College of Business names Yongtao (David) Hong chair of the Department of Accounting and Information Systems

The NDSU College of Business has named Yongtao (David) Hong chair of the Department of Accounting and Information Systems after serving in the role on an interim basis for the past year.

“We look forward to the continued leadership of Dr. Hong as chair of the Department of Accounting and Information Systems,” said Kathryn Birkeland, Ronald and Kaye Olson Dean of the College of Business. “This is an exciting time for the field, and we are confident in his ability to help position the department for continued innovation and student success.”

Hong, who has been part of the NDSU community for more than 16 years, said he is honored to continue leading a department known for its exceptional faculty, highly engaged students and strong relationships with employers and alumni.

"I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Department of Accounting and Information Systems," Hong said. "NDSU has been my academic home for more than 16 years, and I care deeply about our students, faculty, staff, alumni and programs."

Looking ahead, Hong’s priorities for the department include strengthening enrollment, supporting faculty success and continuing to innovate the department’s curriculum by integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and business analytics.

“Professions are being transformed by technology, creating exciting opportunities for our students," Hong said. "NDSU is well positioned to prepare students for this environment because we combine technical expertise with a strong business foundation."

The Department of Accounting and Information Systems prepares students for careers through its accounting, management information systems, Master of Accountancy and Master of Science in Business Analytics programs. The department has earned national recognition for student success, including six consecutive years of 100% job placement for accounting graduates and a recent No. 12 national ranking among mid-sized schools for first-time CPA examination pass rates. Strong partnerships with employers throughout the region also provide students with internships, experiential learning opportunities and direct connections to industry professionals.

Hong also plans to continue strengthening connections between students and industry through internships, employer engagement and experiential learning opportunities, ensuring graduates are well prepared for successful careers.

“We are proud of our tradition of excellence, but we are equally excited about the future and the opportunities ahead for our students, faculty and programs,” Hong said. “Ultimately, I want every student to leave NDSU well prepared for a successful and meaningful career.”