Engstrom stepping down as UM president

The University of Montana will be looking for a new leader.

In a surprise announcement on Thursday morning, Royce Engstrom will be stepping down as the president of the University of Montana as of Dec. 31.

Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian said in a statement that, "I asked President Engstrom to consider this transition at this time based on my belief that a change in leadership direction is the right step for UM going forward. I greatly appreciate the graciousness and care with which President Engstrom engaged in our discussion."

"On behalf of the Board of Regents and myself, I want to thank President Engstrom for his hard work and steadfast dedication to the University of Montana," Christian added. "His leadership efforts have strengthened this great university in many respects. He and his administrative team, working together with UM’s tremendous faculty, staff and students, have accomplished a lot for which all are to be commended."

Full Story: http://www.kpax.com/story/33843192/engstrom-stepping-down-as-um-president

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UM Commissioner: Engstrom resignation not solely based on enrollment short falls

Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian insists that this decision involved a number of factors, and is not solely because of enrollment declines over the last few years.

"It’s the right time for a transition and it’s the right time sort of in the logistical aspects of the university workings and so, met with the president and we’ve come to agreement that this is the right spot for a transition," Christian said.

Christian also outlined a transition plan which includes Dr. Shiela Stearns taking over in the interim while a national search is conducted.

By Don Fisher

Full Story: http://www.kpax.com/story/33848409/um-commissioner-engstrom-resignation-not-solely-based-on-enrollment-short-falls

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Interim University of Montana President Sheila Stearns bleeds silver and maroon

CHELSEA DAVIS [email protected]

http://missoulian.com/news/local/interim-university-of-montana-president-sheila-stearns-bleeds-silver-and/article_1412c8f5-34da-53e6-8a40-c74defb776ea.html

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University of Montana’s worst fears confirmed: more cuts to come http://www.matr.net/article-74456.html

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MSU’s reaction to UM President stepping down

MSU’s President Waded Cruzado sent out an email to students, faculty, staff and alumni after the University of Montana’s President Royce Engstrom stepped down this morning.

Here is the email sent out by MSU President Waded Cruzado:

By Cassie Schirm

Full Story: http://www.abcfoxmontana.com/story/33847108/msus-reaction-to-um-president-stepping-down