North Dakota State Selects New President

Marshall Stewart to take over leadership role starting in late May.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:39pm

A grid of brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen images of a mortar board graduation cap, representing the transition of leadership at North Dakota State University.A vibrant celebration of academic achievement as North Dakota State University ushers in a new era of leadership.Fargo Today

North Dakota State University has announced the selection of Marshall Stewart as its next president. Stewart, who currently serves as the vice president for external engagement and chief of staff at Kansas State University, will succeed interim president Rick Berg and begin his new role on May 28th.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new university president is a significant event, as they will be responsible for setting the strategic vision and overseeing all aspects of the institution's operations. Stewart's background in external engagement and administration suggests he may focus on strengthening NDSU's connections with the local community and expanding the university's reach and influence.

The details

The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education announced Stewart's selection on Monday after a search process that considered 60 applicants and gathered input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. Stewart will be taking over for interim president Rick Berg, who has been leading the university since the previous president stepped down.

  • The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education announced Stewart's selection on Monday, March 31, 2026.
  • Stewart will begin his new role as NDSU president on May 28, 2026.

The players

Marshall Stewart

The incoming president of North Dakota State University, currently serving as the vice president for external engagement and chief of staff at Kansas State University.

Rick Berg

The interim president of North Dakota State University, who has been leading the university since the previous president stepped down.

North Dakota State Board of Higher Education

The governing body responsible for selecting the next president of North Dakota State University.

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What they’re saying

“We are excited to welcome Marshall Stewart as the next president of North Dakota State University. His experience in external engagement and administration will be invaluable as we work to strengthen the university's ties to the local community and expand its reach.”

— North Dakota State Board of Higher Education

What’s next

The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education will work closely with Marshall Stewart over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition of leadership at the university.

The takeaway

The selection of a new university president is a significant event that can shape the future direction and priorities of an institution. Marshall Stewart's background in external engagement suggests he may focus on strengthening NDSU's community ties and expanding the university's influence.