Jeremiah Shinn Emerges as Finalist for University of Montana Presidency

Public forum highlights Shinn's experience and student-centered approach as key factors in his candidacy

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:18pm

A bold, graphic illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a university campus building in vibrant, neon-inspired colors, conceptually representing the energy and anticipation surrounding the search for a new University of Montana president.The search for a new University of Montana president highlights the institution's commitment to finding a leader who can build upon its legacy while guiding it towards a vibrant future.Missoula Today

The University of Montana is in the final stages of its search for a new president, with Jeremiah Shinn, the interim president of Boise State University, emerging as a strong candidate for the position. Shinn's experience in the Rocky Mountain West and his focus on student success have been highlighted as key strengths in his candidacy.

Why it matters

The selection of a new president is a critical moment for the University of Montana, as the institution seeks to address challenges such as enrollment growth and student retention while preserving its core values and mission. Shinn's candidacy represents an opportunity for UM to find a leader who can navigate these complex issues and guide the university towards a successful future.

The details

Jeremiah Shinn, the interim president of Boise State University, has been identified as a finalist for the University of Montana presidency. Shinn's experience in the Rocky Mountain West and his student-centered approach have been highlighted as key factors in his candidacy. Buddy Wilson, the president of the Associated Students of the University of Montana, believes that Shinn's familiarity with the region is a significant advantage, as it allows him to understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing the university. Additionally, the search process has emphasized the importance of finding a leader who can address UM's priorities, such as enrollment growth and student retention, while also preserving the institution's core values and mission.

  • The University of Montana's search for a new president is nearing its culmination.
  • Jeremiah Shinn has been identified as a strong candidate for the UM presidency.

The players

Jeremiah Shinn

The interim president of Boise State University and a finalist for the University of Montana presidency.

Buddy Wilson

The president of the Associated Students of the University of Montana, who believes Shinn's experience in the Rocky Mountain West is a significant advantage.

Clayton Christian

The Commissioner of Higher Education, who has made enrollment growth and student retention top priorities for the University of Montana.

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What they’re saying

“Jeremiah Shinn's experience in the Rocky Mountain West is a significant advantage.”

— Buddy Wilson, President of the Associated Students of the University of Montana

What’s next

The University of Montana will continue its search process, with Jeremiah Shinn's candidacy as a key focus. The final decision on the new president is expected in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The search for a new president at the University of Montana is a critical moment for the institution, as it seeks to find a leader who can address challenges such as enrollment growth and student retention while preserving the university's core values and mission. Jeremiah Shinn's candidacy represents an opportunity for UM to find a leader with the necessary experience, vision, and commitment to student success.