North Dakota State University President Interviews at Iowa State University

North Dakota State University President David Cook. (Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch via the North Dakota Monitor)

(North Dakota Monitor) – Iowa State University presidential hopeful David Cook said that when he arrived on campus the previous day, he was “feeling awesome about Iowa State.” Less than 24 hours later, during his presentation to ISU students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members, Cook said he had learned many new things and felt even better.

Cook, president of North Dakota State University and an Iowa State University alum, came back to Ames for interviews and a public forum as he vies for the university presidency. He was the second candidate this week to present his case to the ISU community, with Cornell University agriculture college dean Benjamin Houlton having participated in his own forum.

Two other finalists dropped out before the campus visits were scheduled and their names were not disclosed.

As an Ames native and ISU graduate, Cook said it’s been wonderful to be back. Like Houlton, Cook said ISU is doing amazing things in its capacity as a land-grant institution and as a driver of education, research and outreach. When looking at ISU graduation rates and growing enrollment, Cook said “there’s a lot of good there.”