Charles Nies, PhD, is the 10th chancellor of the University of Minnesota Duluth.
Nies joined the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2024, bringing over 25 years of experience in higher education. During his time at UMD, he has co-led the University of Minnesota’s statewide strategic roadmap committee and led the Duluth campus through collaborative visioning to elevate the work of faculty, staff, and students. He also led an initiative, in partnership with area schools, colleges, and community leaders, to create the Duluth Promise, which provides clear pathways to careers that meet local workforce needs. Nies came to Duluth after serving as vice chancellor for student affairs at the University of California, Merced. One of ten campuses in the University of California system, UC Merced was formed in 2005 and became the youngest university in the nation to earn the Carnegie R2 designation.
Prior to his work at UC Merced, he served as an assistant dean of an interdisciplinary school at Miami University in Ohio and a program director for a minor in leadership studies at Washington State University. As an instructor, he taught undergraduate and graduate courses in leadership theory, organizational theory and student development.
Nies holds two degrees from Washington State University—a doctorate in education administration and leadership and a master’s in counseling psychology. He received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. He grew up in Hutchinson, Minnesota.
“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."
- Charles Nies, PhD, chancellor, University of Minnesota Duluth