The search committee for Valley City State University (VCSU) announced on Apr. 15 that it has suspended its current search for a permanent president. The decision comes after several semi-finalist candidates withdrew from consideration, having accepted other professional opportunities before scheduled campus visits.
The pause in the process is significant as VCSU seeks to ensure it selects a leader who aligns with the university’s needs and future direction. Search committee Co-Chair and State Board of Higher Education Vice Chair, DJ Campbell, said, “The State Board is committed to identifying a leader who is the right fit for Valley City State University and its future.”
Campbell explained that the original goal was to bring a strong group of semi-finalists to campus for evaluation by both the university and local community. “Because recent withdrawals limited our ability to meet that goal, the committee agreed it is in the best interest of the institution to pause the search and reassess next steps to ensure a strong and diverse candidate pool for campus and community consideration,” Campbell said.
During this transition period, Dr. Allen Burgad will continue as interim president of VCSU. The announcement highlighted Burgad’s steady leadership and his connection with the institution as factors providing continuity during this time.
Search committee co-chairs Erica Buchholz, VCSU Vice President for Finance, and DJ Campbell will work with the State Board of Higher Education on evaluating options going forward. They anticipate relaunching the search at a later date and plan to update the campus community as decisions are made.
Valley City State University affirmed its ongoing commitment to providing high quality education, supporting students, and serving both community and state needs.
