Ten candidates have thrown their hats in the ring for a seat on the North Dakota Board of Higher Education, with the position set to open on July 1. The diverse pool of applicants includes a middle/high school music and math teacher, a chief nursing officer, a farmer, and a director of food sovereignty, among others.
The current board vice chair, John Warford, will not be seeking a second term, paving the way for a new member to join the ranks. Board members have the opportunity to serve two consecutive four-year terms, making this a significant decision for the governor who will ultimately appoint the new member.
A nominating committee, led by State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler, will be meeting on Wednesday, May 8, to review the applications and recommend finalists to Governor Doug Burgum. This process ensures that the most qualified and suitable candidate is selected to fill the upcoming vacancy.
With such a diverse range of candidates vying for the position, the decision-making process is sure to be a challenging one. Each applicant brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, making it a tough choice for the nominating committee and ultimately the governor. Stay tuned for updates on this important decision that will impact higher education in North Dakota.