VPAA Leadership Searches

Recently Completed Searches

School of Law Dean

After a nationwide search, Vice Admiral (Ret.) Darse E. “Del” Crandall, Jr. has been appointed to the position of dean of the School of Law at the University of North Dakota. The appointment was made by Eric Link, UND provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. Crandall will begin his new role on July 1, 2026.

School of Graduate Studies Dean

University of North Dakota Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Eric Link has appointed Soojung Kim as dean of the UND School of Graduate Studies following a national search. Kim assumed the role April 21, 2026. Kim has served as interim dean since 2025, providing steady leadership while advancing key initiatives to support graduate education across the University.

Nistler College of Business & Public Administration Interim Dean

After an internal search, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Eric Link has appointed Patrick O'Neill, professor of Economics & Finance and associate dean, as the interim dean for the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration. Dr. O’Neill has been a faculty member at the University of North Dakota since 1987 and has held administrative positions since 2001. He will assume his new duties on July 1, 2025 and will serve until the permanent dean is named and in place.