University of Montana to Name President Finalist on Friday

Campus visit itinerary also to be released for April 6-7 events.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:41pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a university campus scene, with blurred figures moving through a warm, golden-hued landscape of trees and buildings.The University of Montana community eagerly awaits the announcement of the finalist candidate for the institution's next president.Missoula Today

The University of Montana is set to announce the name of the finalist candidate for the university's next president on Friday. The candidate's profile and a full itinerary for their upcoming campus visit on April 6-7 will also be released, which will include an open forum and reception for the community.

Why it matters

The selection of a new university president is a critical decision that will shape the institution's future direction and priorities. This announcement is an important milestone in the search process and will generate significant interest and discussion within the campus community and broader Missoula region.

The details

According to an update from Montana Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian, the University of Montana will release the name of the finalist candidate, along with their profile, on Friday. The candidate will then visit the Missoula campus on April 6-7, with an open forum and reception scheduled as part of the itinerary to allow students, faculty, staff, and community members to engage with the prospective president.

  • The University of Montana is expected to release the name of the finalist candidate on Friday, April 2, 2026.
  • The finalist candidate will visit the Missoula campus on April 6-7, 2026.

The players

University of Montana

A public research university located in Missoula, Montana, and the flagship institution of the Montana University System.

Clayton Christian

The Commissioner of Higher Education for the state of Montana, overseeing the Montana University System.

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What’s next

The open forum and reception during the finalist's campus visit on April 6-7 will provide an opportunity for the university community to engage with the candidate and share their feedback before a final decision is made.

The takeaway

The selection of a new University of Montana president is a critical decision that will shape the institution's future direction. This announcement and upcoming campus visit represent an important step in the search process, allowing the Missoula community to learn more about the finalist and provide input before the final decision is made.