Dr. Bill and Barbara Jordan named BHSU Swarm Day Parade Marshals

Black Hills State University announces that Dr. Bill Jordan, leader and educator who was a strong proponent of women’s athletics, and his wife Barbara, former nursing services director at Dorsett Healthcare, will serve as Parade Marshals during the Swarm Day Parade Saturday, Sept. 29 in Spearfish.

“We have fond memories of attending many Swarm Week events throughout the years,” said Bill. “It’s quite an honor to be named Parade Marshals and we’re pleased to be part of the Swarm Day festivities at BHSU.”

The Jordan’s arrived in Spearfish in 1967. That same year, Bill started the cross-country program at BHSU. During his 29-year career at BHSU, Bill was an administrator, teacher, and coach serving in the following roles: vice president of academic affairs, dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology, chair of the physical education division, athletic director, cross-country coach, and golf instructor.

In the 1970s, Bill was instrumental in the dream and vision to renovate Lyle Hare Stadium and the building of the Donald E. Young Sports & Fitness Center at BHSU. 

Bill has given freely of his time to promote athletics throughout the years. He was president of the S.D. Intercollegiate Conference (1981-83) and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (1987-88). He also was a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee (track and field) (1969-72) and was games director of the S.D. Special Olympics and a member of the national advisory committee for Special Olympics (1970-72). He is a member of the Northern State, Black Hills State, Onida/Sully Buttes, SDIC, and South Dakota Sports Halls of Fame. Bill coached and taught at Britton High School after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Barbara is a noted caregiver and leader in healthcare. In addition to her work as nursing services director at Dorsett Healthcare, she was a member of the Spearfish Nurses Club and Beta Sigma Phi, a professional women’s organization that focuses on learning and philanthropy in the community.

The theme for the BHSU Swarm Day Parade is “Sting Goes Worldwide.” The parade beings at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29 in the Donald E. Young Center Parking Lot and will proceed down St. Joe Street, Jackson Blvd. and then Main Street.

To register a float in the parade or for more information on Swarm Week festivities, visit www.BHSU.edu/SwarmWeek