Dr. Jeremiah Shinn named next University of Montana president

The Montana Board of Regents approved a contract for the interim Boise State University president to lead UM starting in July 2026.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:03am

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A bold, stylized grid of neon-colored graduation caps in the pop art silkscreen style, conceptually representing the changing of leadership at a major university.The appointment of a new university president signals a pivotal moment of transition and opportunity for the institution's future.Missoula Today

The Montana Board of Regents has officially named Dr. Jeremiah Shinn as the 20th president of the University of Montana. Shinn, who is currently serving as interim president at Boise State University, will begin his new role at UM on July 1, 2026 with an annual salary of $467,197 and a contract running through June 2029.

Why it matters

The selection of a new university president is a significant event that will shape the future direction and priorities of the institution. As the flagship public university in Montana, the University of Montana plays a crucial role in the state's higher education landscape and economic development.

The details

After evaluating more than 70 candidates from across the nation, the Montana Board of Regents chose Dr. Shinn, citing his understanding of UM's values, culture, and trajectory. Shinn previously served as vice president for student affairs at Louisiana State University before taking on the interim president role at Boise State.

  • The Montana Board of Regents approved Dr. Shinn's contract during a meeting on April 14, 2026.
  • Dr. Shinn's contract will begin on July 1, 2026 and run through June 30, 2029.

The players

Dr. Jeremiah Shinn

The 20th president of the University of Montana, who is currently serving as interim president at Boise State University.

Montana Board of Regents

The governing body responsible for overseeing Montana's public university system, including the selection of the University of Montana's president.

Clayton Christian

The Commissioner of Higher Education in Montana, who said Dr. Shinn consistently rose to the top during the evaluation process.

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What they’re saying

“I am inspired by the remarkable students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members who make UM so special, and I look forward to joining this extraordinary team to build on its strong foundation and shape a bright future together.”

— Dr. Jeremiah Shinn, Incoming University of Montana President

“As more than 70 candidates from across the nation were evaluated, Dr. Shinn consistently rose to the top.”

— Clayton Christian, Commissioner of Higher Education

What’s next

The University of Montana community will welcome Dr. Shinn as he assumes the presidency on July 1, 2026, with a focus on continuing to build on the institution's strong foundation and shaping its bright future.

The takeaway

The selection of Dr. Jeremiah Shinn as the next University of Montana president represents a significant transition for the state's flagship public university. His experience and understanding of UM's values and culture position him to lead the institution forward in the coming years.