North Dakota Opens Applications for State Higher Ed Board

Two positions on the State Board of Higher Education are up for grabs.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 2:14am

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North Dakota's State Superintendent of Public Instruction has opened the application period for two positions on the State's Board of Higher Education. The four-year terms of current board members Kevin Black and Danita Bye are expiring on June 30, with Black eligible for a second term and Bye having served two terms already.

Why it matters

The State Board of Higher Education oversees North Dakota's public university system, making decisions that impact thousands of students, faculty, and staff. Filling these positions is an important process that helps shape the future direction of higher education in the state.

The details

The application deadline for the two open positions is 5 p.m. on May 22. Each board member is eligible for up to two four-year terms as allowed by the North Dakota Constitution.

  • The current four-year terms of board members Kevin Black and Danita Bye expire on June 30, 2026.

The players

Kevin Black

Current member of the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education who is eligible for a second four-year term.

Danita Bye

Current member of the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education who has served two four-year terms and is not eligible for reappointment.

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What’s next

The State Superintendent of Public Instruction will review applications and make recommendations to the Governor, who will then appoint the new board members.

The takeaway

Serving on the State Board of Higher Education is an important role that helps shape the future of public higher education in North Dakota. The open application process ensures new voices and perspectives can join the board and contribute to key decisions.