USD Welcomes Nicky Gilbertson as Associate Vice President for Executive Operations
Gilbertson earned her undergraduate degree from Augustana University and her master’s degree from USD in 2000. She began her career as a certified nursing assistant and worked her way into leadership, ultimately serving as CEO of critical access hospitals.
In her new role, Gilbertson will advance campuswide strategic alignment and institutional effectiveness by coordinating enterprise‑level initiatives, integrating academic and administrative priorities, and supporting collaborative decision‑making across the university. She will also serve as a key liaison to community and government partners, strengthening USD's external relationships and supporting shared institutional goals.
"Nicky’s career has been shaped by a strong commitment to rural healthcare, leadership and the communities she serves,” said USD President Sheila K. Gestring. “With this background, she is well positioned to contribute to USD's mission and strengthen partnerships across the state. We are excited to welcome Nicky back to USD, and we look forward to her leadership in these important areas.”
For Gilbertson, the return to USD and Vermillion is more than a career change—it’s a return to the place that helped shape who she is.
“The University of South Dakota and Vermillion have played such an important role in my life. Coming back to the university and community feels like coming home,” said Gilbertson. "My years in healthcare leadership have instilled in me a passion for serving South Dakota's communities, and I am excited to continue that work at USD."
Gilbertson began her role on July 28, 2026.
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