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Tande named new president of South Dakota Mines

South Dakota School of Mines & Technology

The South Dakota School of Mines has named Brian Tande as the next president of the institution.

Tande currently serves as the dean of the college of engineering and mines at the University of North Dakota.

Officials with the Board of Regents, which governs the state’s university, say Tande perfectly aligns with the university’s mission and values.

"Dr. Tande's depth of experience in academic leadership and his dedication to fostering innovation and student achievement made him the ideal choice to lead South Dakota Mines into its next chapter," said Regents chair Jeff Partridge. "We are excited to welcome him to our community and look forward to the vision and energy he will bring to the institution."

Previously, Tande served as an associate dean, department chair and director of the engineering center at UND as a tenured faculty member. He also has experience as a graduate program director and associate professor at Kansas State University.

"While I have been familiar with its strong reputation for many years, the conversations I have had with students, faculty, staff, and alumni during this process have left no doubt that South Dakota Mines is truly a unique and special place," said Dr. Tande. "I want to thank all who participated in this search and the Board of Regents for the trust they have placed in me."

Tande assumes the role January 9. He's succeeding Jim Rankin, who retired in the summer.

C.J. Keene is a Rapid City-based journalist covering the legal system, education, and culture