University of Montana Welcomes New President
In a significant leadership transition, Jeremiah Shinn has been appointed as the next president of the University of Montana. The Montana Board of Regents confirmed his appointment with a unanimous vote, marking a new chapter for the institution.
The decision was made official during the board’s meeting on Tuesday, where Shinn, previously the interim president of Boise State University, was selected to lead UM starting July 1. Board Chairperson Todd Buchanan expressed confidence in Shinn’s capability to elevate the university to greater heights, citing his educational leadership background and experience in student affairs.
Buchanan stated, “The enthusiasm I personally feel about this next chapter at the University of Montana is extremely high, and we’re very excited about welcoming Dr. Shinn and his wife back into Montana.”
Shinn’s familiarity with the University of Montana stems from his prior involvement in a program review at the Missoula campus in 2025. During a recent campus visit, he expressed his admiration for the university’s community spirit.
The selection process for the new president was competitive, with over 70 applicants considered in an expedited search. The Board approved an annual salary of $467,197 for Shinn, along with deferred compensation of $76,875.
Clayton Christian, Commissioner of Higher Education, highlighted the high standards of candidates that emerged during the search, noting that Shinn “consistently rose to the top.” Christian added, “He … demonstrates a clear and consistent commitment to student success.”
The need for a swift appointment arose after former UM President Seth Bodnar resigned in January to pursue a U.S. Senate run as an independent. Commissioner Christian emphasized the importance of maintaining the university’s strategic momentum by quickly filling the leadership vacancy.
Buchanan reiterated this sentiment, stating, “U of M is growing and on a strong strategic course for success, and we did not want any vacancy in leadership to disrupt that momentum.”
Shinn received unanimous backing from shared governance leaders within the presidential search advisory group. He was the sole finalist presented for final evaluation on campus, a strategy Christian noted aligns with the evolving hiring landscape for university presidents.
Christian remarked that the rigorous and comprehensive evaluation process reinforced his recommendation for Shinn’s appointment, asserting, “I believe he understands the value, culture and trajectory of this institution.”
Regent Carter Jasper, a UM student, shared his positive interactions with Shinn, noting, “each conversation was more remarkable than the last.” Jasper concluded, “Dr. Shinn is an excellent candidate and will be an excellent leader for the University of Montana.”
