     South Dakota School of Mines President Dr Jim Rankin says he’s retiring in 6 weeks, ending a 4-decade career in education capped by the last 6 years at School of Mines, his alma mater.
Rankin graduated in 1978 with a degree in electrical engineering.
Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr Lance Roberts will serve as interim president with the search for Rankin’s successor to begin later this summer.
Dr Rankin says it’s been a privilege to serve as president and that he’s “immensely proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that the university will continue to thrive and be a leader in the state and the nation for years to come.”
South Dakota Board of Regents Executive Director Nathan Lukkes says Rankin leaves behind a legacy of significant achievements as he was able to impact student success and strengthen relationships with industry partners locally and nationally.
Rankin enhanced student retention and graduation rates, expanded research opportunities, and oversaw the construction of the Nucor Mineral Industries Building.
He also led the renovation of the Devereaux Library and the acquisition of the former Ascent Innovation building, expanding research space and fostering collaboration among interdisciplinary teams.
Rankin’s fundraising efforts resulted in the largest individual donation and the largest corporate gift to the university, doubling the funds raised by the Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement.