the skills, philosophical overview, and networks necessary to advance to the highest ranks of post-secondary education. She was also named the Non-Faculty Exempt Employee of the Year in May 2024, and was awarded a Leadership Impact Award by the National Society of Leadership and Success.

Additionally, Dr. Herman has led efforts for strategic planning and institutional accreditation. She has served on several steering committees related to campus master planning, rebranding efforts, alumni relations, communications, and many others. She has also been serving as the interim director of marketing and communications since November 2023. She previously served as the chair of the university’s Non-Faculty Exempt Employee Council and chair of the Civil Service Advisory Employee Council,

Further, Dr. Herman currently serves as vice chair of the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation Board of Directors, vice chair of the museum and cultural affairs, and sits on the nominating committee. She joined the Friends of the Children – He Sapa Board of Directors in September 2024. She also volunteers as an alumni ambassador and scholarship reviewer for the Native Forward Scholars Fund. Dr. Herman previously served as secretary and marketing chair of the Rapid City Summer Nights Board of Directors, member of the Ranch A Restoration Foundation Board of Directors, and executive committee member of the SD Mines Alumni Association Board of Directors.