Central ND News

Bismarck State College (BSC) has appointed Dr. Ray Talley as the assistant dean in the Current and Emerging Technologies division. Talley began his role last semester, bringing extensive experience in education, leadership, and student support services.

In his new position, Talley is responsible for overseeing a variety of technical academic programs such as Agribusiness, Agriculture Industry and Technology, Ranch Operations, Farm & Ranch Management, Carpentry, Heavy Equipment Operations, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, Graphic Design and Communications, Auto Collision Technology, and Welding. His role is crucial in supporting BSC’s dedication to workforce development and innovative education.

Talley's career includes roles in student development and administrative leadership. In Colorado, he worked as an intensive in-home behavior coach and served as a school social worker before becoming a dean of students at both middle and elementary schools. Most recently, he was the principal at Theodore Jamerson Elementary School in Bismarck.

“Dr. Tally is a great addition to our academic leadership team,” stated Mari Volk, Dean of Current and Emerging Technologies at BSC. “His extensive background in education, social work, and administration—along with his passion for student success—make him a great asset to our programs."

Talley holds several degrees: a bachelor’s degree in sociology from South Dakota State University; a master’s degree in social work from the University of North Dakota; another master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Northern Colorado; and a Doctor of Education from the University of Northern Colorado.

The assistant dean positions are part of an academic restructure at BSC aimed at maintaining excellence in program delivery and workforce readiness. These roles involve designing course schedules with faculty collaboration to ensure high-quality programming while supporting faculty through mentorship. They also focus on recruiting quality faculty members to support student success towards careers or further studies.