North Dakota State University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

North Dakota State University has 9 executives leading key functions including institutional strategy, administrative operations, financial management, information technology, and student organization leadership.

Committed to academic excellence and research innovation, North Dakota State University functions as a premier land-grant institution dedicated to solving global challenges through advanced knowledge creation and student-focused education.

Leadership Roles at North Dakota State University

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - James Miller
  • Chief Financial Officer - Carol Gustad
  • President, Women In Business - Lucylia Paul
  • President - Marshall Stewart
  • President of Plant Pathology Organization - Neeraja Narra
  • President - Ali Sugule
  • President, SSA - Yahye Hashim
  • Chief of Staff - Christopher Wilson
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Marc Wallman
  • James Miller - President & Chief Executive Officer

    James Miller, the President & Chief Executive Officer at North Dakota State University, directs the overarching strategic vision and academic mission of the institution. Overseeing the integration of research initiatives with student learning outcomes, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains its status as a top-ranked research engine. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board and faculty to advance technological development and educational accessibility across the region. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders, James Miller drives the economic impact of the university on a national scale. The President & Chief Executive Officer prioritizes the cultivation of future leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges. Through rigorous oversight of institutional policies, Miller secures the long-term growth and academic integrity of the university, ensuring that every department aligns with the core land-grant mandate of creating new knowledge for the public good.

    Carol Gustad - Chief Financial Officer

    Carol Gustad, the Chief Financial Officer at North Dakota State University, oversees the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the institution. Managing the allocation of research grants and operational budgets, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that resources support the university's commitment to affordable, high-quality education. This leadership role involves analyzing economic trends to guide investment in new technology and infrastructure. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, Carol Gustad supports the university's capacity to conduct primary research and advance knowledge. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to ensure that fiscal strategies align with the overarching mission of the university. Through the prudent management of assets and revenue streams, Gustad secures the financial stability required for sustained academic growth. This role directly impacts the ability of the institution to provide excellent learning environments for students while expanding the reach of research programs.

    Lucylia Paul - President, Women In Business

    Lucylia Paul, the President, Women In Business at North Dakota State University, leads initiatives focused on professional development and leadership training for students within the business community. Overseeing networking events and mentorship programs, the President, Women In Business ensures that members gain the skills necessary for success in competitive markets. This role involves organizing workshops that connect students with industry professionals to foster career growth. By promoting an inclusive environment, Lucylia Paul drives the mission of empowering future leaders to create solutions for national business challenges. The President, Women In Business collaborates with faculty advisors to align organizational activities with the university's academic standards. Through the facilitation of professional growth opportunities, Paul enhances the practical experience of students. This leadership role remains critical for building a strong network of professionals who contribute to the economic vitality of the region and beyond.

    Marshall Stewart - President

    Marshall Stewart, the President at North Dakota State University, focuses on the expansion of outreach programs and community engagement initiatives. Overseeing the connection between university research and public application, the President ensures that the institution serves as a catalyst for regional development. This role involves building partnerships with local and national stakeholders to translate academic knowledge into practical solutions. By championing the land-grant mission, Marshall Stewart drives the university's impact on agricultural and social sectors. The President coordinates with various departments to ensure that community-facing programs remain aligned with the university's research goals. Through the promotion of collaborative projects, Stewart enhances the visibility and utility of the university's expertise. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining the university's role as an economic engine that educates students while actively shaping a better world through applied research and public service.
    Marshall Stewart

    Neeraja Narra - President of Plant Pathology Organization

    Neeraja Narra, the President of Plant Pathology Organization at North Dakota State University, directs the scientific focus and collaborative research efforts within the plant pathology department. Overseeing the investigation of crop diseases and sustainable agricultural practices, the President of Plant Pathology Organization ensures that research findings contribute to national food security. This role involves managing laboratory resources and guiding graduate students in the pursuit of new knowledge. By fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, Neeraja Narra drives the development of innovative solutions to complex biological challenges. The President of Plant Pathology Organization collaborates with other research leaders to secure funding and expand the reach of the department's work. Through the rigorous application of scientific methods, Narra advances the university's reputation as a top-ranked research institution. This leadership role remains essential for maintaining the high standards of research that define the university's contribution to global agricultural health.

    Ali Sugule - President

    Ali Sugule, the President at North Dakota State University, leads specific student-centered initiatives aimed at fostering academic excellence and cultural integration. Overseeing the development of programs that support student success, the President ensures that the university environment remains inclusive and intellectually stimulating. This role involves coordinating with student organizations to promote leadership and community involvement. By facilitating dialogue between the student body and administration, Ali Sugule drives the mission of creating a supportive learning environment. The President works to align student activities with the university's broader goals of research and knowledge creation. Through the implementation of engagement strategies, Sugule enhances the overall student experience and prepares graduates for future challenges. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining the vibrant campus culture that characterizes the university as a premier institution for higher education and personal development.

    Yahye Hashim - President, SSA

    Yahye Hashim, the President, SSA at North Dakota State University, manages the strategic direction and advocacy efforts for the student organization. Overseeing the representation of student interests, the President, SSA ensures that the organization provides a platform for academic and social growth. This role involves organizing events that promote student engagement and professional development. By fostering a sense of community, Yahye Hashim drives the mission of supporting students as they navigate their academic journey. The President, SSA collaborates with university leadership to ensure that student needs are addressed within the broader institutional framework. Through the coordination of advocacy initiatives, Hashim enhances the influence of the student body on campus policy. This leadership role remains critical for building a cohesive student community that contributes to the university's reputation as a student-focused research institution dedicated to shaping future leaders.

    Christopher Wilson - Chief of Staff

    Christopher Wilson, the Chief of Staff at North Dakota State University, manages the daily administrative operations and executive communications for the office of the President. Coordinating cross-departmental projects, the Chief of Staff ensures that institutional priorities receive consistent attention and resources. This role involves facilitating high-level meetings and streamlining decision-making processes to enhance organizational efficiency. By acting as a primary liaison between the executive leadership and various academic units, Christopher Wilson maintains operational alignment with the university's strategic goals. The Chief of Staff monitors the execution of university-wide initiatives, ensuring that administrative workflows support the broader research and teaching mission. Through careful management of internal communications and project timelines, Wilson optimizes the effectiveness of the executive team. This position remains vital for maintaining the operational rhythm necessary to support the university's status as a leading research institution.

    Marc Wallman - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Marc Wallman, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at North Dakota State University, architects the digital infrastructure necessary for modern research and academic instruction. Overseeing the deployment of advanced computing systems, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures that students and faculty possess the tools required for innovation. This role involves managing cybersecurity protocols and data integrity across the entire campus network. By integrating new technology into the learning environment, Marc Wallman drives the digital transformation of the university. The Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer coordinates with academic departments to support data-intensive research projects that shape global solutions. Through the strategic implementation of scalable IT solutions, Wallman enhances the operational efficiency of the institution. This leadership position remains essential for maintaining the technological edge that defines the university's research capabilities and educational delivery.
    Marc Wallman

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding North Dakota State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads North Dakota State University?
    North Dakota State University is led by James Miller (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Carol Gustad (Chief Financial Officer) and Lucylia Paul (President, Women In Business).
    Who is part of North Dakota State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of North Dakota State University includes leaders such as James Miller (President & Chief Executive Officer), Carol Gustad (Chief Financial Officer), Lucylia Paul (President, Women In Business) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does North Dakota State University have?
    North Dakota State University has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in North Dakota State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of North Dakota State University includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Women In Business, President, President of Plant Pathology Organization.