VPAA Leadership Searches

Current Searches

Nistler College of Business & Public Administration Dean

The University of North Dakota invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration.

Reporting directly to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Dean serves as the chief academic and administrative leader of one of UND’s most dynamic and forward-looking colleges. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, advance the College’s mission, and help align its continued growth with the University's strategic vision, UND LEADS.

The next Dean will build upon Nistler’s strong foundation and reputation for excellence by fostering innovative academic programs, supporting impactful scholarship and creative activity, recruiting and developing outstanding faculty and staff, and enhancing the student experience. The Dean will also play a vital role in fundraising, external partnerships, community engagement, and government relations.

For more information on the search and the position visit the Search Page. 

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.