4 NORTHERN MAGAZINE NSU NEWS Wanous, Paulson Announce Retirements Northern State University announced the retirements of Dr. Michael Wanous, provost and vice president for academic affairs, and Veronica Paulson, vice president for finance and administration. Wanous joined Northern in July 2019 and retired in December 2025. During his tenure, he launched the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, established the Northern Edge award providing $10,000 per year for student research, and created the Northern Academy program for high school dual credit students. “It has been a privilege to serve as the chief academic officer of Northern State University,” Wanous said. “Northern is a truly special place because of the incredibly talented and dedicated faculty and staff.” Paulson joined Northern in 1990 and will retire in June 2026 after more than 35 years of service. She led the implementation of multiple financial information systems and managed transformational building projects totaling $168 million that modernized every major sector on campus. “Veronica leaves a legacy at Northern State University through her visionary leadership and financial stewardship,” said Dr. Laurie Nichols, who served as interim president during the presidential transition, a period which also included Paulson’s retirement announcement. A 1985 Northern graduate, Paulson said she’ll miss the people most: “After 35 years, you become friends and not just colleagues.” Dr. Alan LaFave Named Northern’s President The South Dakota Board of Regents announced the appointment of Dr. Alan LaFave as Northern State University’s president. Dr. LaFave assumed the presidency on Jan. 5, 2026. Dr. LaFave returns to Northern after serving seven years as president of Valley City State University in North Dakota. His appointment marks a homecoming, as Dr. LaFave spent nearly three decades at Northern, advancing from music instructor to provost and vice president for academic affairs. “I am thrilled, honored and humbled to be selected as the next president of Northern State University,” said Dr. LaFave after the announcement in November. “With over 30 years of experience on campus as both a student and employee, my ties to Northern State and the Aberdeen community run deep. This is an incredible opportunity to make a meaningful impact at my alma mater.” During his tenure at Valley City State, Dr. LaFave led significant growth initiatives and fostered strategic partnerships that strengthened the institution’s regional impact. At Northern, he previously served as dean of the School of Fine Arts, associate dean, department chair and professor of music. Dr. LaFave earned his bachelor’s degree in music education from Northern State University and his master’s and doctoral degrees from Arizona State University. Dr. LaFave succeeds Dr. Neal Schnoor, who departed to serve as chancellor of the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
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