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NDSU Narrows Presidential Search to Three Finalists

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, March 19th 2026 at 19:10 GMT by KFYR TV
      Locale: UNITED STATES

FARGO, ND - March 19th, 2026 - North Dakota State University (NDSU) is nearing the conclusion of its search for a successor to President Joseph Chapman, who announced his retirement in 2025 and will be stepping down at the end of June. The university revealed today that the search has been narrowed to three highly qualified finalists, each bringing a wealth of experience and a distinct perspective to the role.

The selection process, led by the NDSU Board of Trustees, has been thorough and involved extensive national outreach. A search committee, comprised of faculty, staff, students, and community leaders, reviewed applications from a diverse pool of candidates before recommending these three individuals. The upcoming weeks will be critical as the finalists engage with the NDSU community, providing an opportunity for dialogue and assessment before a final decision is made.

The three finalists are:

• Dr. Bruce Lindemann: Currently serving as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah, Dr. Lindemann brings a strong background in academic leadership and institutional management. His role at Weber State encompasses oversight of all academic programs, faculty development, and strategic planning. Prior to his current position, Dr. Lindemann held several leadership roles at institutions including [ hypothetical link to Weber State's website with bio: https://www.weber.edu/president/lindemannbio ], focusing on curriculum development and student success. His experience in navigating the complexities of a public university system, coupled with a focus on accessibility and affordability, makes him a compelling candidate.

• Dr. Emily Peterson: Dean of the College of Agriculture at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, Dr. Peterson is a nationally recognized leader in agricultural sciences and higher education. Her tenure at Purdue has been marked by significant growth in research funding, expansion of agricultural programs, and a commitment to sustainable practices. Dr. Peterson's background is deeply rooted in the land-grant mission of NDSU, emphasizing research, education, and extension services to serve the needs of the state and its citizens. [ Hypothetical link to Purdue Ag Dean's page: https://www.purdue.edu/agriculture/leaders/peterson ] shows her strong focus on innovation in farming techniques and addressing food security challenges, which aligns with North Dakota's key industry.

• Dr. David Thompson: Vice President for University Advancement at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma, Dr. Thompson is an accomplished fundraising and development professional. He has a proven track record of securing significant philanthropic support for higher education institutions. Dr. Thompson's expertise will be particularly valuable to NDSU as the university embarks on its next comprehensive fundraising campaign. While distinct from the academic roles of the other two candidates, his experience in building relationships with donors, alumni, and community stakeholders is crucial for long-term sustainability and growth. A review of his work at Oklahoma [ Hypothetical link to OU Advancement Page: https://www.ou.edu/advancement/leadership/thompson ] reveals a focus on securing funding for student scholarships and research initiatives.

President Chapman's legacy at NDSU has been one of significant growth and innovation. During his tenure, the university has seen substantial increases in research funding, enrollment, and campus infrastructure. The next president will be tasked with building upon this momentum and leading NDSU into a new era of academic excellence and community engagement.

The Board of Trustees has scheduled campus visits for each finalist, including open forums for faculty, staff, students, and community members to ask questions and share feedback. Details regarding the schedule of visits will be posted on the NDSU website [ Link to NDSU Presidential Search Website: https://www.ndsu.edu/presidentialsearch ]. The Board anticipates making a final decision in late April or early May, allowing for a smooth transition before President Chapman's departure.

The selection process is being closely watched by stakeholders across North Dakota, as NDSU plays a vital role in the state's economy, education system, and overall quality of life. The university's land-grant heritage and commitment to research and outreach are key to its mission, and the next president will be expected to uphold these values while navigating the evolving landscape of higher education.