The search committee for Valley City State University announced on Apr. 15 that it has suspended the ongoing process to find a new permanent president, following the withdrawal of several semi-finalist candidates.
The suspension comes as multiple candidates accepted other professional opportunities before scheduled campus visits, reducing the pool of contenders. This development prompted the committee to pause and reconsider its approach in order to secure a strong and diverse group of applicants for consideration by both the university and local community.
“The State Board is committed to identifying a leader who is the right fit for Valley City State University and its future,” said DJ Campbell, search committee co-chair and vice chair of the State Board of Higher Education. Campbell added, “At the outset, the search committee at VCSU was committed to bringing a robust group of semi-finalists to campus for consideration and evaluation by the campus and Valley City 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.”
During this transition period, Dr. Allen Burgad will continue as interim president. The university credited Burgad’s steady leadership with providing continuity and stability during this time.
Co-chairs Erica Buchholz, VCSU vice president for finance, and Campbell will work with state education officials on evaluating options moving forward. The anticipated relaunch of the presidential search will be communicated as decisions are made.
Valley City State University said it remains focused on delivering high quality education while supporting students and serving both community needs.
