LA CROSSE, Wis., May 2, 2023 – Western Technical College announced Tuesday the selection of Dr. Rebecca Hopkins as the college’s Vice President of Learning (formally Academics).

Hopkins most recently served as Western’s Dean of Academic Excellence, Education, and Human Services, a role she held since 2022. She also previously served as the associate dean for the Learner Support and Transition division, as well as serving 12 years as the Dean of Education at Saint Mary’s University in Minnesota. She began her new role with Western on May 1.

“Rebecca’s passion for education, student success, and Western’s mission really came through in the selection process,” said Western President Roger Stanford. “After a national search, which included input from administrators, faculty, and staff members, Rebecca rose to the top based on her extensive experience in both teaching and learning.”

Since joining Western in 2019, Hopkins has been a strong advocate for educational justice and social equity, helping establish the educational justice framework within the Learner Support and Transition division. She also led the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Leadership grant, which helped provide instruction of English Language, American Culture, and Community Navigation for Afghan refugees at Ft. McCoy in 2022.   

“I am thrilled to continue serving the students, faculty, staff, and communities of Western Technical College in this new role,” said Hopkins. “I am committed to our open access mission, meaningful partnerships, and community growth.”

Hopkins received her doctorate in educational leadership from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, where she also holds a master’s degree in Instruction with an emphasis on K-8 Education and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.