Provost only finalist to replace UM president

Provost only finalist to replace UM president

MISSOULA (AP) — University of Montana officials say Provost Royce Engstrom is the only finalist to replace outgoing president George Dennison, who announced his retirement in January after 20 years on the job.

The UM presidential search committee intended to name three finalists, but two withdrew their names from consideration. One took another job and the other recently withdrew because he said the job was not in his best interest.

But being the only finalist does not mean Engstrom will automatically become the next president of UM.

The university plans to host an on-campus interview — just as it would have done for any finalist — in which students, faculty and staff will get to ask Engstrom questions. He also will travel to UM's affiliated campuses in Dillon, Butte and Helena.

The search committee will then make a recommendation to Commissioner of Higher Education Sheila Stearns based on the comments. Stearns in turn will make a recommendation to the Montana Board of Regents.

MISSOULA (AP) — University of Montana officials say Provost Royce Engstrom is the only finalist to replace outgoing president George Dennison, who announced his retirement in January after 20 years on the job.

The UM presidential search committee intended to name three finalists, but two withdrew their names from consideration. One took another job and the other recently withdrew because he said the job was not in his best interest.

But being the only finalist does not mean Engstrom will automatically become the next president of UM.

The university plans to host an on-campus interview — just as it would have done for any finalist — in which students, faculty and staff will get to ask Engstrom questions. He also will travel to UM's affiliated campuses in Dillon, Butte and Helena.

The search committee will then make a recommendation to Commissioner of Higher Education Sheila Stearns based on the comments. Stearns in turn will make a recommendation to the Montana Board of Regents.