Black Hills State University President Steve Elliott announced the hiring of Dr. Ashley
Armstrong as the Vice President for Continuing Education and Workforce Development
at BHSU-Rapid City (BHSU-RC) on Thursday.
In this role, Armstrong will provide visionary leadership and strategic direction for all operations at Black Hills State University-Rapid City including academic program observations, administrative functions, student services, continuing education, workforce development, professional training, and community engagement. Armstrong will foster partnerships with businesses, industries, government agencies, and community organizations to promote lifelong learning and regional economic development.
Prior to BHSU-RC, Armstrong served as the Science Education Specialist for Education and Outreach at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) where she led multi-year STEM initiatives, statewide professional development, cross-sector partnerships aligned with regional economic, and workforce priorities. She also managed collaborative grant-funded programs and contributed to securing external funding through academic and workforce consortia.
“Ashley brings a unique blend of experience in educational leadership, strategic enrollment efforts, cross-institutional partnerships, and operational oversight. I have confidence she will be instrumental to the success of BHSU-Rapid City and to the University as a whole,” President Elliott said.
Armstrong currently represents South Dakota, North Dakota, and Minnesota on the National Science Teaching Association Leadership Council, where she collaborates with national leaders on advancing educational goals in diverse communities and served as President of the South Dakota Science Teaching Association from 2022-24 to increase organizational revenue, grow statewide partnerships, and lead strategic marketing and membership efforts.
“I am honored to serve as Vice President for Continuing Education and Workforce Development at BHSU–Rapid City,” Armstrong said. “This campus plays a vital role in creating opportunities for students and strengthening our community. I am eager to listen, learn, and work alongside the faculty, staff, and partners who make this work possible as we expand opportunities and build on the incredible momentum already underway.”
Armstrong earned her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Wyoming. She also holds a Master of Science in Leadership and Administration from Northern State University, a Master of Science in Kinesiology and Health with a focus on Community Health Development from the University of Wyoming, and a Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from South Dakota State University.
Armstrong will begin her duties at BHSU-Rapid City August 27.