Dr. Randy Nelson earned his Bachelor of Arts in English and German at the University of Sioux Falls. He later earned a Master of Arts in Selected Studies in English at Augustana University and then a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis. He has also completed graduate coursework in Germany and Austria.
During his 28 years of teaching high school English and German, Dr. Nelson taught in South Dakota and Minnesota. As well, he spent a year teaching in the public school system in Berlin, Germany.
During his 17 years at the University of Sioux Falls, Dr. Nelson taught undergraduate and graduate courses pertaining to educational psychology and pedagogy. He also taught foundational courses in writing and oral communication, as well as a doctoral course titled International and Intercultural Perspectives.
Over the years Dr. Nelson developed a strong interest in international education. Besides teaching, he served as USF's Director of International Education. In that role he assisted F-1 nonimmigrant students, served as the Principal Designated School Official for SEVIS and directed the Bridges English Language program. He also oversaw USF's study abroad program.
Since 2018 Dr. Nelson has taken multiple trips to Liberia, West Africa, to teach pedagogy workshops to practicing educators. Now retired after 45 years of teaching, he has expanded his time in Liberia to five months per year to serve the education sector. While there, he is likewise grateful to represent his home church, International Outreach Ministries, as Missionary for Education.