September 11, 2012

 

Contacts:

Dr. Stacy Klippenstein, Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs, 657-2307
Dan Carter, University Relations, 657-2269

 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — Tammi Watson, a Montana State University Billings employee with an extensive track record in student advising, recruitment and academic affairs, has been hired as the Director of New Student and Retention Services.  She begins her new duties on Sept. 24.

 

Tammi Watson

The director is responsible for managing all recruitment and retention functions of the university and works collaboratively with constituents in student affairs as well as in two-year, four-year and graduate academic areas in creating annual strategic enrollment goals. 

 

Watson has been with MSU Billings since 1994.  She spent 10 years at the University Campus, first as an admissions counselor and then as an academic advisor.  While working as an academic advisor, she earned her Master of Science degree in Public Relations in 2002.  She moved to the College of Technology (now City College at MSU Billings) in 2004, and served in the Student Affairs division both as an academic advisor and director of student services.  From there, she transitioned into Academic Affairs and has served as assistant/associate dean at City College for the past 3 ½ years.

 

“Moving into this role brings things ‘full circle’ for me,” Watson said. “I am very excited to have the opportunity to return to the areas where I began my career bringing with me years of experience in both Student Affairs and Academic Affairs.   Although I have been at MSU Billings many years, I believe I can bring a fresh perspective to this position.”

 

Dr. Stacy Klippenstein, the vice chancellor for student affairs at MSU Billings, said Watson will have a key role in the future of the university.

 

“I am happy Tammi has accepted this very important position,” Klippenstein said. “Her background in Student Affairs, City College administration and Academic Affairs all make her a perfect fit for this newly re-structured director position. With a renewed focus on strategic enrollment management planning, the university can utilize the strengths Tammi brings to the table to accomplish goals.

 

“I would like to offer a special thanks to the New Student and Retention Services staff for their continued support and dedication to serving all new students,” Klippenstein added. “A special thanks goes to Julie Hrubes for taking on added responsibilities after Shelly Andersen, former director of new student services, resigned from the director position last year.”