Community Invited to Celebrate Inauguration of Mines 20th University President
South Dakota Mines invites the community to celebrate the inauguration of Dr. Brian Tande as the university’s 20th president.
Tande took the helm in January, succeeding Dr. Jim Rankin, who retired last summer.
The inauguration ceremony will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 3 p.m. in the King Center’s Goodell Gymnasium on the Mines campus. Following the ceremony, a celebratory concert featuring popular local band The RathCo will be held from 5-8 p.m. at the O’Harra Stadium parking lot. RSVP for the event here.
“It’s an honor to lead South Dakota Mines into its next chapter, one that is defined by innovation, groundbreaking research and a steadfast commitment to student success and industry collaboration,” Tande said. “Together, we will build on our legacy and shape a future of growth and discovery.”
Prior to his presidency, Tande served as dean of the College of Engineering and Mines at the University of North Dakota (UND), where he advanced interdisciplinary research initiatives, expanded student engagement and strengthened partnerships with industry and government. During his 17-year tenure at UND, he also served as professor and department chair in chemical engineering and as director of the Jodsaas Center for Engineering Leadership and Entrepreneurship—demonstrating a lifelong dedication to cultivating the next generation of STEM leaders.
Before entering academia, Tande built a successful career in the private sector, leading research, product development, and technical management efforts in the plastics and composites industry. His dual experience in industry and higher education informs his collaborative, forward-thinking approach to institutional leadership.
Tande holds a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from the University of Delaware and a Bachelor of Science in chemical engineering from the University of Minnesota. He and his wife, Dr. Desiree Tande, both grew up in Stanley, N.D., and are proud parents of four children.