Meet the new Vice President for Student Development, Dr. Vance R. Valerio.
From the media release:
Midland Lutheran College named Vance R. Valerio of Omaha to fill its Vice President of Student Development position on Monday. The announcement comes after a nationwide search.
“We have the same vision for the future of Student Development,” said Dr. Stephen Fritz, MLC president, about the hire. “Dr. Valerio’s experience will be a great asset to Midland.”
His strong faith and vast experience in faith-based education was also a key to the selection. Valerio has worked in a number of such schools, such as Texas Lutheran College in Seguin, Texas; St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, and Marquette University in Milwaukee. In addition, “He is very active in the Synod,” Fritz said. “He knows our universe.”
“I’m thrilled by the opportunity to join the Midland family,” said Dr. Valerio. “Coming to the College at a time of renewed vigor has me very excited. I look forward to the challenges we will face as a team. I believe strongly in the mission of the College and look forward to helping our students develop into future leaders.”
Valerio obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D.; and his Master’s Degree in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. His Doctorate in College Student Personnel Administration was earned at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO.
Valerio has also held various administration positions at Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, N.M.; Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas; and New York University in New York City. In addition, Valerio has an extensive background in organizational consulting
He comes to MLC after serving as a consultant to the ELCA Nebraska Synod Office and St Paul’s Lutheran Church of Millard, both located in Omaha. Prior to that, Valerio was the assistant vice chancellor for student development services at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. While at UNO, he was responsible for a variety of departments and services including academic support services, student housing, multicultural affairs and the career center.
He will begin his duties immediately, according to Fritz. “We believe he will have an immediate positive impact on the quality of MLC’s campus life.”
