Dr. Brian Kalk named president at Bismarck State College

Kalk to lead North Dakota's polytechnic institution, focus on student success and workforce connections

Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:00am

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The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education has selected Dr. Brian Kalk, the current Chief Research Officer at the University of North Dakota's Energy and Environmental Research Center, as the next president of Bismarck State College. Kalk will assume his new role on April 13, with a focus on strengthening BSC's position as North Dakota's polytechnic institution, expanding partnerships, and equipping students with skills to drive the state forward.

Why it matters

Bismarck State College plays a crucial role in North Dakota's higher education landscape, providing polytechnic education and workforce training to meet the region's evolving needs. Kalk's appointment signals the institution's commitment to staying ahead of industry demands and ensuring students are prepared for in-demand careers.

The details

During his on-campus visit, Kalk spoke about his priorities, which include student success, workforce-connection, and service to North Dakota. He acknowledged that a key challenge will be continuing to expand BSC's role to meet the region's needs, which will require collaboration with faculty, the State Board of Higher Education, and community stakeholders.

  • Kalk was selected by the North Dakota State Board of Higher Education as the next president at Bismarck State College during a meeting at the college on Tuesday.
  • Kalk assumes his new role on April 13, 2026.

The players

Brian Kalk

The current Chief Research Officer at the University of North Dakota's Energy and Environmental Research Center, who was selected as the next president of Bismarck State College.

North Dakota State Board of Higher Education

The governing body that selected Kalk as the next president of Bismarck State College.

Bismarck State College

A polytechnic institution in North Dakota that Kalk will lead as the new president.

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What they’re saying

“With Brian Kalk chosen to lead Bismarck State College, the institution is poised to strengthen its role as North Dakota's polytechnic. His approach reflects a future where education and industry work hand‑in‑hand while anticipating workforce needs, expanding partnerships, and equipping students with the skills that will drive the state forward.”

— Kevin Black, SBHE Chair

“I couldn't be more excited to be part of the future of Bismarck State College. BSC has always held a special place in my heart, and I'm honored to step into this role at such a pivotal moment. I believe deeply in the polytechnic experience because it is an approach that puts students first and connects education directly to workforce opportunity. Student success must be our priority, and that begins with creating an exceptional student experience. BSC is positioned for tremendous growth, and I look forward to working with our campus and our community to build on that momentum.”

— Brian Kalk

What’s next

Kalk will assume his new role as president of Bismarck State College on April 13, 2026, where he will work to strengthen the institution's position as North Dakota's polytechnic and expand partnerships to meet the region's evolving workforce needs.

The takeaway

Kalk's appointment as the new president of Bismarck State College underscores the institution's commitment to providing polytechnic education and workforce training that aligns with industry demands in North Dakota. His focus on student success, collaboration, and anticipating future needs positions BSC for continued growth and impact in the state.