National Intelligence Award Reflects DSU's Leadership in National Security Education
July 2, 2026
As Dakota State University continues to strengthen its national reputation in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and national security education, coincidentally, its new president brings with him one of the Intelligence Community's highest honors.
Dr. John R. Ballard, who began serving as Dakota State University's president in late June, was recently awarded the National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of his exceptional leadership and sustained contributions to the United States Intelligence Community during his tenure as president of the National Intelligence University (NIU).
The National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal is presented to individuals whose sustained, selfless service has made extraordinary and lasting contributions to the Intelligence Community and the nation’s security. It is among the Intelligence Community's most distinguished honors.
While the recognition honors Dr. Ballard's leadership at NIU, it also reflects the caliber of leadership guiding Dakota State University as it expands its role as one of the nation's premier institutions for cyber, artificial intelligence and national security education.
During his three years leading NIU, Dr. Ballard oversaw significant institutional transformation, including strengthening accreditation, modernizing academic programs, expanding technology-enabled education, and increasing student success. Under his leadership, the university also deepened partnerships across the Intelligence Community while supporting national priorities in counterintelligence, homeland security and strategic competition.
Those experiences closely align with Dakota State University's mission to prepare graduates for careers that strengthen state and national digital infrastructure and security.
"This honor is deeply meaningful because it recognizes the extraordinary work accomplished by NIU’s dedicated faculty and staff, and so many other intelligence professionals committed to serving our nation," Ballard said. "That same spirit of innovation, collaboration, and public service is what drew me to Dakota State University. DSU has earned a national reputation for preparing the next generation of leaders, and I look forward to building new partnerships that expand the university's impact in support of our state's workforce and our nation's security."
Dr. Ballard's arrival comes at a time when Dakota State continues to build national momentum, particularly in cybersecurity, applied research and public-private partnerships. The university has become a destination for students seeking careers in cyber operations, artificial intelligence, digital forensics and other critical technology fields that support both industry and government.