LEADERSHIP PROFILE
The South Dakota Board of Regents invites nominations and expressions of interest for the position of president at Northern State University (NSU), one of the six universities governed by the board. We are seeking a forward-thinking, innovative, and collaborative leader who can help build upon Northern's impressive accomplishments. The ideal candidate will be someone who can guide the university as a vibrant and comprehensive regional institution, serving both undergraduate and graduate students.
The president serves as the chief executive officer, responsible for the successful management of all facets of the university. Northern serves over 3,500 students, including high school dual-credit, graduate, and international students, on its scenic 75-acre campus in Aberdeen, a thriving community of 28,000 located in northeastern South Dakota. NSU is a leading residential university recognized for its excellent instruction, strong community involvement, and a range of extracurricular activities. It is a regional comprehensive university that meets the educational and workforce needs in business, academics, the arts, and the sciences. The university offers personalized teaching and student services, expanding access through our online and flexible programs based on a mission-driven approach.
View Complete Leadership Profile (PDF)
Search Committee Members
Search committee members will be announced soon. Please check back for updates.
Timeline
- August 4, 2025
Position Posted
- September 9, 2025
First Presidential Search Committee Meeting
- September 24, 2025
Final Date for Full Position Consideration
- October 6, 2025
Second Presidential Search Committee Meeting
- October 15, 2025
Semi-Finalists Interviews
- November 5—6, 2025
Board of Regents and Search Committee In-Person Interviews and Recommendations
- Early 2026
New President Begins
Procedure for Candidacy
Nominations and applications will be accepted until an appointment is made, within the practical limits of the process, as finalists are identified. Applications will remain confidential except for those invited to the Northern State University campus for interviews. For full consideration, applicants should submit materials by September 24, 2025.
Required Application Materials
All application materials should be submitted electronically to nsupresident@sdbor.edu and must include the following:
- A letter of interest
- A current résumé or curriculum vitae
- The names of five or more professional references with each person's position, office or home address, email address, and telephone numbers
Contact Information
If interested parties have questions, contact:
Kayla Bastian
Chief Human Resource Officer
South Dakota Board of Regents
Phone: 605-773-3455
Email: kayla.bastian@sdbor.edu
About the Board
The South Dakota Board of Regents is comprised of nine members who govern public higher education in South Dakota. The governor appoints board members for six-year terms; one student regent is appointed for a two-year term.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The South Dakota Board of Regents is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Board of Regents ensures that all employment practices are free of discrimination. Arrangements for accommodation required by disabilities can be made by contacting Kayla Bastian at 605-773-3455 or kayla.bastian@sdbor.edu.