Dr. Ashley Podhradsky has spent years helping build momentum at Dakota State University — and this spring, that work put her in position to lead it.
The Flandreau native was named a finalist in the university’s presidential search, recognizing both her leadership and the impact she’s had on the small regional campus that continues to grow on a national stage.
The South Dakota Board of Regents ultimately selected Dr. John R. Ballard as the university’s next president, but Podhradsky’s place among the final candidates highlights how far her work — and her roots — have taken her.
Podhradskyis the former Ashley Schmidt who graduated from Flandreau High School in 2002.
“I came to DSU in 2002 as a student, so this university has truly been a part of my life for a long time,” Podhradsky said.
“It helped shape who I am, and over the years I have been fortunate to grow with it professionally as well. That history gives me a deep sense of pride in DSU and a real investment in where it goes next.”
Podhradsky currently serves as vice president for research and economic development at DSU, where she has helped position the university as a leader in cybersecurity, applied research and workforce development. Under her leadership, teams have secured more than $26 million in grant funding and built programs that connect students with real-world opportunities while supporting industry and government partners.
Being named a finalist, she said, was both an honor and a responsibility.
“I put my name forward because I believe in DSU, in its people, and in its potential,” she said.
“I have spent years helping build programs, partnerships, and momentum that are making a difference on campus and across the state, and I felt a responsibility to step forward and serve in that way if given the opportunity.”
That work includes initiatives like the university’s Digital Forensics Lab, which supports law enforcement and public safety efforts; community cybersecurity programs such as Project Boundary Fence and SecureSD; and the Google Cybersecurity Clinic, which Podhradsky said is creating new ways for students to gain hands-on experience while helping organizations improve their security posture. Additional efforts like CybHER and K-8 outreach programs are expanding access to STEM education across South Dakota.
“We are solving real problems, building talent, and serving our state in very tangible ways,” she said. “All of this work reflects what excites me most about DSU. We are not just educating students.”
The Board of Regents announced Ballard, currently president of the National Intelligence University in Washington, D.C., as the next DSU president. He is set to begin his role in June, succeeding José-Marie Griffiths, who will transition to serve as chancellor.
As the university prepares for new leadership, Podhradsky remains focused on continuing the work she’s helped build.
“As for what is ahead, I remain very focused on meaningful leadership and impact,” she said. “Whether in my current role or through future leadership opportunities, I want my work to continue moving DSU and South Dakota forward.”
More than anything, she added, she is grateful — grateful for the opportunities she’s had, for the people who have supported her, and for the role her hometown has played in her journey.
“Flandreau will always be an important part of my story, and that support means a great deal to me.”