University Communications and Marketing

March 11, 2015

Contacts:
Aaron Clingingsmith, Director University Relations, Communications & Marketing, 794-7485 

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — Montana State University Billings has commenced a national search to replace Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost Mark Pagano.  Pagano was named Chancellor at the University of Washington Tacoma earlier this year.

The search committee will be chaired by Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services Terrie Iverson and Patrick Hughes from the College of Allied Health Professions.

“Dr. Pagano did an outstanding job as Provost,” commented Iverson.  “MSU Billings has a lot to offer and I have every confidence our search will yield a Provost equally as talented.”

In the interim, MSU Billings has appointed Dr. William A. Shields to serve as Provost.  He is an alumnus of Carroll College and holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh.

Chancellor Nook informed the campus of the decision in an email earlier today.

“We vetted eight candidates for the interim position and brought three to campus for interviews,” said Nook.  “After conducting a thorough interview process we knew Bill was the ideal fit for this position.”

Shields possesses over thirty-five years of experience in higher education, as a teacher, a researcher, an administrator and as a president of five institutions.  Shields served as associate vice provost at the University of Pittsburgh until 2014.  From 2005 through 2012 he served as President of the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville.

“I am excited to work with the faculty, staff and students of MSU Billings,” remarked Shields. “I have admired the work of the Montana University System and enjoyed my time as an undergrad in Big Sky country – I can’t wait to get to work!”

Shields appointment is currently pending Board of Regents approval.

Dr. Shields' resume

PHOTO ABOVE: Dr. William Shields