Dakota State University has named Lacey Ellsworth as its new vice president for human resources following a national search.

Ellsworth comes to DSU from Brookings Health System, where she has served as human resources director since 2023, leading HR initiatives for approximately 550 employees.

At DSU, Ellsworth will oversee talent recruitment and retention, workforce planning, employee relations and engagement, regulatory compliance and policy development. She will also serve as a member of President John Ballard’s Cabinet and represent DSU on the South Dakota Board of Regents Human Resources Council.

DSU President John Ballard says Ellsworth brings strategic leadership and a strong focus on employee development and workplace culture.

Ellsworth says she is excited to join DSU and looks forward to working with faculty, staff and university leadership to build on the university’s strengths and create an environment where employees feel supported and valued.

She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from the University of South Dakota and has more than a decade of experience in human resources and organizational development.