The University of Montana Western has appointed Dr. Estee Aiken as interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs, effective Dec. 27, 2025, university officials announced.
Aiken will succeed Dr. Brian Elliott, who has served in the interim role for the past seven months. University leaders thanked Elliott for his service and leadership during a transitional period for the campus.
“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Elliott for his dedication and steady leadership while serving in this role,” Chancellor Michael Reid said in a statement. “His service has been invaluable to our campus community.”
Reid said Aiken will help guide Montana Western as it continues work toward developing its next strategic plan. Aiken currently serves as the university’s dean of strategic initiatives and brings experience in academic leadership, statewide education initiatives, and grant development.
University officials said a national search for a permanent provost will begin after a new chancellor is in place.
Elliott holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science and English from Muskingum University, as well as a master’s degree and doctorate in English from Ohio University. His research and teaching interests include early American literature, British and transatlantic Romanticism, satire, mythology, and folklore. His current research examines the role of lying and deception in early American novels.
At Montana Western, Elliott teaches courses in graphic novels, American literature, fantasy and science fiction, and composition.
By DNU Staff