N.D. Cent. Code § 15-10-10

The state board of higher education, as soon as practicable, shall appoint, for a term of not to exceed three years, a state commissioner of higher education whose principal office must be at the state capitol. The commissioner of higher education is responsible to the board and is removable by the board for cause. The commissioner must be a graduate of some reputable college or university who by training and experience is familiar with the problems peculiar to higher education. The commissioner must be the chief executive officer of the board and shall perform such duties as must be prescribed by it.