ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University announced the retirement of Dr. Michael Wanous, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. Wanous joined Northern in July 2019 and has provided more than six years of service to the university, with oversight of academic programs, faculty development, and institutional accreditation. Wanous' retirement will be effective in December 2025.

"Dr. Wanous has been an exceptional academic leader whose commitment to academic excellence and student success has greatly benefited Northern State University," said Nichols. "We are grateful for his six years of dedicated service and wish him all the best in retirement." 

Wanous' time at Northern has been marked by significant accomplishments that strengthened the university's academic programs. He launched the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program to meet workforce needs in northeastern South Dakota and established the Northern Edge award providing $10,000 per year for student research. He also launched the Northern Academy program for high school dual credit students, which enrolled 35 students in fall 2025 with a 44 percent matriculation rate to Northern.

"It has been a privilege to serve as the chief academic officer of Northern State University," Wanous said. "Northern is a truly special place because of the incredibly talented and dedicated faculty and staff. I will miss being a small part of the amazing things that you do."

Before joining Northern, Wanous served as vice president for academic affairs at Huntington University for five years and spent 17 years at Augustana University in various leadership roles. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota, master's degree from Texas A&M University, and doctorate from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Wanous has served as chair of the board of directors of ACAD, a national professional development organization for academic leaders, and as past president of the South Dakota Academy of Science.

In retirement, Wanous looks forward to spending time with his wife, Martha, and two grandsons, while continuing to stay active and play pickleball.