NKU Introduces Next University President

By Mike Perleberg Dr. Ashish Vaidya has been named the sixth president of Northern Kentucky University. Photo provided. (Highland Heights, Ky.) - Northern Kentucky University has named its next president. Dr. Ashish Vaidya will assume the role of president on July 1, 2018. He was chosen after an eight-month search by a presidential search and selection committee. “The momentum at NKU right now is truly amazing. It’s what first caught my attention, and I continue to be impressed the more people I meet. As I learned about the university, its history and its role in regional stewardship, it fits well with what I was looking for. I’m honored to serve as NKU’s sixth president and looking forward to the adventure that lies ahead,” Vaidya said at his introduction held on-campus Thursday. Vaidya will be NKU’s 6th president, replacing former president Geoffrey Mearns, who left to become president of Ball State University earlier this year. He is currently serving as the interim president at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. He also previously worked in the California State University system. Vaidya has a focus on regional engagement and economic development. “We knew what we wanted in our next leader. Someone who reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of NKU, and I feel confident that Ashish is that person. In my conversations with him, it’s clear he will be a dynamic leader who will champion our causes and build on our strong foundation,” said Rich Boehne, NKU Board of Regents’ chair. Gerard St. Amand will continue to serve as interim president until Vaidya officially starts the job next year.