The South Dakota Board of Regents has selected three finalists for the President position at Dakota State University in Madison. The three candidates are Dr. John Ballard, Dr. Gillian Wilson, and Dr. Ashley Podhradsky.
Dr. John R. Ballard is President of the National Intelligence University, leading a multi-campus institution that offers workforce-ready certificates and technology-focused degrees. He serves as the university’s chief ambassador to federal and state officials, industry representatives, and the security sector. He has received awards such as the Director of National Intelligence Distinguished Service Award and military honors, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.
Dr. Ashley Podhradsky is Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Dakota State University, where she has advanced research, partnerships, and visibility in cybersecurity and applied technology. A nationally recognized leader in cybersecurity and innovation, she has positioned Dakota State as a hub for applied research, workforce development, and industry collaboration. Her teams have secured over $26.5 million in grants from organizations such as the National Security Agency, the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Small Business Administration, Google, and others. She has helped develop programs that create opportunities for students and strengthen the talent pipeline, including co-founding CybHER®, which has engaged thousands in cyber education. Her leadership has generated nearly $2 million in philanthropic support.
Dr. Gillian Wilson is Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Economic Development and Professor of Physics at the University of California, Merced. She leads the university’s research enterprise, strengthens partnerships with industry, federal agencies, and national laboratories, and advances the translation of innovation into economic opportunity.
A nationally recognized physicist, her research focuses on cosmology and galaxy evolution.
The selected finalists will visit the university March 25th-26th. During their visit, they will meet with area leaders, faculty, staff, and students, giving the university community an opportunity to learn about each candidate’s vision and leadership style.
