Dr. Shari R. Veil brings more than two decades of experience in academic leadership, research, and student success to her role as Provost and Chief Academic Officer at North Dakota State University. She joined NDSU from the University of Nebraska, where she served as Dean of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications and led transformative initiatives in strategic planning, faculty development, fundraising, and experiential learning. Under her leadership, the college more than doubled its endowment, exceeded campaign goals ahead of schedule, and significantly expanded hands-on learning opportunities through innovative programs and partnerships.

An internationally recognized scholar in risk and crisis communication, she served as a research fellow with the National Strategic Research Institute, a Department of Defense–designated University Affiliated Research Center, and collaborated extensively with federal agencies, private foundations, and military organizations to advance research and training in high-stakes communication. Her work has been supported by the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of Homeland Security. She has served on expert working groups for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration, contributing to national efforts addressing public safety and national security challenges.

Dr. Veil has also held senior academic leadership roles at the University of Kentucky, where she served as Associate Dean for Undergraduate Affairs, Chair of the Department of Communication, and Director of the Risk Sciences Division, and at the University of Oklahoma, where she directed the Center for Risk and Crisis Management. Across these roles, she advanced student success initiatives, interdisciplinary research, enrollment growth, and new academic programs.

Her appointment marks a homecoming to North Dakota. Dr. Veil earned her Ph.D. in Communication from North Dakota State University, following completion of her MBA and undergraduate degrees at the University of Mary. As Provost, she is focused on guiding NDSU toward new horizons by advancing academic excellence, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities that empower students and faculty to thrive in a rapidly changing world.