PIERRE — The South Dakota Board of Regents recently announced the appointment of Alan D. LaFave as the next president of Northern State University (NSU) in Aberdeen, starting in January.
LaFave returns to NSU after seven years leading Valley City State University in North Dakota, a time marked by growth and new partnerships. He has deep ties to NSU, having spent nearly 30 years there in various roles, from music instructor to dean of the School of Fine Arts. His academic journey includes a bachelor’s degree from NSU and both a master’s and a doctorate from Arizona State University.
Board President Tim Rave expressed confidence in LaFave’s leadership, stating, “He has a strong understanding of NSU and a proven track record in higher education. We believe he will lead the university into a successful future, engaging both students and the community.”
LaFave is looking forward to his return. “I’m excited to embrace NSU’s legacy while steering it towards growth and innovation,” he said. He aims to strengthen relationships with local partners and address workforce needs in the region.
His appointment comes after a thorough search, involving the board, NSU’s search committee, and community feedback. This collective effort underscores the importance of selecting a leader who is deeply rooted in the university and committed to its future. As LaFave steps into this role, the potential for collaborative projects and community engagement is promising.
In recent trends, universities across the U.S. are focusing more on community partnerships to enhance student success and workforce readiness. LaFave’s extensive experience in building such collaborations could prove beneficial. According to a recent survey from the American Council on Education, 83% of college leaders believe partnerships with local businesses can boost student employability. LaFave’s strategy at NSU may align well with this growing trend.
For more details on higher education initiatives and trends, check the [American Council on Education](https://www.acenet.edu) for the latest research.
Source link
Brookings Register, local news, Brookings, South Dakota, community updates, events, sports coverage, local information, Jackrabbits, SDSU, Bobcats
