News

Three individuals were honored with the Midwestern Higher Education Compact’s Outstanding Service Award at the organization’s annual meeting in Cleveland, OH, November 5-7:

• Jennifer Armour, associate director of academic affairs for the Kansas Board of Regents
• Craig Jackson, executive director of technology infrastructure and research computing at Illinois State University
• Angela Neria, associate vice president of technology and chief information officer for Pittsburg State University in Kansas

The Outstanding Service Award recognizes exemplary service and strong commitment to MHEC’s mission, principles, innovation, programs, and activities.

About Jennifer Armour

Jennifer Armour, associate director of academic affairs for the Kansas Board of Regents, was nominated for her leadership role in the work of the Midwest State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (M-SARA), which provides a cost-effective and effective approach to oversight of postsecondary distance education. She has chaired the regional steering committee for M-SARA and served as a mentor and trusted resource to colleagues throughout the region.

“Jennifer is a steady, thoughtful voice in promoting access, quality, and accountability in online learning across the Midwest,” said Susan Heegaard, MHEC president. “We appreciate how she has fostered open dialogue and built consensus to advance policies that enhance transparency and consistency for institutions and students alike. Her long record of service exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines MHEC’s mission.”

Armour has worked with the Kansas Board of Regents for more than 11 years, serving first as a private postsecondary education regulator and private postsecondary business analyst before moving into her current role as associate director for academic affairs in October 2017. Prior to that, she worked with Southwestern College, Friends University, and Washburn University. Armour holds a bachelor of arts degree from Kansas Wesleyan University and a master of business administration from Southwestern College.

Pictured above with Susan Heegaard, MHEC President, and MHEC Commissioner Blake Flanders

About Craig Jackson

Craig Jackson, executive director of technology infrastructure and research computing at Illinois State University, was nominated for his service to MHEC’s Technologies Community, which provides strategic guidance on technology-related topics that helps MHEC support higher education institutions and its member states. He has participated in the Community since 2013 and joined its executive committee in 2024.

“As a mentor and facilitator, Craig empowers others to think creatively and act strategically,” said Susan Heegaard, MHEC president. “His ability to connect infrastructure, innovation, and institutional strategy has made him a valuable contributor to MHEC overall and MHEC’s Technologies Community in particular. He facilitates peer learning, leads sessions, and fosters partnerships that help MHEC deliver cost-effective, scalable solutions that benefit members institutions.”

Jackson has served in a leadership role at Illinois State University for ten years. Prior to that, he held key technology positions at the University of Illinois at Chicago and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He earned his bachelor’s degree in science from the University of Pittsburgh and a master’s degree in science from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.

Pictured above with Susan Heegaard, MHEC President, and Nathan Sorenson, MHEC Senior Director of Government Contracts

About Angela Neria

Angela Neria, associate vice president of technology and chief information officer for Pittsburg State University in Kansas, was nominated for her service to MHEC’s Technologies Community, which provides strategic guidance on technology-related topics that helps MHEC support higher education institutions and its member states. She has served in the Technologies Community executive committee since October 2016 and on advisory and work groups since 2013.

“Angela is a forward-thinking contributor to MHEC who brings significant expertise to modernization, procurement, and shared services discussions,” said Susan Heegaard, MHEC president. “She is collaborative and strategic in fostering partnerships, promoting scalable solutions, and serving as a mentor for emerging IT leaders. Her leadership truly embodies the spirit of this award and reflects her deep dedication to improving outcomes for both students and institutions.”

Neria has served in her leadership role at Pittsburg State University for more than 15 years. Prior to that, she was the chief information officer for Joplin (MO) Schools. Neria earned her BBA and MBA degrees from Pittsburg State University.

Pictured above with Susan Heegaard, MHEC President, and Nathan Sorenson, MHEC Senior Director of Government Contracts