LATC Announces Student Services & Public Relations Appointments
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2026
WATERTOWN, S.D. — Lake Area Technical College (LATC) is pleased to announce the addition of two new leaders to its campus community, strengthening the college’s commitment to student success. Hannah Abel has been named Dean of Student Services and will begin her role on July 20. Kris Munger joined LATC as Director of Public Relations and Marketing, beginning July 13.
Hannah Abel brings a strong background in student involvement and alumni engagement to her new role. Most recently serving as the Director of Alumni Relations and Outreach at Southwest Minnesota State University, she has focused her career on student success and fostering meaningful campus connections.
“My career has always been rooted in supporting students, building community, and strengthening the ties between education and opportunity,” said Abel. “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.”
Originally from Montevideo, Minnesota, Abel earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwest Minnesota State University in Psychology and Education: Teaching, Learning and Leadership, respectively. In her role as Dean of Student Services, Abel will lead the team at Lake Area Tech that supports students in non-academic capacities including recruitment, admissions, enrollment services, financial aid, campus life activities, and career services.
Kris Munger joins LATC with more than 20 years of professional experience in the Watertown community across industries including banking, healthcare, insurance, and real estate. Her career has centered on marketing, public relations, business development, and relationship building.
“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,” said Munger. “I look forward to supporting the mission to change lives and launch careers.”
Munger has longstanding 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 a Master of Business Administration from the University of South Dakota. In her new role, Munger will lead the college’s public relations, marketing strategy, and brand development efforts, working to enhance LATC’s visibility and engagement across the region and state.
“Hannah and Kris bring tremendous experience and passion to our work of serving students and our industry partners,” said President Tiffany Sanderson. “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.”