Augustana University President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin says she won't seek federal bench nomination

President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin is staying at Augustana University.

Sandlin, a former U.S. Congresswoman, made the announcement Wednesday after being sworn into the federal bar in South Dakota in February.

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"My place is at Augustana," she said in a statement. "I have indicated to the White House that I do not wish to be further considered for or appointed to the federal bench."

Sandlin could have been nominated for either U.S. attorney or a lifetime tenure as a federal judge. In either scenario, she would have left the university.

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Sandlin said her calling is in Sioux Falls at Augie, "given all that we have accomplished together, not just this past year, but over the past four years."

“There are so many things our university does, and must continue to do now more than ever, to prepare our graduates to serve and to lead; to be engaged and caring citizens who value diversity; to be strong, courageous and humble; and to share God’s love and compassion," she said in a statement.

Herseth Sandlin will be meeting with the Augustana Board of Trustees later this week to discuss progress, momentum, and new opportunities toward the goals set forth in the university’s strategic plan, Viking Bold: The Journey to 2030.