Expect University of Montana’s New President to Focus on Students

After what education leaders are terming a rapid,"but effective" search, the University of Montana has its new President, with the Montana Board of Education approving Dr. Jeremiah Shinn to take over the school's top spot.

The Regents approved the contract with Shinn in a special meeting on Tuesday, just a week after he visited the campus, getting a final stamp of approval in the process.

Regents Chair Todd Buchanan said the search had been effective, with more than 70-applicants vying to replace Seth Bodnar, who stepped down to run for U-S Senate just weeks ago…

"U of M is growing and on a strong strategic course for success, and we did not want any vacancy and leadership to disrupt that momentum," Buchanan explained before the vote. "I reiterate that this board, the Board of Regents, directed Commissioner Christian to move efficiently toward new leadership at the University of Montana. I reiterate that this board is so confident about the student successes being presented at the University of Montana. We felt like we needed to strike fast and are excited about this process."

Commissioner of Higher Education, Clayton Christian, says the process was thorough and effective.

"That approach helped us to attract an exceptional pool of candidates. The level of interest and the quality of applicants spoke not only to the strength of the process, but to the reputation and the momentum point of the University of Montana." Christian said.

"As we evaluated candidates, Dr. Shin consistently rose to the top, he aligns closely with the qualities that we identified through that process, brings a depth of academic and administrative experience, and demonstrates a clear and consistent commitment to student success. Just as importantly, I believe he understands and reflects the value, culture, and trajectory of this institution." -Commissioner of Higher Education, Clayton Christian

Last week, Christian had also explained that some of the urgency in finding the new President was also driven by the very competitive market for university leaders right now, saying the state could have missed out if it had taken the months to find a hire that would have normally elapsed.

It's expected that Dr. Shinn will be focused on areas like maintaining the affordability of a college education. At Boise State, he helped develop a $150-million program that helped with grants and assistance.

Judicial appointment outcome expected

We should find out on Thursday whether Katie Lane will be able to overcome a heated battle over her nomination as a U.S. District Court Judge, with the Senate Judiciary Committee scheduled to take a vote on her appointment.

Senator Daines has praised Lane for her "distinguished record" and "Montana roots." But critics have questioned her qualifications, especially in the trial court.

Trail fight in Seely

Normally, Montana communities welcome the development of trails. But a new controversy is erupting in Seeley over a plan by Missoula County to spend a quarter of a million dollars in bond funds to set up some mechanized vehicle trails.

The Missoula Current reports the project is being spearheaded by the Scenic Montana Trails group, saying it will help boost tourism opportunities in the Seeley-Swan. But 16-conservation groups are signing on to a letter protesting the plan, saying it will impact the local ecosystem, and goes beyond the intended use of conservation bonds.

     Missoula County commissioners are reviewing the proposal.

Big mining news for Dillon

Dillon could become a hub for critical minerals with a business announcement this week.

Almonty Industries is announcing it's moving its global headquarters from Toronto to the Southwest Montana town.

The move follows Almonty's acquisition of the Gentung Tungsten Project, which is located about 10 miles northwest of Dillon in the Lost Creek Mining District. The project is often referred to as the Brown's Lake Project, and is part of an historic mining district that once mined tungsten for the nation's strategic reserve.

CEO Lewis Black says the shift aligns the company with U.S. defense and technology supply chains.

     With tungsten production expected to restart this year, the move may bring a significant economic boost and new high-tech jobs to Beaverhead County.

Missoula Temple begins pre-construction

A major milestone for the Missoula faith community. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced the groundbreaking date for the new Missoula, Montana, Temple. The ceremony is set for Saturday, June 6th, at the site near Lower Miller Creek Road. The 19,000-square-foot facility will be a landmark for the region, serving thousands of members in Western Montana. Construction is expected to begin immediately following the ceremony, although technically it's already underway, with contractors beginning site prep this past week.

     The church already has temples in Billings and Helena.