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

 

Board of Regents

  • Regent Jeff Partridge, Chair
  • Regent Tim Rave
  • Regent Randy Frederick

Community, Foundation & Alumni

  • Harvey Jewett
  • Kila Legrand
  • Jim Thares
  • Tom Seyer
  • Kyle Schwan
  • Dan Bjerkness
  • Becky Guffin

Students

  • Abiah George
  • Jorja Whempner

Civil Service Employee

  • Laine Converse

Non-Faculty Exempt Employee

  • Brenda Mammenga

Faculty

  • Dr. Hannah Walters
  • Dr. Shalini Mathew

Administration – Executive Leadership Team

  • Eric Kline

System President

  • Steve Elliott, BHSU

 

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.