Presidential Search
The South Dakota Board of Regents (SDBOR) invites applications and nominations for the position of President of Dakota State University (DSU), one of the six public universities governed by the Board. Reporting to the Board, the President serves as the university’s chief executive officer and is responsible for the successful leadership and management of all facets of the institution.
Leadership Profile
DSU is at a pivotal moment of growth, rooted in technological innovation, driven by research and industry partnerships, and poised to shape the future of education, workforce development, and digital transformation across South Dakota and the nation. The next president will lead a technology-infused university dedicated to preparing students for highdemand careers, advancing impactful research, and ensuring student success.
View the complete leadership profile
Search committee
To be announced
DSU at a glance
Founded in 1881, Dakota State University began as Dakota State Normal School, a teachers’ college serving the Dakota Territory. Over more than 140 years later, DSU has transformed into one of the nation’s most technologically advanced public university, distinguished by its leadership in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation.
DSU is among an elite group of 11 universities designated by the National Security Agency as Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations, Cyber Defense, and Cyber Research.
Mission & Vision
Mission: DSU’s mission is to prepare cyber-savvy graduates who are lifelong learners, problem solvers, innovators, and leaders to live lives of positive purpose and consequence.
Vision: Innovative, entrepreneurial, and resilient since 1881, DSU will continue to rise through short - and long-term success of our students and graduates, increased strength in applied research and athletics, and deep engagement with our stakeholders, in an environment infused with quality improvement.
Timeline
December 1, 2025 – Position Posted/Recruitment Begins
January 7, 2026 – First Presidential Search Committee Meeting
February 11, 2026 – Second Presidential Search Committee Meeting
March 6, 2026 – Semi-Finalist Interviews
March 25 – 26, 2026 – Finalist Interviews on DSU Campus
June/July 2026 – New President Begins
Procedure for Candidacy
Nominations and applications will be accepted until an appointment is made, within the practical limits of the process. For full consideration, candidates should submit materials by February 1, 2026. All application materials should be combined into a single PDF document and submitted electronically to dsupresident@sdbor.edu and must include:
- A letter of interest;
- A current résumé or curriculum vitae; and,
- Five or more professional references, please include each person’s position, office or home address, e-mail address, and telephone numbers.
If interested parties have questions, please contact Kayla Bastian, Chief HR Officer of the South Dakota Board of Regents, at 605-773-3455 or kayla.bastian@sdbor.edu.
Applications will remain confidential except for those invited for campus interviews. The South Dakota Board of Regents is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Board of Regents ensures that all employment practices are free of discrimination. Arrangements for accommodations for disabilities can be made by contacting Kayla Bastian at 605-773-3455 or kayla.bastian@sdbor.edu.
About the board
The South Dakota Board of Regents is comprised of nine members who govern public higher education in South Dakota. The governor appoints board members for six-year terms; one student regent is appointed for a two-year term.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The South Dakota Board of Regents is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Board of Regents ensures that all employment practices are free of discrimination. Applicants must be U.S. Citizens. Arrangements for accommodation required by disabilities can be made by contacting Kayla Bastian at 605-773-3455 or kayla.bastian@sdbor.edu.