Jeremiah Shinn, the current interim president of Boise State University, has emerged as the finalist for the presidency of the University of Montana, concluding a search that drew more than 60 applicants. The selection marks a critical step in an expedited effort to fill the leadership void at the state’s flagship institution following the resignation of former president Seth Bodnar in January.
The Montana Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education and university officials announced that Shinn will visit the Missoula campus on Monday and Tuesday, April 6 and 7. The visit serves as the final vetting process, featuring a series of meetings with faculty, staff, and student organizations to determine if his vision aligns with the campus culture.
Clayton Christian, the Commissioner of Higher Education, described the search process as robust and noted that the advisory group identified Shinn as a natural fit for the role. According to Christian, the search committee was particularly drawn to Shinn’s student-centered approach and his desire to build upon the university’s existing successes rather than attempting to radically reshape the institution.
A career rooted in student affairs
Shinn brings a deep background in student administration, a trait that search advisors believe is essential for the current climate at the University of Montana. He was named interim president at Boise State University in April 2025, stepping into the role after the previous president departed for the University of Vermont.
Before taking the helm at Boise State, Shinn spent over a decade at the institution in various capacities. His trajectory included roles as the head of the student involvement and leadership center, assistant vice president for student life, and associate vice president for student affairs. From 2019 to 2023, he expanded his leadership experience as the vice president for student affairs at Louisiana State University.
This professional history is underpinned by a personal commitment to accessibility. In his professional profile, Shinn identifies as a first-generation college student, noting that his own educational journey altered his life’s trajectory. He has described higher education as his life’s work, stating, “I believe deeply in the transformational potential of higher education to change lives and improve communities.”
Regional expertise and strategic fit
The search committee emphasized that Shinn’s familiarity with the Rocky Mountain West was a decisive factor. Buddy Wilson, president of the Associated Students of the University of Montana and a member of the advisory group, argued that Shinn’s experience at a peer institution like Boise State provides him with a nuanced understanding of the region’s unique challenges and opportunities.
Wilson specifically highlighted Shinn’s track record in improving administrative processes, such as financial aid offices, to better serve students. “He as well comes from a student affairs background, and he’s done work that has directly made the student experience better over at Boise State, and I feel he would do the same thing here,” Wilson said.
Beyond student relations, the committee looked for a leader capable of navigating the complex political and financial landscape of a state flagship. John DeBoer, vice provost for academic affairs at UM, noted that Shinn excelled in communicating the inherent value of higher education to diverse stakeholders, including legislators, donors, and the Montana Board of Regents.
Priorities for the flagship campus
If appointed, Shinn will inherit a university where enrollment has stabilized after a period of decline, but where growth remains a primary objective. Commissioner Christian indicated that the focus would not merely be on the number of students arriving in Missoula, but on the quality of their journey through the system.
The administration’s goals include improving retention rates and ensuring students graduate on time. Christian emphasized a philosophy of meeting students where they are to ensure that the university remains a viable and supportive engine for social mobility.
Shinn’s recent tenure at Boise State has served as a trial by fire, as he led the university through significant leadership transitions and statewide budget reductions. Christian noted that Shinn’s ability to manage these crises effectively contributed to his decision to seek a permanent presidency.
University of Montana President Search Timeline
| Timeframe | Event/Status |
|---|---|
| January | President Seth Bodnar announces resignation; expedited search begins. |
| Spring 2026 | Pool of 60+ candidates vetted by advisory group. |
| April 6–7 | Finalist Jeremiah Shinn visits campus for meetings and public forum. |
| Post-Visit | Board of Regents reviews recommendation for final appointment. |
Next steps for the community
The upcoming campus visit is designed to be transparent, allowing the university community to engage directly with the finalist. On Monday, April 6, a public forum will be held at 3:30 p.m. On the third floor of the University Center, followed by a community reception at 5 p.m.
While Shinn has the support of the full advisory group, the process remains subject to final approval. Christian noted that while Shinn is the primary candidate, other applicants remain “in the wings” should the process not result in a hire.
If the Commissioner recommends Shinn’s appointment, the Board of Regents could convene to make a final decision within approximately one week. The exact start date for the new president has not yet been determined.
The university community is encouraged to attend the public forum and share their perspectives on the future of the institution. We invite you to share your thoughts on the search process in the comments below.
