Berg appointed interim president of North Dakota State University

Thursday, January 22, 2026

The State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) today appointed Rick Berg as interim president of North Dakota State University (NDSU) beginning Feb. 9, 2026. Current NDSU President David Cook is leaving NDSU to lead his alma mater, Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. President Cook’s last day at NDSU will be Sunday, Feb. 8. He will remain available in an advisory capacity through the end of February.

SBHE Chair Kevin Black said, “We thank President Cook for his leadership at NDSU since spring of 2022, a period marked by collaboration and partnership. Berg brings extensive national‑level leadership experience along with sharp entrepreneurial and business expertise, strengthening NDSU’s ability to build and expand key relationships. As a land‑grant university founded in 1890, NDSU has long been recognized for leadership in agricultural research and innovation with strong programs in engineering, health sciences, and business that contribute to North Dakota’s workforce needs.”

Under SBHE policy, the SBHE selects an interim president based on recommendations from NDUS Commissioner Brent Sanford, who issued a Request for Letters of Interest from individuals wishing to be considered for the NDSU interim presidency. It is expected that this interim appointment will continue until the permanent president is hired, likely in late spring 2026.

Rick Berg said, “It’s an honor to serve North Dakota State University in this role. NDSU has shaped so many lives across our state, including my own, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our students, faculty, and staff during this transition. Together, we will continue advancing the mission and momentum of this great university.”

Berg brings a longstanding commitment to North Dakota and broad leadership experience that spans public service, business, and community engagement. He served for many years in the North Dakota House of Representatives and later represented the state in the U.S. House of Representatives, gaining a deep understanding of public stewardship and collaborative leadership.

Outside of public service, Berg has built a career in real estate and development. He is a founder and partner of Great States Development, Great States Construction, and Collective, and has been actively involved in economic development and civic organizations across the Fargo–Moorhead region, including the Fargo Cass County Economic Development Corporation, the North Dakota Chamber of Commerce, and United Way. He has also been a longtime supporter of NDSU, supporting student scholarships through Bison Bidders Bowl and Bison Athletics through Team Makers. A native of Hettinger, North Dakota, Berg earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from NDSU. He and his wife, Tracy, have one child. A future media availability will be scheduled and information about that event will be sent out by NDSU. 

In November, the North Dakota University System (NDUS) announced the selection of co-chairs and committee members to serve on the NDSU Presidential Search Committee. Black and NDSU Chief of Staff Jace Beehler were selected to serve as co-chairs of the committee. The Presidential Search Committee includes representatives from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members. The committee’s work will continue until a permanent president of NDSU is named.