Lake Area Technical College Adds Hannah Abel and Kris Munger to Leadership Team

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Lake Area Technical College has announced two key additions to its leadership team, further strengthening the college’s focus on student success, community engagement, and regional workforce development.

Hannah Abel has been appointed Dean of Student Services and will begin her role on July 20. Kris Munger joined the college on July 13 as Director of Public Relations and Marketing.

Abel to Lead Student Services Team

Abel comes to Lake Area Tech with a strong background in student involvement, campus engagement, and alumni relations. She previously served as Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach at Southwest Minnesota State University, where her work centered on building connections that support student achievement.

“My career has always been rooted in supporting students, building community, and strengthening the ties between education and opportunity,” Abel said. “Education changes lives, and I’m excited to support Lake Area Tech students as they gain the skills, confidence, and experiences that open doors to their future.”

A native of Montevideo, Minnesota, Abel holds both a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Education: Teaching, Learning and Leadership from SMSU. As Dean of Student Services, she will oversee recruitment, admissions, enrollment services, financial aid, campus life activities, and career services.

Munger to Lead LATC’s Marketing and Public Relations Strategy

Munger brings more than two decades of professional experience in Watertown across banking, healthcare, insurance, and real estate. Her career has focused on marketing, public relations, business development, and relationship building — skills she will now apply to elevating Lake Area Tech’s statewide visibility.

“I’m honored to join a college known for excellence and look forward to helping elevate the Lake Area Tech brand while continuing its positive impact,” Munger said. “I look forward to supporting the mission to change lives and launch careers.”

Munger has long-standing ties to LATC, having served as an LATC Foundation Board Member, Financial Services Program Advisory Board Member, scholarship reviewer, and adjunct instructor. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from South Dakota State University and an MBA from the University of South Dakota.

In her new role, she will lead LATC’s public relations, marketing strategy, and brand development efforts.

Leadership Praised by College President

LATC President Tiffany Sanderson said both leaders bring valuable experience and energy to the college’s mission.

“Hannah and Kris bring tremendous experience and passion to our work of serving students and our industry partners,” Sanderson said. “Hannah’s student-centered leadership and Kris’ expertise in storytelling and brand growth will help Lake Area Tech advance our mission as the nation’s premier technical college.”

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