Western ND News

Dickinson State University (DSU) is experiencing the departure of its Provost and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Huijian Dong. His tenure at DSU has been marked by significant contributions to the university's academic integrity, structure, and sustainability.

Dr. Dong held the position of Provost, serving as the institution's Chief Academic Officer. He was tasked with maintaining the integrity of academic affairs and ensuring their efficient operation. His passion for academic leadership led him to pursue a doctorate in education administration from Columbia University, which informed his effective management during his time as provost.

Throughout his tenure at DSU, Dr. Dong addressed budgetary challenges and restructured university operations. Drawing on his experience from New Jersey City University, he worked with the Academic Review Committee (ARC) to implement a strategic decision-making framework called the "3 M" Method: mission, market, and margin.

Dr. Dong emphasized alignment with DSU’s core mission when evaluating academic programs. He posed questions such as, “Why do we exist? Why are we entrusted to spend taxpayer money?” These questions ensured that financial decisions aligned with the university’s purpose and public responsibility.

Market considerations were central to Dr. Dong’s strategy for innovation. He stressed offering programs that attracted student interest while prioritizing student success in the job market by aligning academic offerings with employment opportunities.

Dr. Dong focused on financial sustainability by paying close attention to program costs and advocating for resource efficiency. “We need to spend the taxpayer’s money honestly and optimally,” he remarked.

Before Dr. Dong's arrival, DSU had an administrative structure involving a provost overseeing two deans and 11 department chairs, resulting in redundant efforts. With input from the Administration Review Committee, Dr. Dong successfully consolidated departments into four academic schools managed by deans, reducing costs and improving efficiency.

Despite challenges during restructuring, Dr. Dong remained committed to his values: “I am not a yes man. I am true to my values,” he affirmed.

Dr. Huijian Dong’s tenure was characterized by his dedication to academic excellence and institutional integrity at DSU. By focusing on mission alignment and fiscal responsibility, he laid a foundation for future growth at DSU.

“It feels good to stay in the North Dakota University System (NDUS) as a senior faculty member,” stated Dr. Dong as he transitions into sharing his knowledge in the classroom with students.