AMES, Iowa — David Cook has been named the 17th president of Iowa State University, the Iowa Board of Regents announced. Cook, currently serving as president of North Dakota State University, will begin his new role on March 1, 2026.

Cook, an Iowa State alumnus, succeeds Wendy Wintersteen, who is retiring after nine years in the position. Since 2022, Cook has led North Dakota State University, where he implemented a strategic plan that reversed a decade of declining enrollment and increased graduation rates by 12%.

During his tenure at North Dakota State, Cook also secured significant research funding, including a National Science Foundation grant in agricultural technology with potential federal investment of $160 million. He has been a key figure in fundraising efforts for initiatives

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