January Luncheon

Dr. Daniel “Dan” Edelman retired as Chancellor at Montana State University, Billings. His responsibilities included transforming and leading both a traditional university and a two-year community college. As a first-generation college student, he strove to provide opportunities to veterans, Native Americans, and other underserved populations. He has helped countless students pursue their dreams. Serving in higher education for over 25 years, other senior roles include Chief Financial Officer at the University of North Texas at Dallas and Associate Chief Academic Officer at East Texas A&M University. He is also a twice-tenured professor of accounting. Furthering his commitment towards public service, he joined the US Department of Justice as a Forensic Financial Investigator, immediately following 9/11. Additionally, he was an entrepreneur with two businesses: one in public accounting and the other in finance.

He began his journey by enlisting in the US Army immediately after his seventeenth birthday. Trained in military intelligence, he served as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, S2, 1st Military Intelligence Battalion, 1st Infantry Division. During his second deployment to Europe during the Cold War, he was seriously injured, he left the service following three years on active duty.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from Loyola University, a Master of Science in Accounting degree, and a Doctorate o Philosophy from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He earned five professional certifications (Certified Public Accountant, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified in Financial Forensics, Chartered Global Accountant, and Certified Information Professional).

Dr. Edelman received a Tribute in the United States Senate for his contributions to higher education and the nation. His dedication, support, and commitment towards veterans and underserved populations was highlighted.

He is happily married to his wife Sandee and resides in McKinney, TX. Combined they have three sons and six grandchildren.