Dr. Alan LaFave serves as the president of Northern State University. Dr. LaFave brings extensive higher education leadership and a deep connection to Northern State University. Most recently, he served as president of Valley City State University in Valley City, North Dakota, since 2018. Prior to that role, Dr. LaFave spent the majority of his career at Northern State University, advancing through the faculty ranks from instructor to full professor in the music department. He also served as chair of the Music Department, associate dean, dean of the School of Fine Arts, and provost and vice president for academic affairs. An accomplished musician, Dr. LaFave holds doctoral and master's degrees in clarinet performance from Arizona State University and a bachelor's degree in music education from Northern State University. Dr. LaFave is the first Northern State University alumnus to serve as president of the institution.

Welcome to Northern State University.

Visitors to Northern are immediately struck by the beauty and vibrancy of our campus. An investment into modern facilities has created an ideal place to learn, live, work and achieve.

In fact, donors have invested more than $100 million the last eight years in the Jewett Regional Science Education Center; Johnson Fine Arts Center renovation; three modern suite-style residence halls; and our unparalleled Dacotah Bank Stadium and Koehler Hall of Fame Softball Field, part of the Regional Sports Complex.

Northern is recognized for high-quality student-centered education. In addition to rigorous field-specific academic programs, all students complete a liberal arts and sciences curriculum that prepares students with 21st century critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills that are equally valued in the workforce and advanced professional and graduate studies. Students are taught by faculty scholars who personalize teaching and mentoring. Experiential learning is embedded throughout the curriculum including opportunities to complete undergraduate research, internships and service learning. This high quality education is rounded out with a welcoming staff who provide exceptional student services and administrative support. 

Northern also offers a comprehensive and highly successful athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC), with a supportive fan base and game-day experience that is second to none. You will also enjoy a full college experience in an environment committed to your success in fine and performing arts, student organizations and intramurals, and by participating in a vibrant schedule of events on campus, study abroad opportunities and engaging in the wonderful community.

Northern is located on a safe campus in the welcoming community of Aberdeen, South Dakota. We're very fortunate to have an excellent relationship with businesses, organizations and individuals throughout the community and the entire region.

Experience Northern for yourself. Schedule a campus visit to explore our facilities, meet our faculty and students, and discover why Northern is an outstanding place to unleash your potential. Contact our admissions office or explore our website to learn more about becoming part of the pack!

 

Dr. Alan LaFave
President
Northern State University