BISMARCK, ND – Brian Kalk, a North Dakota native with deep roots in the state’s higher education system, has been selected as the next president of Bismarck State College. The decision, made Tuesday by the State Board of Higher Education, marks a return home for Kalk, who currently serves as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, South Dakota. The appointment comes as Bismarck State College navigates a period of growth and evolving workforce needs in western North Dakota.
Kalk’s selection follows a national search to replace Doug Jensen, who announced his retirement in December 2023 after 12 years leading the institution. The North Dakota University System announced the decision, highlighting Kalk’s experience in technical education and his commitment to student success. He is expected to start his duties on July 1st.
A North Dakota Education Legacy
Kalk’s connection to North Dakota education runs deep. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics education from Dickinson State University in 1993, and later a Master of Science in mathematics from North Dakota State University. He began his career as a mathematics instructor at Bismarck State College in 1996, steadily rising through the ranks to become Dean of Arts and Sciences before departing for South Dakota in 2018. His previous tenure at Bismarck State provides him with a unique understanding of the college’s strengths, challenges, and its role within the Bismarck community.
During his time at Lake Area Technical College, Kalk has been instrumental in expanding academic programs and fostering partnerships with local businesses to address workforce demands. He oversaw the development of new programs in areas like cybersecurity and healthcare, aligning curriculum with industry needs. This experience is expected to be particularly valuable as Bismarck State College continues to focus on career and technical education, especially in support of the energy sector and other key industries in western North Dakota.
The Search Process and Board Deliberations
The State Board of Higher Education initiated the presidential search in January, forming a search committee comprised of faculty, staff, students, and community members. The committee reviewed applications from across the country, ultimately narrowing the field to a handful of finalists who underwent interviews with the board. According to board members, Kalk stood out for his vision for the future of Bismarck State College and his demonstrated ability to lead and innovate.
“Brian brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to student success,” said Board President Nick Hacker in a statement. “His understanding of North Dakota’s higher education landscape, combined with his proven leadership skills, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Bismarck State College into its next chapter.”
What Kalk’s Leadership Could Mean for Bismarck State
Bismarck State College plays a critical role in providing accessible and affordable education to students in western North Dakota. The college offers a wide range of programs, including associate degrees, certificate programs, and bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields. Kalk’s appointment is expected to build on these strengths, with a particular focus on expanding online learning opportunities and strengthening partnerships with local employers. The college is also actively involved in workforce development initiatives, providing training and retraining programs to help workers adapt to changing job market conditions.
One key area of focus for Kalk will likely be addressing the challenges of student affordability and access. Rising tuition costs and student loan debt are major concerns for students across the country, and Bismarck State College is no exception. Kalk has previously spoken about the importance of finding innovative ways to make college more affordable, such as expanding financial aid opportunities and offering more flexible payment plans. He also emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive campus environment for all students.
Stakeholders in the Bismarck community have expressed optimism about Kalk’s appointment. The Bismarck-Burleigh Public Library, a frequent partner with Bismarck State on community education initiatives, released a statement welcoming Kalk and expressing a desire to continue their collaborative efforts. Local business leaders have also voiced support, citing Kalk’s experience in aligning education with workforce needs.
The North Dakota University System is currently finalizing the details of Kalk’s contract, which will be presented to the Board of Higher Education for approval at its next meeting in May. Further information about the transition process and opportunities for community input will be announced in the coming weeks. Those interested in staying updated on the latest developments can visit the Bismarck State College website.
As Brian Kalk prepares to return to Bismarck State College, the focus shifts to the implementation of his vision for the institution. The coming months will be crucial as he works to build relationships with faculty, staff, students, and community partners, and to chart a course for the college’s future. The next scheduled action is the Board of Higher Education’s approval of Kalk’s contract in May.
Do you have thoughts on the future of Bismarck State College? Share your comments below, and feel free to share this article with your network.
