Arkansas State University has hired Arkansas Department of Higher Education Director Shane Broadway as its vice president of government relations.
Broadway, a former Speaker of the Arkansas House of Representatives who went on to serve in the state Senate, had been at the Department of Higher Education since February 2011. He succeeds retiring Robert Evans in the new post with the ASU System.
“Shane brings to us an ideal blend of experience as a former legislator who is very knowledgeable about higher education and the processes of state government,” ASU System President Chuck Welch said in a statement. “He is also an alumnus and former student body president at Arkansas State, so he has a great love for his alma mater and shares our vision for growth and service to students. I have been particularly impressed by his ability to work in a nonpartisan manner at the State Capitol."
Broadway, a Democrat and a 1994 graduate of ASU, had been asked to stay in his position by Republican Gov.-elect Asa Hutchinson. He interviewed three days later for the ASU opening.
“As an alumnus, it’s an honor to return to the place that gave me my opportunity for a higher education,” Broadway said in a news release. “This opportunity will allow me to give back and make a difference in the lives of others like me who will pass through the doors of the ASU System campuses.”
ASU said it's unclear when Broadway will start, though he will likely stay in his current position at least through the end of the January.
Read Thursday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.