Dickinson State University (DSU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kayla Noah as Vice President of Student Affairs. Noah has served as the Dean of Students since 2021 and brings over a decade of progressive experience in higher education leadership, student advocacy, and academic support.
In her new role, Noah will lead DSU’s newly integrated Division of Student Affairs, overseeing Campus Life, Campus Safety and Security, Financial Aid, Health and Counseling Services, DSU Williston and Bismarck, and the Student Opportunity and Resource (SOAR) Center. This holistic, student-centered model aims to unify essential support services to better meet the evolving needs of DSU’s diverse student population.
"Kayla Noah is the right leader to shape this new division," said DSU President Scott Molander. "Her commitment to student success, inclusive leadership, and deep institutional knowledge make her a natural fit for this position. Her vision is firmly rooted in creating a campus experience where every student feels supported, safe, and empowered to thrive."
Noah has earned a reputation for initiating impactful improvements across campus. She played a pivotal role in expanding mental health services, enhancing campus programming, and launching DSU’s Student Success Advising model—a high-touch, coaching-based support system designed to guide students through their academic journeys.
“I am deeply committed to removing barriers and creating systems of support that truly work for DSU students,” Noah said. “I look forward to building a student affairs team that leads with empathy, data-informed practices, and a deep belief in every student’s potential.”
Noah is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership at the University of North Dakota. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from UND and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Education from the University of South Dakota, graduating magna cum laude. Her background includes roles as DSU’s Director of the SOAR Center, Disability Services Specialist, and Professional Academic Advisor. She has led multiple university initiatives and committees focused on student retention, inclusion, accessibility, and behavioral intervention.
"Kayla has a rare ability to balance strategic leadership with day-to-day student care," said Dr. Holly Gruhlke, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “She’s a collaborator, a builder, and most importantly, an unwavering student advocate. This appointment will elevate the student experience at DSU to new heights.”
Noah’s appointment comes at a time when institutions nationwide are placing renewed emphasis on student belonging, retention, and well-being. A vibrant and forward-thinking Student Affairs division is essential to those efforts, serving as the heart of the campus experience outside the classroom.
“Student Affairs is about more than services—it's about cultivating a community,” Noah added. “My goal is to foster a culture of care and connection where students can not only succeed academically but also discover who they are and how they want to engage with the world.”