The Iowa Board of Regents has officially selected David Cook as the next president of Iowa State University. The announcement, made Tuesday afternoon in Ames, concludes a comprehensive national search to find a successor for the retiring President Wendy Wintersteen.
Cook, who currently serves as the president of North Dakota State University, is an alumnus of Iowa State. He is set to begin his tenure on March 1, 2026, with a five-year contract that includes an annual salary of $700,000.
Key Takeaways
- David Cook, an Iowa State alumnus and current president of North Dakota State University, has been appointed the next president of Iowa State University.
- He was chosen from a final pool of two candidates and an initial group of nearly 80 applicants.
- Cook's five-year contract begins March 1, 2026, with an annual salary of $700,000.
- He will succeed President Wendy Wintersteen, who announced her retirement effective in January.
The Appointment and Cook's Background
The decision by the Board of Regents brings a familiar face back to Ames. David Cook's connection to Iowa State University is not new; he earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Speech Communication from the institution he will soon lead. This deep-rooted tie provides him with a unique perspective on the university's culture and values.
Following his undergraduate studies at Iowa State, Cook pursued advanced degrees at the University of Kansas. There, he earned both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in Organizational Communication, building an academic foundation that has supported his career in university administration.
A Return to Ames
For alumni who rise to lead their alma mater, the role often carries a special significance. Cook's return to Iowa State is not just a career move but a homecoming. His experience as a student provides an invaluable lens through which to view the challenges and opportunities facing the current student body and faculty.
His most recent role as president of North Dakota State University has given him direct experience in managing a major public research university. This leadership experience was a critical factor in the regents' decision, providing a track record of navigating the complex landscape of modern higher education.
A Rigorous Selection Process
The search for Iowa State's next leader was a thorough and competitive process. The presidential search committee began with a large pool of nearly 80 candidates from across the country, reflecting the high profile of the university.
This initial group was carefully vetted and narrowed down to eight semifinalists. From there, the committee selected two finalists for the final round of interviews and public forums. The other finalist was Benjamin Houlton, the current Dean of the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and a professor in multiple departments.
By the Numbers: The Presidential Search
- Initial Applicants: Nearly 80
- Semifinalists: 8
- Finalists: 2
- Contract Length: 5 years
- Annual Salary: $700,000
The selection of two highly qualified individuals from different institutional backgrounds underscores the committee's focus on finding a leader with a strong vision for a land-grant university. Ultimately, Cook's combination of executive experience and personal history with Iowa State proved to be the deciding factor for the Board of Regents.
Vision for Iowa State's Future
During the selection process, Cook outlined a vision centered on collaboration and partnership. He emphasized the importance of building strong relationships both within and outside the university community. His strategy involves connecting with his executive team, faculty, staff, and students to create a unified direction.
Beyond the campus, Cook plans to engage with business owners, industry leaders, and lawmakers at both the state and federal levels. He believes these external partnerships are crucial for advancing the university's mission. By fostering these connections, he aims to elevate Iowa State's work and generate new opportunities.
Cook has expressed that forming strategic partnerships will be key to helping the university break into new areas of research and education, generating greater interest and elevating ISU’s work on a national and global scale.
This focus on outreach is critical for a major research institution like Iowa State. Securing research funding, creating internship and career opportunities for students, and ensuring the university's curriculum aligns with industry needs all depend on strong external relationships. Cook's plan also includes collaborating with other universities to tackle large-scale challenges.
Transition of Leadership
The appointment of David Cook marks the beginning of a transition period for Iowa State University. Current President Wendy Wintersteen, who has served the university for decades in various roles, announced earlier this year that she would be retiring.
Her official retirement will take place in January, leaving a brief interim period before Cook officially takes office on March 1, 2026. This timeline allows for a structured handover of responsibilities and ensures institutional stability.
President Wintersteen's tenure has been marked by significant growth and numerous challenges, and her leadership has left a lasting impact on the university. The transition to a new president is a pivotal moment for any institution. The university community will be watching closely as Cook prepares to take the helm and guide Iowa State into its next chapter.
As he prepares to step into his new role, Cook faces the task of building on the university's existing strengths while navigating the evolving demands of higher education, from funding and enrollment to research innovation and student success.
