STUDENT AFFAIRS ANNUAL REPORT (2025-2026) 26 SIGNIFICANT LEADERSHIP TRANSITIONS AT NORTHERN The 2025-26 academic year marked a period of significant leadership transition at Northern State University. While change is a natural part of any institution's evolution, the number of long-serving leaders departing or retiring during a single year made this an especially noteworthy chapter in Northern's history. The transition began with the conclusion of Interim President Laurie Nichols' service and the arrival of Northern's 19th president, Dr. Alan LaFave, in January 2026. Dr. LaFave assumed leadership following an important period of stability and guidance under Dr. Nichols, whose leadership helped position the university for its next chapter. Shortly before the presidential transition, Dr. Mike Wanous, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, announced his retirement in December 2025 after a distinguished career in higher education and service to Northern. His announcement was followed by the retirement announcement of Veronica Paulson, Northern's long-serving Vice President for Finance and Administration. During the spring semester, another respected campus leader announced her departure. Dr. Alyssa Kiesow, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and a dedicated member of Northern's faculty and academic leadership team, concluded her time at Northern by announcing that she will be the next Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Texas A&M University-Victoria. Her career at Northern was marked by a deep commitment to student learning, faculty excellence, and academic innovation. While their departures are bittersweet, they also create opportunities for new perspectives, fresh ideas, and continued growth. As Northern looks to the future, the university remains grateful for the service and dedication of these leaders while embracing the opportunities that accompany a new generation of leadership. Their legacy provides a strong foundation upon which Northern will continue to build in the years ahead. BHIC OPENS! January 2026 — The Business & Health Innovation Center (informally known as the BHIC) officially opened this spring, welcoming students, faculty, and staff into its modern classrooms, labs, and collaborative spaces. Construction of this new building began in summer 2024 and is transforming the academic core of Northern State University. This $33.65 million, state‑of‑the‑art facility now houses the Northern School of Business, the Department of Nursing, and the Northern Innovation & Start‑Up Center. Funded in part by $29.5 million in federal support through the American Rescue Plan Act and an additional $1.5 million from the South Dakota Legislature for planning, the center is designed to be a hub for education, collaboration, and entrepreneurship. The innovative spaces and updated technology equip students to meet the evolving demands of today’s workforce.
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