News

Friday, Nov. 15, was the end of an era on the Southeast Community College Milford Campus. Ed Koster retired after 10 years as vice president of research, planning and technology and Milford campus director. During his tenure at SCC the Milford Campus had many transformative changes including record enrollment growth and the construction of several new buildings including two residence halls.

“I see the Milford Campus and the College as a whole continuing to build on the momentum created over the last 10 years,” Koster said. “By continuing to invest in new facilities, campus housing and especially increasing the student success services we will build on the incredible enrollment growth we have seen.”

One of his proudest achievements at SCC was saving Nebraska Hall to make it the front door to campus. Built in 1920-21, it served as the hospital for the Soldiers and Sailors Home for World War I veterans. When the Nebraska Trade School was created in 1941, it took over the campus where the former Soldiers and Sailors Home once existed and Nebraska Hall is the only building still standing.  

“I have always been a believer in honoring the past and Nebraska Hall is the perfect representation of who we are in Milford,” Koster explained. “It was built by craftsmen over 100 years ago and we teach all those same professions on campus now. Preserving it seemed like the right thing to do. It stands for everything this country was founded on.”

The first hire of Dr. Paul Illich’s tenure as SCC president, Koster’s legacy includes a 50% enrollment growth in Milford as well as the completion of more than $30 million in construction projects. He also oversaw the development of a comprehensive data infrastructure which included a $2 million server room and robust cybersecurity system. One of his last projects was working with the Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation to establish a 10-year, $7.6 million scholarship program.

“Ed is a passionate and impactful leader,” Illich said. “His dedication to enhancing the collegiate experience for our Milford students will be difficult to replace.”

Koster came to SCC with an extensive background in information technology and welcomed the challenge to broaden his skillset by running campus operations as well. The part of the job he is going to miss the most is the people at SCC.

“Being able to mentor students and staff to reach their maximum potential is the goal of education,” said Koster. “My job has always been to be a custodian of this institution and to build on the accomplishments of so many who came before me. Hopefully I have left it in better shape than I found it.”

Koster plans to move to his home state of Iowa in order to spend more time with his wife and family. Best wishes on your retirement and thank you for all you did for SCC.  

Jennifer Snyder
Communications Specialist
402-323-3393
jsnyder@southeast.edu