Dr. David Cook selected as NDSU's next president

(Fargo, ND) -- The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education has announced NDSU's next president.

The Board says they have selected Dr. David Cook to fill the position. Dr. Cook is currently the chancellor of the Office of Public Affairs and Economic Development at the University of Kansas.

"I would like to thank the co-chairs of the Presidential Search Committee and all the members who volunteered time; we owe the committee a debt of gratitude for the hundreds of hours you dedicated to the process, " said State Board of Higher Education Chairman Casey Ryan, "I have the utmost confidence in Dr. Cook’s leadership skills and commitment to the future of North Dakota State University and the entire state.”

Dr. David Cook says he was 'blown away' by the pride both the community and the state have for NDSU. He adds the school has a tremendous opportunity to expand partnerships and collaborations across the state. 

The Presidential Search Committee says the search began with 47 candidates, and slowly narrowed down to three individuals to be interviewed today for the presidential role. “We had a committed group of representatives from all facets of the NDSU and Fargo community and we all knew that we were doing very important work for the future of the North Dakota State University, " State Board of Higher Education vice chair Dr. Jill Louters, "I appreciate everyone who provided input to the presidential search committee. Through the process, we realized that we wanted a president who has a philosophy that is consistent with North Dakota values and has a vision that weaves into that culture. Dr. Cook is that person.”

Dr. Cook will fill the position no later than July 1st of 2022