Valley City State president named finalist in Northern State University search

ABERDEEN, S.D. (KVRR-KWAT)–The president of Valley City State University is one of four finalists in the running to become the next president of Northern State University in Aberdeen.

Dr. Alan LaFave has served as President at Valley City State University since 2018.

He previously served as Northern State University’s provost and vice president for academic affairs.

LaFave and the other finalists will be on campus Wednesday and Thursday for interviews with the South Dakota Board of Regents.

The other finalists include:

-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.

-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.

-Dr. Matt Seimears has served as President of Lower Columbia College in Longview, Washington, since 2024.