Shinn Named University of Montana’s 20th President

MISSOULA – The Montana Board of Regents has selected Dr. Jeremiah Shinn to serve as the next president of the University of Montana.

Shinn’s selection follows a national search that drew more than 70 accomplished applicants from across the country.

“I am honored to be named the 20th president of the University of Montana and eager to get started,” said Shinn. “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. Shinn’s on-campus visit affirmed our belief that he is an exceptional candidate who, throughout the search process, repeatedly rose to the top of an outstanding and diverse field of applicants,” said Montana Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian. “His demonstrated leadership, commitment to student success and collaborative spirit make him uniquely suited to lead the University of Montana.”

The search process – led by Christian with the support of a presidential search advisory work group and the national firm AGB Search – was both expedited and comprehensive, reflecting UM’s commitment to maintaining momentum while securing a visionary leader aligned with the University’s values, culture and strategic direction.

Shinn emerged as the clear and unanimous recommendation to the Board of Regents after rigorous review, intensive vetting and a well-received on-campus visit that affirmed his exceptional fit for the role.

“Dr. Shinn brings not only experience and insight, but also a clear respect for the University of Montana’s role in the life of our state,” said Board of Regents Chair Todd Buchanan. “His approachable leadership style and clear vision for supporting student success resonated throughout his visit, and we’re excited to welcome him to the University of Montana.”

Shinn currently serves as interim president of Boise State University, where he has led initiatives to enhance student engagement, strengthen campus partnerships and expand access to educational opportunities. Christian said his background reflects a career dedicated to fostering student-centered leadership and institutional excellence.

Prior to serving as interim president, Shinn was vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Boise State University. He also served as vice president for student affairs at Louisiana State University.

Shinn earned a Ph.D. in educational leadership from Eastern Michigan University, a Master of Arts in higher education from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Science from Arkansas Tech University.

Shinn will begin his presidency at UM on July 1.

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Contact: Galen Hollenbaugh, OCHE deputy commissioner of higher education for government relations and communications, 406-449-9167, ghollenbaugh@montana.edu; Dave Kuntz, UM director of strategic communications, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.