Sean Blackburn came to Northern in 2020 with 18 years of experience in the field of student affairs, most recently at the University of Wyoming in Laramie. There, he served as vice president for student affairs, previously holding the position of associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students. 

Blackburn’s past experience also includes working in various student affairs roles at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, S.C.; the University of Wisconsin-River Falls; and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Va. Throughout his career, Blackburn has worked to create and support co-curricular programs and services that advance student engagement, safety and success while fostering a diverse and inclusive community. 

He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master of education degree in student affairs administration from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. His wife, Sarah, and kids, Christopher, Reagan, and Katherine, love to camp, attend athletic events, and explore South Dakota in their free time.