Presidential Search
Dickinson State University is conducting a comprehensive, collaborative search for its next president. This significant leadership opportunity promises to shape the future of DSU as it continues to excel in student success, community engagement, and academic innovation. Led by AGB Search, the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) (with support from the North Dakota University System (NDUS)), and key consultants, the search will ensure that the selected candidate aligns with DSU’s mission and strategic vision.
This webpage provides the timeline and key milestones in the search process, ensuring transparent communication and engagement with all stakeholders.
View Job Description (Coming Soon)
View Application Portal (Coming Soon)
Committee Members
Co-Chairs
- SBHE Vice Chair Danita Bye
- DSU Acting President Ty Orton
Senior System Representative (ex officio)
- Mark Gorenflo
Two Faculty Members
- Liz Freedman - Assistant Professor and Faculty Senate member
- Thadd O'Donnell - Assistant Professor and Head Golf Coach
Two Staff Representatives
- Chris Meek - Director of Financial Aid
- McKenzie Springer - Admissions Visit Coordinator/Administrative Assistant
Undergraduate Student
- Carl Askins
Graduate Student
- Dallis Mitchell
Academic/Student Affairs Vice President
- Holly Gruhlke - Vice President
Alumni Representative/Foundation Member
- Steve Perdue - Treasurer of the DSU Heritage Foundation and DSU alumnus
External Constituency Member
- Vaune Johnson - DSU alumna and longtime Dickinson banker
Chancellor
- Mark Hagerott (ex officio, non-voting)
Chancellor Cabinet Representative
- Bernell Hirning, President, Williston State College
Presidential Search Timeline
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November 14-22 |
Virtual listening sessions with Dickinson State University
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December 3 |
First Meeting of Search Committee (Virtual)
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December 16 |
Presidential Search launched
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February 7 |
Deadline for applications (best consideration)
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February 21 |
Second Meeting of Search Committee (Virtual) Search Committee identifies semifinalist candidates
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Week of March 3 (days as needed)
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Third Meeting of Search Committee (Virtual) Search Committee interviews semifinalist candidates Finalist candidates identified
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March 17-21 (days as needed) |
Finalist candidates meet university constituencies Search Committee interviews candidates
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Week of March 17 |
Final Meeting of the Search Committee (In person) Search Committee makes final recommendations |
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March 27 |
State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) Meeting SBHE interviews candidates and appoints President |
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April 1-June 30 |
Transition in leadership
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On or about July 1, 2025 |
DSU President-elect assumes office
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Presidential Search News