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 Leadership Profile

View President Position Posting

Committee Members

Co-Chairs 

• SBHE Vice Chair Danita Bye 
• DSU Acting President Ty Orton 

Senior System Representative (ex officio)

• Mr. Mark Gorenflo 

Two Faculty Members

• Dr. Liz Freedman - Assistant Professor and Faculty Senate member 
• Mr. Thadd O'Donnell - Assistant Professor and Head Golf Coach 

Two Staff Representatives

• Mr. Chris Meek - Director of Financial Aid 
• Ms. McKenzie Springer - Admissions Visit Coordinator/Administrative Assistant 

Undergraduate Student

• Mr. Carl Askins  

Graduate Student

• Ms. Dallis Mitchell  

Academic/Student Affairs Vice President

• Dr. Holly Gruhlke - Vice President

Alumni Representative/Foundation Member

• Mr. Steve Perdue - Treasurer of the DSU Heritage Foundation and DSU alumnus 

External Constituency Member

• Ms. Vaune Johnson - DSU alumna and longtime Dickinson banker 

Chancellor

• Dr. Mark Hagerott (ex officio, non-voting) 

Chancellor Cabinet Representative

• Dr. Bernell Hirning, President, Williston State College

Listening Sessions

Click the title to connect to the meeting session. For additional meeting and call-in details, see the press release here.

• Community & Business Leaders
  • Date: Thursday, November 14^{th -} Time: 9am MDT
• DSU Heritage Foundation Board of Directors & DSU Alumni
  • Date: Thursday, November 14^{th -} Time: 4pm MDT

• Open Session #1
  • Date: Monday, November 18^{th -} Time: 2pm MDT

• Open Session #2
  • Date: Tuesday, November 19^{th -} Time: 4pm MDT

• DSU Students #1 
  • Date: Monday, November 18^{th -} Time: 6pm MDT

• DSU Students #2
  • Date: Tuesday, November 19^{th -} Time: 6pm MDT

• DSU Staff #1
  • Date: Tuesday, November 19^{th -} Time: 10am MDT

• DSU Staff #2
  • Date: Wednesday, November 20^{th -} Time: 3pm MDT

• DSU Faculty #1
  • Date: Wednesday, November 20^{th -} Time: 10am MDT

• DSU Faculty #2
  • Date: Thursday , November 21^{st -} Time: 3pm MDT
• DSU President’s Cabinet
  • Date: Thursday, November 21^{st -} Time: 9am MDT

Presidential Search Timeline

 

Presidential Search News