Eppich

Dave Eppich

Professional Summary

  • Experienced leader in organizational development, strategic planning, and executive management across higher education, nonprofit, tribal, and for-profit sectors.
  • Expertise in quality process improvement, organizational change, and regional economic development.
  • Published author and contributor to national initiatives in higher education and community planning.

Career Highlights

  • Economic Development Manager, Southern Ute Indian Tribe
    • Led the development and implementation of a successful five-year comprehensive economic development strategy.
  • Vice President for Student Services, San Juan College
    • Directed a division of 13 departments over a 13-year tenure.
    • Oversaw enrollment, student support, and institutional advancement.
  • Special Assistant to the President for External Affairs, Fort Lewis College
    • Served for 25 years with roles including state and federal legislative advocacy, marketing, tribal and public relations, and economic development.
    • Directed the San Juan Forum, a regional economic development coalition across four states and multiple jurisdictions.
    • Also served as volunteer Men’s Soccer Coach.
  • Higher Learning Commission Peer Reviewer
    • Team leader in the Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP) for institutional accreditation.

Board & Community Service

  • Durango Community Development Commission (current)
  • Vice Chair, NM Student Loan Guarantee Corporation
  • Chairman, Colorado Region Nine Economic Development District
  • Board Member, Bank of Durango, Colorado State Rural Development Council, Durango Area Chamber & Resort Association
  • Appointee, Governor’s Task Forces on Smart Growth and Telecommunications
  • Chair, Leadership La Plata Steering Committee
  • Member, 9-R School District Blue Ribbon Committee
  • President, Florida River Estates HOA & Water Co.

Publications

  • Co-author: Assessing Student Learning in the Community & Two-Year College (Stylus Publishing, 2013)
  • Author:
    • “Native American Tuition Waiver” – Colorado Legislative White Paper
    • “A Model for Regional Cooperation: The San Juan Forum” – Presented at Wright State University