On Thursday, the Board of Regents approved Charles Nies as the 10th chancellor of the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

He’ll start in the position on July 1, 2024. He succeeds Interim Chancellor David McMillan, who has been filling the role since Lendley Black’s retirement in 2022.

Nies will be the tenth chancellor of UMD. He is currently the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of California-Merced.

Having grown up in Hutchinson, Minnesota, Nies calls it a homecoming opportunity.

“I’m honored to be a part of this remarkable institution and to work alongside the amazing people who are advancing the mission of teaching, research, and outreach. It’s inspiring,” Nies said. “I’m grateful to the Board and Interim President Jeff Ettinger for appointing me to this incredible opportunity, and for the campus community for being so welcoming. I look forward to working together to advance the great work of UMD.”

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He has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn. His two graduate degrees are from Washington State University: a Master’s in counseling psychology and a doctorate in education administration and leadership.

McMillan will continue in the interim role through June.

“Dr. Nies brings a wealth of experience and an energy that will be an asset to UMD and our community,” Interim Chancellor McMillan said in a press release. “I’m thrilled that he’s bringing his talents to Duluth, and look forward to supporting him and this campus in a smooth and productive transition as we embark on this new chapter for this institution.”