North Dakota State University Executive and Leadership Team

Nelson Morris, the Chief Executive Officer at North Dakota State University, directs the overarching strategic vision for this land-grant research institution. Morris architects long-term growth initiatives that align academic programs with evolving national workforce demands. By overseeing the integration of primary research into the undergraduate experience, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the university maintains a competitive edge in higher education. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships across the state and beyond to secure funding for critical technological advancements. Nelson Morris drives the implementation of policies that expand affordable access to high-quality education. Through rigorous oversight of institutional performance metrics, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the university remains an economic engine for the region. Ultimately, Morris fosters a culture of innovation that empowers students to address global challenges through scientific discovery and collaborative learning environments.

James Miller, the President & Chief Executive Officer at North Dakota State University, manages the comprehensive operational and academic health of the institution. Miller coordinates the efforts of the executive cabinet to ensure that research output directly translates into tangible societal benefits. Overseeing the university's commitment to land-grant principles, the President & Chief Executive Officer facilitates partnerships that bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial application. This leadership role requires constant engagement with the Board to refine the strategic roadmap for future campus expansion. James Miller drives initiatives that enhance the student experience, focusing on retention and career readiness in a rapidly changing global economy. By prioritizing fiscal responsibility alongside academic rigor, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term sustainability of the university. Miller maintains a focus on creating a diverse, inclusive environment that attracts top-tier faculty and researchers.

Carol Gustad, the Chief Financial Officer at North Dakota State University, directs the financial strategy and resource allocation for the entire research institution. Gustad architects robust fiscal frameworks that support the university's mission of creating new knowledge and advancing technology. Overseeing the management of endowments, grants, and operational budgets, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources directly fuel academic and research excellence. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board to maintain long-term financial stability while funding capital projects that enhance the campus infrastructure. Carol Gustad drives the implementation of cost-effective practices that maximize the impact of every dollar spent on student services and faculty research. By monitoring economic trends and regulatory requirements, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates financial risk across the organization. Gustad secures the necessary capital to sustain the university's position as a top-ranked research institution.

Lucylia Paul, the President, Women In Business at North Dakota State University, directs professional development initiatives that empower students to excel in the corporate sector. Paul architects networking opportunities and mentorship programs that connect aspiring leaders with industry professionals. Overseeing the organization's outreach efforts, the President, Women In Business ensures that students gain practical experience through workshops and collaborative projects. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment that encourages women to pursue careers in business and technology. Lucylia Paul drives the expansion of the organization's influence by building partnerships with regional businesses and alumni networks. By facilitating skill-building sessions, the President, Women In Business prepares the next generation of leaders to navigate the complexities of the modern economy. Paul ensures that the organization remains a vital resource for students seeking to bridge the gap between academic preparation and professional success.

Ali Sugule, the President at North Dakota State University, directs the student-led governance and advocacy efforts that shape the campus culture. Sugule architects initiatives that promote student welfare and academic success within the university's research-focused environment. Overseeing the representation of student interests to the administration, the President ensures that the student voice remains central to institutional decision-making. This leadership role involves coordinating with various student organizations to foster a vibrant and inclusive community. Ali Sugule drives the implementation of programs that enhance student engagement and support the university's mission of educating future leaders. By facilitating dialogue between the student body and faculty, the President creates a collaborative atmosphere that encourages innovation and personal growth. Sugule maintains a focus on addressing the needs of a diverse student population while promoting the university's values of excellence and service.

Connor Petersen, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics President at North Dakota State University, directs the technical and professional development of students interested in aerospace engineering. Petersen architects projects that apply classroom knowledge to real-world aeronautical challenges, supporting the university's mission of advancing technology. Overseeing the organization's participation in national competitions, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics President ensures that students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge aerospace systems. This leadership role involves organizing seminars and industry visits that connect students with experts in the field. Connor Petersen drives the growth of the organization by promoting interdisciplinary collaboration among engineering students. By fostering a culture of technical excellence, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics President prepares members for successful careers in the aerospace industry. Petersen ensures that the organization remains a key contributor to the university's reputation for research and innovation.

Marshall Stewart, the President at North Dakota State University, directs the strategic outreach and community engagement efforts that extend the university's impact beyond the campus. Stewart architects programs that connect the institution's research capabilities with the needs of the agricultural and industrial sectors. Overseeing the university's extension services, the President ensures that new knowledge is effectively disseminated to stakeholders across the region. This leadership role involves building strong relationships with local and national partners to support the university's land-grant mission. Marshall Stewart drives initiatives that promote economic development and technological advancement in rural and urban communities alike. By aligning outreach activities with the university's research goals, the President maximizes the societal benefits of the institution's work. Stewart maintains a focus on ensuring that the university remains a responsive and accessible resource for all citizens.

Ellie Lerfald, the President, Women In Business at North Dakota State University, directs the strategic planning and event execution for the organization's professional development series. Lerfald architects programs that focus on leadership training and career advancement for students entering the business world. Overseeing the organization's internal operations, the President, Women In Business ensures that all activities align with the university's goal of preparing students for global challenges. This leadership role involves managing the organization's budget and coordinating with faculty advisors to provide high-quality resources. Ellie Lerfald drives the recruitment of guest speakers and industry mentors who provide valuable insights into current market trends. By fostering a supportive community, the President, Women In Business helps students build the confidence and skills necessary for professional success. Lerfald ensures that the organization remains a cornerstone of the university's commitment to student development and career readiness.

Christopher Wilson, the Chief of Staff at North Dakota State University, manages the daily operations of the executive office to ensure seamless communication across all administrative departments. Wilson architects the flow of information between the President and the broader university leadership, facilitating efficient decision-making processes. Overseeing the execution of high-priority institutional projects, the Chief of Staff aligns departmental goals with the university's core mission of research and education. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to address urgent operational challenges and long-term strategic objectives. Christopher Wilson drives the development of internal policies that streamline administrative workflows and improve organizational transparency. By managing the executive calendar and prioritizing key initiatives, the Chief of Staff enables the leadership team to focus on critical growth areas. Wilson ensures that all institutional activities remain consistent with the university's commitment to excellence and community engagement.

Marc Wallman, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at North Dakota State University, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the campus. Wallman architects scalable cloud solutions and secure network environments that support the university's intensive research activities. Overseeing the deployment of advanced computing resources, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer ensures that faculty and students possess the tools required for modern scientific inquiry. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive research data and institutional information. Marc Wallman drives the integration of emerging technologies into the classroom to enhance the learning experience. By aligning IT investments with the university's strategic goals, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer supports the institution's role as a leader in technological advancement. Wallman maintains a focus on digital accessibility and operational efficiency across all departments.