BISMARCK – The State Board of Higher Education on Tuesday, March 31, selected Brian Kalk, a North Dakota native, as the next president of Bismarck State College. The decision follows interviews with four finalists and positions Kalk to lead the institution as it continues its evolution as a polytechnic college focused on workforce development.
Kalk currently serves as the chief research officer at the University of North Dakota’s Energy and Environmental Research Center. His background includes prior service as a public service commissioner, overseeing aspects of North Dakota’s energy sector, and a deep connection to Bismarck State College itself. His appointment signals a continued emphasis on aligning education with the needs of North Dakota’s industries, particularly in the energy field.
“BSC is positioned beautifully to continue to have a managed growth and meet the workforce needs of the state,” Kalk said following the board’s vote. He emphasized the importance of preparing students for successful careers, stating, “I think the students will always be the priority, making sure we’re taking care of our students, making sure we’re getting them the right curriculum, making sure that they’ve got a job when they finish up their time.”
A Family Connection to Bismarck State College
Kalk’s personal connection to Bismarck State College runs deep. During his interview with the board, he shared how the college provided the training that launched his father’s career as a power line technician. “So BSC has always had a special spot in my heart,” he said, expressing his desire to provide similar opportunities for current and future students. This personal anecdote underscores his commitment to the college’s mission of providing practical, career-focused education.
Extensive Experience in Energy and Academia
Kalk brings a diverse background to the presidency. He holds a doctorate in natural resource management and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from North Dakota State University, and a bachelor’s degree from Campbell University in North Carolina. He also served in the Marines. His experience extends beyond research, and academia. he previously served as a Republican member of the Public Service Commission from 2009 to 2017, gaining firsthand experience in energy regulation. The State Board of Higher Education also recently named Marshall Stewart as the new president of North Dakota State University.
Kalk’s academic experience includes teaching positions at North Dakota State University, the University of Mary, and Park University, covering subjects such as logistics, environmental policy, energy management, and organizational leadership. He also gained experience in NDSU’s Research and Technology Park, which he described as his first exposure to the academic world.
BSC’s Polytechnic Mission and Future Growth
Bismarck State College underwent a significant transformation in recent years, officially becoming a polytechnic institution in 2018 with legislative approval and additional funding secured in 2021. This shift allows the college greater flexibility in tailoring its programs to meet the evolving needs of industry. Kalk believes this flexibility is key to BSC’s success. “Talking to the companies, finding out exactly what they need, getting the right curriculum, I think, will be the right measure of success,” he told the board.
With an enrollment of 4,549 students in the fall of 2025 – a record number – Bismarck State College is the third-largest of North Dakota’s 11 colleges and universities, trailing only the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University. Board Chair Kevin Black stated, “With Brian Kalk chosen to lead Bismarck State College, the institution is poised to strengthen its role as North Dakota’s polytechnic,” adding that Kalk’s approach will foster collaboration between education and industry.
Transition and Next Steps
Kalk will succeed Doug Jensen, who departed in January 2025. Other finalists for the position included Gaby Hawat of Catalyst Partners, Rai Kathuria, former provost at Empire State University, and Dan Leingang, who has served as Bismarck State’s interim president for nearly a year.
Valley City State University is also currently conducting a search for a new president.
As Kalk prepares to assume his new role, the focus will be on strengthening Bismarck State College’s position as a vital resource for North Dakota’s workforce, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. The coming months will be crucial as he works to build partnerships with industry leaders and refine the college’s curriculum to meet future demands.
What are your thoughts on the appointment of Brian Kalk as the new president of Bismarck State College? Share your comments below and let us recognize how you think BSC can best serve the needs of North Dakota’s students and industries.
