Nov. 10, 2025:
The South Dakota Board of Regents is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan D. LaFave, D.M.A., as the next President of Northern State University (NSU) in Aberdeen, beginning January 2026.
Dr. LaFave returns to his alma mater and longtime institution after seven years as President of Valley City State University (VCSU) in North Dakota, during which he oversaw a time of growth, progress, and strategic collaborations. Prior to his presidency at VCSU, he spent nearly three decades at Northern State University, from Instructor to Professor of Music, Department Chair, Associate Dean, Dean of the School of Fine Arts, and Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
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 brings the combination of deep institutional knowledge of Northern State University, a proven leadership record in a university presidency, and a clear vision for aligning higher education with community needs,” said Board President Tim Rave. “We are confident that he will guide NSU towards a vibrant future where students succeed, the campus community is engaged, and the region benefits. We’re grateful for his willingness to come home and serve.”
The South Dakota Board of Regents and Northern State University look forward to working with Dr. LaFave to ensure a smooth transition and to support his vision for the university’s future.
“I am excited to return to NSU and to the Aberdeen community. I am committed to honoring NSU’s legacy while guiding it toward a future of continued growth, innovation, partnerships, and student success,” said Dr. LaFave. “I am grateful for this opportunity and appreciative of the South Dakota Board of Regents. I look forward to strengthening the university’s relationships with the community and the region as we continue to address workforce needs.”
Dr. LaFave’s appointment follows an extensive national search process conducted in partnership with the Regents, the NSU search committee, campus stakeholders, and community members.
Nov. 3, 2025:
The South Dakota Board of Regents announces four finalists for the President position at Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD. The selected finalists will visit the university on November 5-6. During their visit, they will meet with area leaders, faculty, staff, and students, giving the university community an opportunity to learn about each candidate’s vision and leadership style. On Thursday, November 6, 2025, the Board of Regents is scheduled to meet with each finalist and representatives from the search committee who represent the campus constituencies. These discussions aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of each candidate’s qualifications and vision for the institution.
Dr. Amy Clark:
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Dr. Amy Clark most recently served as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Nebraska Methodist College (NMC), a leadership role she held from 2018 to October 2025. Previously, she served as Dean of Health Professions at NMC from 2013 to 2015. Dr. Clark has also held roles as a clinical researcher at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and as a faculty member at Nebraska Wesleyan University and Clarkson College. She earned her doctoral degree in sociology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a master’s degree in social work from the University of Nebraska–Omaha, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Nebraska Wesleyan University.
Dr. Alan LaFave:
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Dr. Alan LaFave has served as President at Valley City State University in Valley City, North Dakota, since 2018. Previously, he served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Northern State University, where he spent most of his career advancing through the faculty ranks from instructor to full professor in the music department. He also served as the Chair of the Music Department, Associate Dean, and Dean of the School of Fine Arts. An accomplished musician, Dr. LaFave, holds doctoral and master’s degrees in clarinet performance from Arizona State University and has a bachelor’s degree in music education from Northern State University.
Dr. Erin Fouberg
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Dr. Erin Fouberg currently serves as the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Director of Graduate Studies at Northern State University, roles she has held since 2019. She has been part of Northern State University since 2007, holding various faculty positions and serving as the Honors Program Director for 10 years. Before her time at Northern, she was a faculty member at the University of Mary Washington in Virginia for six years. Dr. Fouberg earned her doctoral and master’s degrees in geography from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and obtained her bachelor’s degree in foreign service from Georgetown University.
Dr. Matt Seimears
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Dr. Matt Seimears has served as President of Lower Columbia College in Longview, Washington, since 2024. Before his current role, he served as Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Eastern Oregon University and as the dean of the College of Education at the same institution. He also held roles as a faculty member and department chair at Emporia State University and spent time teaching at the high school, middle school, and elementary levels early in his career. Dr. Seimears holds a doctoral degree in science education from Kansas State University, a master’s degree in sports administration from Wichita State University, and bachelor’s degrees from both Pittsburg State University and Newman University.
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