Barbara Lonbaken, dean for student wellness, announced Patricia Dirk, administrator of HCR-ManorCare, Fargo, has been named director of NDSU’s Student Health Service. Dirk, who succeeds retiring Donna Morrison, begins her new duties July 10.
Dirk provided leadership for the 131-bed skilled nursing facility, and set strategic priorities for the organization. Before joining HCR ManorCare, she was the CEO and administrator of the Hillsboro Medical Center, Hillsboro, N.D., for five years. In addition, she was guest services manager for MeritCare Health System, Fargo, for five years.
“Having successfully led as CEO and administrator of a health care organization indicates Patricia has the education and appropriate experience needed to provide administrative direction and leadership for the Student Health Service in accordance with university, Division of Student Affairs and Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care accreditation standards,” Lonbaken said, noting the NDSU Student Health Service is a full-service clinic for all enrolled students at NDSU. Dirk will supervise about 20 employees, Lonbaken said.
Dirk earned her bachelor’s degree and Master of Business Administration from the University of Mary.
NDSU is recognized as one of the nation's top 108 public and private universities by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education.