University Communications and Marketing

May 13, 2014

Contacts:

Aaron Clingingsmith, Director University Relations, 657-2243 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — After conducting a nationwide search, President Waded Cruzado introduced Dr. Mark Nook as the new chancellor of Montana State University Billings earlier today. Nook will succeed Dr. Rolf Groseth who announced his retirement in January.

“Dr. Nook inherits one of the strongest institutions in our system,” commented President Cruzado.  “He will have an opportunity to build upon a solid institutional and community foundation.  His enthusiastic leadership-style is an ideal fit for the Billings campus.” 

Nook said he felt humbled and honored by the appointment and was eager to become a part of the Montana State University family.

“I feel fortunate that Dr. Cruzado has entrusted me to lead this storied university,” Nook said. “Everyone we met during the search process greatly impressed my wife, Cheryl, and me.  There is a deep commitment to helping each student reach her or his educational, professional and personal life goals.  I look forward to addressing the challenges ahead and strengthening our institution within Billings and our region.”

Nook, 56, serves as the senior vice president for academic and student affairs for the University of Wisconsin system.  He was previously the interim chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point from August 2009 to July 2010.  Nook also served two separate stints as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs during his tenure at Stevens Point.  From 1990 until 2007 Dr. Nook worked at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minn. 

Nook received his bachelor’s in physics and mathematics from Southwest Minnesota State University, a master’s in astrophysics from Iowa State University, and a doctorate in astronomy from UW-Madison.

Bruce Brumley, academic senate chair at MSU Billings and search committee member, said the search process yielded a strong field of candidates to lead MSU Billings.

“The faculty are excited that Dr. Nook will be our leader for years to come,” said Brumley. “I am confident he will help our campus and the system reach new heights.”

Vice president for administration and finance on the MSU campus, Terry Leist, chaired the 18-member search committee.

“I am proud of the work the committee performed to bring the best candidates forward during the process,” remarked Leist. 

Sarah Brockel, director of MSUB alumni relations, knew during his visit that Dr. Nook was the right fit for the campus, community, students and alumni.

“MSUB alumni will thoroughly enjoy working with Mark,” commented Brockel.  “He understands the value in being a Yellowjacket and we are excited to help him tout our institution.”

He and his wife, Cheryl, enjoy outdoor activities and attending university cultural and athletic events.  Cheryl and Mark have three adult children and one grandchild.

Nook’s appointment will be on the Board of Regents agenda next week in Havre.  The board will vote on Friday, May 23.  Upon approval, Dr. Nook will assume his role as chancellor on July 1, 2014.

Located in Montana's largest city, MSU Billings is a comprehensive regional university with an enrollment of near 5,000 students. It has more than 80 academic programs in five colleges that provide certificate, two-year, four-year and master's degree education.

It is one of four universities in the MSU system that serves students and the state through campuses in Bozeman, Billings, Havre and Great Falls.

Contact: Aaron Clingingsmith, MSU Billings, University Relations, 406-657-2243
Terry Leist, MSU, Search Chair and VP Administration & Finance, 406-994-4361

For a complete bio visit www.msubillings.edu/chancellor