Minnesota State University Moorhead Executive and Leadership Team

Edna Szymanski, the 10th and President at Minnesota State University Moorhead, provides executive leadership and strategic vision for the entire institution. Directing academic policy and administrative operations, the 10th and President guides the university toward achieving its core mission of student success and community engagement. Edna Szymanski oversees the allocation of resources and the development of long-term institutional goals within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. By fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders and industry leaders, the 10th and President expands opportunities for research and experiential learning. This leadership role involves maintaining rigorous academic standards while ensuring the financial health of the university. Through consistent advocacy for faculty and student needs, Szymanski shapes the educational landscape of the campus. The 10th and President drives initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring the university remains a vital contributor to the regional economy and social fabric.

Megan Hintz, the MSUM Graduate SLP NSSLHA President at Minnesota State University Moorhead, leads student advocacy and professional development initiatives for the speech-language pathology program. Coordinating events and networking opportunities, the MSUM Graduate SLP NSSLHA President connects graduate students with clinical resources and industry experts. Megan Hintz facilitates communication between the student body and faculty to improve academic experiences and program outcomes. By organizing workshops and community outreach projects, the MSUM Graduate SLP NSSLHA President enhances the visibility of the department within the broader university community. This leadership role involves managing organizational logistics and fostering a collaborative environment for aspiring clinicians. Through the dedication of Hintz, the organization supports the professional growth of students preparing for careers in communication sciences. The MSUM Graduate SLP NSSLHA President ensures that student voices influence departmental decisions, ultimately strengthening the academic reputation of the university.

Anne Blackhurst, the President Emerita at Minnesota State University Moorhead, serves as a senior advisor and institutional ambassador. Providing historical context and strategic guidance, the President Emerita supports the ongoing mission of the university through mentorship and community engagement. Anne Blackhurst leverages extensive experience to assist current leadership in navigating complex academic challenges and long-term planning. By maintaining relationships with alumni and donors, the President Emerita strengthens the financial and social support networks of the institution. This role involves representing the university at high-level functions and advocating for the continued growth of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Through the contributions of Blackhurst, the university preserves its core values while adapting to evolving educational demands. The President Emerita ensures continuity in institutional culture, providing a bridge between past achievements and future aspirations for the entire campus community.

Sandie East, the Chief Information Officer at Minnesota State University Moorhead, directs the digital infrastructure and technological strategy across the campus. Managing complex network systems and cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for faculty, staff, and students. Sandie East oversees the integration of advanced educational software to support modern pedagogical methods. By aligning technical resources with the broader mission of the university, the Chief Information Officer facilitates efficient data management and digital accessibility. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of emerging technologies to maintain competitive standards within the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Through the implementation of robust IT policies, the Chief Information Officer safeguards institutional data while promoting innovation. The strategic oversight provided by East enables the university to leverage digital tools for enhanced academic outcomes and operational efficiency across all departments.

Kayla Kappes,, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Minnesota State University Moorhead, manages talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development. Overseeing the recruitment of diverse faculty and staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the university maintains a high-caliber workforce. Kayla Kappes, directs the administration of benefits, compensation structures, and professional development programs designed to foster a supportive workplace culture. By implementing equitable hiring practices and compliance standards, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the institutional foundation. This role requires close collaboration with department heads to align staffing needs with the long-term goals of the university. Through the optimization of human capital management, Kappes, drives employee engagement and retention. The Chief Human Resources Officer remains focused on cultivating an inclusive environment that reflects the values of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system while supporting the overall mission of academic excellence.