Dr. Andrew Armacost, President | University of North Dakota
Dr. Andrew Armacost, President | University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota (UND) recently appointed Maj. Gen. Rodney Lewis, a former commander at Grand Forks Air Force Base, as its new national security consultant. This appointment is part of UND's ongoing efforts to enhance its national security research development.
Lewis, a UND alumnus with a doctoral degree in higher education, previously commanded the 319th Reconnaissance Wing from 2015 to 2017. In his new role, he aims to leverage his experience in strategy and defense budget planning at the Pentagon to benefit UND. "When I was here before, I felt like UND was home — because it was," he said while reflecting on his connection to the university and community.
Highlighting the potential impacts of his work, Lewis stated, "The ecosystem in D.C. is rapidly changing, but I look at change as opportunity." He emphasizes the bipartisan nature of national security, stating, "Regardless of which side of the aisle you’re on, national security is paramount."
During a recent campus visit, Lewis engaged with university leaders, including Scott Snyder, vice president of Research & Economic Development, and Ryan Adams, interim dean of the College of Engineering & Mines, for discussions on topics such as counter UAS and satellite technology. Snyder expressed confidence in Lewis's contributions, noting, "His experience, strategic thinking, connections and passion for UND can really help move us forward."
Examples of UND's impact in national security include its pioneering UAS degree and collaborations with the Federal Aviation Administration and Homeland Security. Robert Kraus, dean of the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, noted UND's leading role in the FAA's Assure Program and its recent involvement with the High Altitude Platform Stations alliance.
Further, Brad Rundquist, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, remarked on UND's growing research profile and its designation as a Carnegie R1 Institution, attributing such advancements in part to the university's commitment to national security initiatives.
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