NDUS announces co-chairs of VCSU’s presidential search committee
BISMARCK, N.D. – The North Dakota University System (NDUS) announced the selection of co-chairs to lead the Valley City State University (VCSU) Presidential Search Committee. State Board of Higher Education Vice Chair D.J. Campbell and VCSU Vice President for Business Affairs Erica Buchholz will serve as co-chairs of the search process.
The search committee is being established following the announcement that VCSU President Alan LaFave, who has served since 2018, will become president of his alma mater, Northern State University in Aberdeen, S.D. His final day at VCSU will be December 31, 2025.
“Campbell brings significant expertise in talent identification and recruitment, while Buchholz offers substantial insight into VCSU’s operations and priorities,” said NDUS Commissioner Brent Sanford. “Their leadership will be instrumental as the committee evaluates candidates to carry VCSU’s mission into the future.”
The Presidential Search Committee will include representatives from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members. The committee’s work will begin immediately, with the goal of recommending finalists to the State Board of Higher Education in the coming months.
“This is an important moment for VCSU,” said Campbell. “We are committed to leading a transparent and inclusive process that ensures the next president is well prepared to guide the university into the future. Our goal is to engage the entire VCSU community and identify a leader who will continue to build on the university’s strong foundation of student success and innovation.”
Until a permanent president is selected, an interim president will be needed. Under SBHE policy, the SBHE selects an interim president based on recommendations from the NDUS Commissioner Sanford, who issued a Request for Letters of Interest from individuals wishing to be considered for the VCSU interim presidency. It is expected that this interim appointment will continue until the permanent president is hired, likely in late spring 2026.
An executive session will be added to the SBHE’s December 4, 2025, agenda. During that session, the Board will discuss the appointment of an interim president at VCSU.
About Valley City State University
Valley City State University, a member of the North Dakota University System, is a student-focused institution committed to academic excellence and innovation. Founded in 1890 and located in Valley City, North Dakota, VCSU offers more than 65 undergraduate programs and graduate degrees. Known for its nationally recognized teacher education program and small class sizes, VCSU prepares students for success through hands-on experiences and strong faculty support. Learn more at www.vcsu.edu.
About NDUS
The North Dakota University System is a unified system of higher education governed by the State Board of Higher Education. Organized in 1990, the system includes two research universities, four regional universities and five community colleges.
The mission of the State Board of Higher Education and the Commissioner of the North Dakota University System is to unleash the potential of higher education in the state to enhance the quality of life, and the social and economic vitality of all served by its public colleges and universities.