ISU alumnus to oversee human resources at alma mater

Indiana State University has selected one of its alumni as assistant vice president for human resources. Wil Downs, who holds a bachelor’s degree in business from ISU, will assume his new duties June 4.

Downs is currently director of human resources at Labette Community College in Parsons, Kan. He has more than 20 years experience in human resources, largely in the health care field.

“We re very pleased that Wil Downs will be joining us. He was highly supported by all of the people who had the opportunity to meet with him while on campus. He brings a strong background and considerable experience to the position and it is nice to have an ISU alumnus back as part of our administration,” said Gregg Floyd, vice president for business affairs and finance.

“Wil is very active in professional organizations. He will be a fine representative of Indiana State University and a valued member of the business affairs team,” Floyd added.

“I am excited about the opportunity to come ‘back home again in Indiana’ and especially to be able to work at my alma mater, Indiana State University,” Downs said. “I have been fortunate in my career to work as a generalist in the field of human resources, giving me a familiarity with all areas of HR and have an appreciation for the great staff that I will be working with at ISU.

“Since my family is still located in Dana, Ind., it will be wonderful to be able to see them and be involved in their lives after being away for so many years. I owe a lot to Indiana State University and I look forward to being in a position where I am able to give back.”

Downs received his masters in human resource development from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kan. in 1998. In 2000 he completed his certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). He has been very involved in the leadership within the Missouri Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), having served as president of the Tri State HR Association in 2003, and has been serving with the state council in Missouri as registration chair for the SHRM state conference since 2004 and will continue through 2007. He also serves as president for the Southeast Kansas HR Association and is a member of the Kansas State Council.

Since his arrival in Kansas, Downs has also been active within the community by serving on the United Way Board and as chairperson for the Parsons Lion Club Eyeglass Committee.

Contact: Gregg Floyd, vice president for business affairs and finance, Indiana State University, (812) 237-2372 or gfloyd1@isugw.indstate.edu

Writer: Dave Taylor, media relations director, Indiana State University, (812) 237-3743 or dave.taylor@indstate.edu