David Cook Installed as Iowa State University President
The Ames native has officially assumed his role as the 17th president of the university.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in People
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David Cook was officially installed as the 17th president of Iowa State University during a ceremony in Ames. An Iowa State graduate and former North Dakota State University president, he has introduced a new series of strategic priorities.
Why it matters
The transition marks a new leadership era for the institution, with Cook setting ambitious growth targets to expand both the university's academic reach and its total economic influence by 2032.
The university aims for a total student population of 34,000 and annual research expenditures reaching $750 million by 2032. These goals are supported by a targeted $200 million in net new annual revenue and $900 million in graduate economic impact.
The players
David Cook
He is an Ames native, an Iowa State University graduate, and the 17th person to serve as the institution's president.
The details
Cook, who previously served as president of North Dakota State University, was selected for the post by the Board of Regents in November 2025. The installation ceremony featured the Board of Regents president and the lieutenant governor, who formally placed the presidential chain of office on the new leader.
Timeline
November 2025: Board of Regents selected David Cook as president.
2022: David Cook began his term as North Dakota State University president.
October 1, 2026: David Cook was installed as Iowa State University president.
2032: Deadline for the university to achieve its strategic expansion goals.
Market Landscape
The university's plan to reach top 20 status within the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities aligns with broader competitive trends among state-funded research centers. This leadership shift positions Iowa State to aggressively pursue growth in a highly competitive regional higher education market.
The university's plan to increase its student population to 34,000 may lead to significant shifts in campus infrastructure and local housing demand in the coming years. Students and residents can expect long-term changes to the campus environment as the institution works toward its 2032 economic milestones.
The takeaway
President Cook will now lead the effort to scale the university's research and economic footprint over the next six years. Stakeholders should watch for upcoming policy updates regarding the university's $200 million annual revenue target.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership developments in the People section.
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Should your local public university prioritize expanding enrollment and economic impact as its primary goals?
