Montana State University (MSU) has announced two finalists for its next president, inviting students, faculty, staff, and the public to participate in upcoming campus visits and forums.
The MSU Presidential Search Advisory Committee identified Dr. Kurt Schnier and Dr. Brock Tessman as the two finalists, each set to visit campus next week. Their visits will include open forums and community receptions, providing opportunities for engagement and discussion.
Dr. Kurt Schnier – Campus Visit: March 25-26, 2025
Dr. Schnier currently serves as Vice Chancellor for Planning and Budget and Chief Financial Officer at the University of California, Merced, where he has also been a Professor of Economics since 2014. His background includes faculty roles at the University of Rhode Island and Georgia State University.
Dr. Schnier holds a bachelor’s degree in Management Sciences from the University of California, San Diego, a master’s in Environmental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania, and a doctorate in Economics from the University of Arizona.
His open forum will take place on March 25 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in the Student Union Ballrooms, immediately followed by a community reception in the same location.
Dr. Brock Tessman – Campus Visit: March 27-28, 2025
Dr. Tessman is the President of Northern Michigan University (NMU) and has held previous academic positions at the University of Georgia and the University of Montana, where he was a Political Science Professor and Dean of the Davidson Honors College.
Dr. Tessman earned a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Brown University and both a master’s and doctorate in Political Science from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
His open forum is scheduled for March 27 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. in the Student Union Ballrooms, with a community reception immediately following.
The MSU Presidential Search Advisory Committee encourages students, faculty, and the public to attend both sessions to engage with the candidates and provide feedback.
By: DNU staff