Jessie PeriusJessie Perius, MBA

Instructor, Business, CC and COB

Although Jessie Perius began her teaching career at MSU Billings in 2016, her connection to the university is rooted in years of experience and dedication. An alumna of the university, Jessie graduated with her bachelor’s degree in 2012 before taking a position as a research associate in the Center for Applied Economic Research at MSUB. After working elsewhere for a few years, Jessie felt her heart was still at MSU Billings and returned as a part-time instructor.

Following her first semester of teaching, she was awarded a Faculty Excellence Award for Part-Time Faculty and has now been selected as the recipient for the Excellence Award for Non-Tenured Faculty.

“Because of her experience, she can identify with students and faculty,” says a colleague. Students who take classes from Jessie comment on her energetic, positive attitude, as well as her engaging projects that foster real-life experiences. For example, in her Sales & Sales Management course, students are required to combat “sales call anxiety” by cold-calling alumni members to solicit pledges for student scholarships.

Perius is dedicated to both City College and the College of Business, teaching courses and assisting students. She is currently working to help facilitate the transition between the colleges by encouraging students with associate degrees to obtain their bachelor’s degrees through the COB. She also advises these students and serves as the “bridge” of information for students that need stability or a friendly face.

“The relationship between the two colleges is stronger now due to Mrs. Perius and her ability to build organizational trust,” her colleague shares.

Her efforts do not stop there; Perius is currently on track to complete her doctoral degree in marketing by June 2021. A true testament to her personal and professional progress, she balances class work with teaching, volunteering for campus events, conducting sponsored research, publishing work with her colleagues, and serving her community.

Perius’ connection to MSUB began as a student, and has evolved into a daily heartfelt commitment through her teaching, service, scholarship, and community relations activities.