University Communications and Marketing

July 17, 2014

Contacts:

Aaron Clingingsmith, University Relations, 657-2243

Montana State University Billings Chancellor Mark Nook announced Thursday the selection of Dr. Joseph Oravecz, dean of student affairs at University Nebraska Kearney, as the next vice chancellor for student affairs.  Oravecz, whose appointment is subject to Board of Regents approval, will take the helm of the student affairs division on Monday, August 25.

Oravecz succeeds Dr. Stacy Klippenstein, who left MSU Billings in January to become the president at Miles Community College in Miles City, Mont.

“Joe brings over twenty-five years of higher education experience to MSU Billings,” remarked Chancellor Nook.  “His expertise and energy will make an immediate impact on our campus as we look to graduate more students from our institution over the next several years.”

Oravecz has held the top student affairs position at UNK since 2010.  The division employed approximately 90 full-time professional staff with an annual operating state and auxiliary budget in excess of $8.3 million.  Prior to joining UNK, Oravecz served as associate vice president of student affairs at Bowling Green State University. 

Oravecz education is extensive, including a bachelor of arts degree from Gettysburg College, PA. He attained a master of arts from The Ohio State University and earned his doctorate at Florida State University.

“I am honored and excited with the opportunity to serve as the next Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs,” Oravecz said. “MSU Billings is an outstanding academic institution with outstanding students and top-notch faculty.  “I am energized by opportunities to enhance and further integrate all facets of campus and student life into the academic life of the institution while working with faculty and others to increase enrollment.”

MSU Billings started the 2013-2014 academic year with just under 5,000 students.  With the slight decline, MSU Billings still remains the third largest higher education unit in Montana.  MSU Billings was ranked as one of “Top 100 Best Western Regional Universities” in U.S. News & World Report for 2014. 

“As our chief student affairs officer, Joe is going to help us grow enrollment and enhance our ability to retain and graduate students, building on institution’s foundation of access and excellence,” said Chancellor Nook. 

PHOTO ABOVE: Dr. Joseph A. Oravecz