ATCHISON — Dr. Kimberly Shankman, provost and dean of Benedictine College here, has been named an “Icon of Education” by Ingram’s Magazine, a business publication in Kansas City, Missouri. Shankman was among eight honored in the magazine’s annual higher education issue in March. According to the magazine, the honor recognizes teachers and administrators whose work “ensures that students not only graduate but thrive in a dynamic economy — equipping them with the tools to succeed in an increasingly competitive, tech-driven world.”
“I feel very honored, but also a little embarrassed, since I know full well that any success I’ve had is because I work with incredible people,” Shankman said. “I’m even more honored that I get to work each day at a college that does such great good in the world because of my colleagues who are committed to advancing our mission, educating our outstanding students in a community of faith and scholarship to help transform the culture.”
Shankman came to Benedictine College as dean in 2002 after serving more than 16 years as a member of the faculty at Ripon College, where she held such positions as professor and chair of the Department of Politics and Government and director of the Law and Society Program. She received her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate in political science from Northern Illinois University and specializes in political philosophy, constitutional law and American government at Benedictine College. Her many scholarly endeavors include presentations on “Truth and Democracy” at the University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, Italy, and “Human Capital in Caritas et Veritate” at Columbia University in New York.
Benedictine College has flourished during her time as dean and academic excellence has been a key component of that success.
“When they write a history of Benedictine College, a whole chapter will have to be dedicated to Kim Shankman,” said Benedictine College President Stephen D. Minnis. “Her vision has transformed this college and helped to create a nationally recognized institution known for its visionary strengths in community, faith and scholarship.”
During her tenure, the college opened a campus in Florence, Italy, which is now celebrating its 20th year as a semester-long study abroad option for Benedictine students. During the same time, the college overhauled the entire general education program and added new undergraduate majors like architecture and graphic design, as well as new master’s programs in classical education. On top of that, she oversaw the creation of the School of Business, the School of Nursing, and the School of Engineering.
In addition, classrooms have been renovated with new furnishings and upgraded technology, including remote learning classrooms. Several new academic facilities have been opened, including Cray Seaberg Hall, the Mother Teresa Center for Nursing and Health Education, Ferrell Academic Center, the expansion of Westerman Hall, and the new College Library. Under her leadership, the number of faculty has grown almost 75%, the yearly amount spent on instruction alone has increased over 60%, and the Higher Learning Commission granted Benedictine College the highest accreditation possible with a full 10-year accreditation.
Shankman has had a distinguished career as a teacher and scholar, as well as an administrator who has presided over some of the most important academic initiatives in the history of Benedictine College.
