Earlier today, the Minnesota State Board of Trustees selected Dr. Devinder Malhotra as the next Chancellor. Dr. Malhotra has shown over the previous year as Interim Chancellor that he is passionate about the Minnesota State commitment to providing access to exceptional higher education for all Minnesotans. He is excited to support the powerful work faculty and staff are doing at every Minnesota State college and university to serve our communities and help women and men all across the state succeed both in college and beyond.
Dr. Malhotra has previously served as interim president of Metropolitan State University and provost and vice president of academic affairs at St. Cloud State University.
Michael Vekich, chair of the Board of Trustees said, “He [Devinder] has deepened the relationship between Minnesota State and both the bargaining units and student associations. He has encouraged open communication between the Board and our presidents. He has brought a laser focus to student success, and he has reaffirmed our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by fostering a culture in which we can have difficult conversations about critical issues.”
The IFO applauds today’s decision. Over the past several months, Dr. Malhotra has built trust-based relationships with stakeholders throughout the system. Those relationships will serve as a solid foundation for meaningful progress to ensure the long-term success of our campuses.
Where some see significant challenges, our organization sees significant opportunities. Every day, Minnesota State campuses serve as a place where students realize their potential and Dr. Malhotra’s leadership will allow us to work together to enhance student success.
We have sincere gratitude for the leaders on the Board of Trustees for demonstrating the courage to make a tough decision. We believe, without reservation, that they did the right thing and stand ready and willing to move forward.