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

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.

  • DSU Staff #1
    • Date: Tuesday, November 19th - Time: 10am MDT
  • DSU Staff #2
    • Date: Wednesday, November 20th - Time: 3pm MDT

Presidential Search Timeline

November 14-22

Virtual listening sessions with Dickinson State University

 

December 3

First Meeting of Search Committee (Virtual)

 

December 16

Presidential Search launched

 

February 7

Deadline for applications (best consideration)

 

February 21

Second Meeting of Search Committee (Virtual)

Search Committee identifies semifinalist candidates

 

Week of March 3 (days as needed)

 

Third Meeting of Search Committee (Virtual)

Search Committee interviews semifinalist candidates

Finalist candidates identified

 

March 17-21

(days as needed)

Finalist candidates meet university constituencies

Search Committee interviews candidates

 

Week of March 17

Final Meeting of the Search Committee (In person)

Search Committee makes final recommendations

March 27

State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) Meeting

SBHE interviews candidates and appoints President

April 1-June 30

Transition in leadership

 

On or about

July 1, 2025

DSU President-elect assumes office

 

 

Presidential Search News