Dr. Tim Downs officially takes over as new MSUM president; wants to build relationships and increase enrollment

(Fargo, ND) -- The new president at MSUM talked about what he thinks is a strength for the university.

"Again, it's the people. The people that I've met, and in fact I met a gentleman today when I was going to get a snack and it turns out he'd worked there for 40 years. (He) was a student there and never left, and he has coffee there everyday. So I don't think he's ever leaving. So, a place like that is very special. It's a culture, it's a community of learners, and everybody is learning, including me," said Dr. Tim Downs. 

Dr. Tim Downs first official day on the job was July third. 

He acknowledges the university faces a challenge, like most other universities and colleges, when it comes to student enrollment and retention. 

Downs also said he's looking forward to building relationships in the community and the region. 

Downs most recently served as interim chief of staff at Cal Poly Humboldt in California. 

Downs appeared on WDAY Mid Day.