NDSU INTERIM PROVOST finds true passion IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Margaret Fitzgerald has some advice for anyone looking for professional success: Be brave, take risks and have faith in yourself.

Fitzgerald has used that strategy to make her mark as an educator, administrator and leader. After years as a professor and dean, she was recently named interim provost at North Dakota State University.

“I love what I get to do each day at NDSU,” Fitzgerald says. “Life is more enjoyable when you find your true passion. I’m happy to have found mine in higher education.”

The role of provost is central to the functions of a university. The office of the provost is responsible for academic resources and budget, professional faculty matters, academic computing, and the university’s instructional curriculum. It oversees NDSU’s seven academic colleges, graduate school, library, institutional programs, institutional research and analysis, and accreditation.

Fitzgerald says she’s had a traditional academic career. She taught for several years at a university after earning her masters degree. She then went on to earning her doctorate, and eventually tenure as a professor. Later she advanced to administrative work. She’s been associate dean at NDSU’s College of Science and Mathematics, and most recently dean of the College of Human Sciences and Education. Fitzgerald first came to NDSU in 1988.

“In my role as dean, I’ve encountered so many different experiences. You never know what you’re going to come across on any given day. Of course, I look to policy for answers, but I also find it very important to take time to listen and hear the various perspectives to help solve the issue at hand,” Fitzgerald says. “I’ve learned that you can’t predict any given day, so it’s best to be flexible and enjoy the ride.”

Fitzgerald is a strong believer in strengths-based leadership, focusing on the positive attributes of each individual. She builds relationships by taking a genuine interest in faculty research, their passions and what drives them each as individuals.

Fitzgerald attributes much of her success to the great mentors she’s had along the way. Her family also is supportive of her work, encouraging her through each of her achievements.

In her role as interim provost, Fitzgerald is most excited to work with individuals from all areas across campus, both academic and student affairs.

“I always enjoy getting to meet new people and work with colleagues I don’t typically get to work with as often,” she says.

When not at work, Fitzgerald enjoys watching theater performances and often makes time to see a Broadway show or two each year. She also loves to spend time with family and friends at their lake house in Minnesota.