Dean Fisher named Idaho commissioner for Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education

 

Dean Fisher named Idaho commissioner for Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education
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Demarée Michelau President | WICHE Website

Dean Fisher, president of the College of Southern Idaho, has been appointed as a commissioner to represent Idaho on the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). WICHE is an interstate compact based in Boulder, Colorado, that serves the higher education and workforce needs of 15 Western states as well as U.S. Pacific Territories and Freely Associated States.

Fisher leads Idaho’s first and only federally designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. His appointment to WICHE comes after nearly four decades working in postsecondary education. Fisher previously served as a senior vice president at Rose State College in Oklahoma City within the Oklahoma System of Higher Education, worked as a provost in the State University of New York system, and has experience as a congressional aide and chief of staff. His research interests include student development theory, strategic enrollment management, public policy, and Tribal history with a focus on the Choctaw Nation.

WICHE’s commission consists of 48 members who are appointed by state governors or leaders of freely associated states. The commission is responsible for guiding WICHE’s direction and ensuring that the goals of the Western Regional Educational Compact—established in 1953—are fulfilled for the benefit of Western states.

Demarée Michelau, president of WICHE, commented on Fisher’s appointment: “President Fisher is a seasoned leader with a remarkable ability to connect with individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives. His deep expertise in strategic enrollment management and unwavering commitment to student success bring invaluable insight to WICHE’s efforts to strengthen the region by closing the gap between educational outcomes and workforce demands.”

Upon his appointment by Governor Brad Little, Fisher said: “We need education in order for individuals to advance and grow to their full potential, and that all starts with access. I am honored by Gov. Brad Little’s appointment to serve my state, and I look forward to working with the Commission to ensure all students in the West, no matter their background, have that chance.”

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