The Iowa Board of Regents has chosen David Cook as the 17th president of Iowa State University. He will take over from Wendy Wintersteen, who is retiring after serving nearly a decade. Cook, an Iowa State alumnus, will begin his role on March 1, 2026.
Cook has been president of North Dakota State University (NDSU) since 2022. NDSU is a significant land-grant university with around 12,000 students and a budget of nearly $972 million. During his tenure, he focused on student success by implementing a strategic plan that improved enrollment, retention, and graduation rates.
Under Cook’s leadership, NDSU saw research funding soar. The university even secured a grant from the National Science Foundation aimed at boosting agricultural technology, potentially bringing in $160 million in federal support. He has also led efforts to raise funds for projects in artificial intelligence and modern agriculture.
Before joining NDSU, Cook was the vice chancellor for public affairs at the University of Kansas. There, he helped create the first economic development office and align university initiatives with federal goals. Cook also has extensive experience as a researcher and educator, with nearly 70 published pieces and over 25 courses taught.
Cook holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and speech communication from Iowa State, along with a master’s and a Ph.D. in organizational communication from the University of Kansas.
The search for Iowa State’s new president lasted four months and involved a 12-member committee. Cook’s annual salary will be $700,000, along with a five-year deferred compensation plan starting when he takes office.
As we look to the future, the leadership at Iowa State will be crucial in navigating the challenges faced by higher education today. Institutions must adapt to changing student needs, budget constraints, and the evolving job market. Cook’s experience in enhancing enrollment and funding could be vital as he steps into this pivotal role.
For more information on higher education trends, visit the Pew Research Center.
