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President’s Column: Student-Focused and Learning-Centered Begins with People

By Allen Burgad, Interim President During my short time serving as Interim President at Valley City State University, I have had the opportunity to spend time and learn from many members of our campus community. Through those conversations, I quickly connected with the importance of our core values, which include: Student-Focused: Placing students at the …

President’s Column: Affordability Matters – And VCSU Delivers

By Dr. Allen Burgad, Interim VCSU President Throughout my tenure at Valley City State University, I have had the privilege of meeting with countless high school students and families exploring their college options. When I ask prospective students what draws them to VCSU, their answers are remarkably consistent: A family member, friend, or teacher attended …

NDUS Launches VCSU Presidential Search

BISMARCK, N.D. – The North Dakota University System (NDUS) has opened the search for the president of Valley City State University (VCSU) and is now inviting applications and nominations for the position. The State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) and the VCSU Presidential Search Committee seek an inspirational leader who is visionary, collaborative, and deeply …

NDUS Names VCSU Presidential Search Committee Members

VALLEY CITY (NDUS) – The North Dakota University System (NDUS) announced the selection of committee members today for Valley City State University’s (VCSU) presidential search. “We appreciate your dedication to the presidential search committee. The insight and perspective each member brings to the group is vital to shaping VCSU’s future,” said NDUS Commissioner Brent Sanford. State …

Dr. Allen Burgad begins tenure as Interim President

VALLEY CITY (VCSU) – Dr. Allen Burgad officially began his tenure as interim President for Valley City State University on Tuesday, Dec. 16. Current President Dr. Alan LaFave is leaving VCSU to lead his alma mater, Northern State University in Aberdeen, S.D. His final day at VCSU will be Dec. 31, 2025. Burgad’s and LaFave’s …

Dr. Allen Burgad appointed interim President for VCSU

BISMARCK, N.D. – The State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) today appointed Dr. Allen Burgad as interim President of Valley City State University beginning Jan. 1, 2026. Current President Alan LaFave is leaving VCSU to lead his alma mater, Northern State University in Aberdeen, S.D. His final day at VCSU will be Dec. 31, 2025. …

President’s Column: New Year Brings New Energy To Campus

By Alan LaFave, VCSU President Greetings from Valley City State University! The start of a new academic year is upon us, and the energy on campus these past few weeks has been electric — a perfect blend of anticipation, new beginnings, and deep-rooted Viking pride. New students moved into their residence halls on August 22, …

President’s Column: Breaking Ground on Tharaldson Family Athletic Center

By Alan LaFave, VCSU President Greetings from Valley City State University! We are proud to celebrate the official groundbreaking ceremony for the highly anticipated Tharaldson Family Athletic Center, scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. on the south side of “The Bubble” on the VCSU campus. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone …

President’s Column: VCSU proud to play large role in local economy

By Dr. Alan LaFave Greetings from VCSU and Happy New Year to all! As we prepare for the upcoming legislative session, we know there are many items of importance that will be discussed and decided. The economic contribution of the North Dakota University System is reviewed and studied each biennium. The most recent study, released …

President’s Column: Reflections of gratitude for 2024 and looking forward to 2025

The days between Christmas and the beginning of the New Year give us all an opportunity to look back, reflect with gratitude on our work together and continue plans for moving ahead. I’d like to highlight just a few of the accomplishments and some reflections on the past semester. Enrollment For the first time in …