Published March 5, 2024

Dear MSU Community,

I am pleased to share that Dr. Steven Swinford has agreed to serve as Montana State University's Vice President for Student Success after a national search.

In this role, Dr. Swinford will provide oversight, management and strategic planning for Student Success' many services, including Admissions; ASMSU; Campus Recreation; Dean of Students; Disability Services; Financial Aid Services; Leadership Institute; Registrar; Student Engagement; Student Wellness; and Veterans Services.

Dr. Swinford has been at MSU since 1996, when he arrived as an assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. He was promoted to associate professor in 2002 and later, in 2021, was named vice provost for curriculum, assessment and accreditation. Since the retirement of Dr. Chris Kearns in July 2023, Dr. Swinford has been serving as interim Vice President for Student Success.

Student Success plays a crucial role in helping all of our students achieve their goals. Over the years, Dr. Swinford has displayed an unwavering commitment to our students, and we know they will be in good hands with him at the head of this important part of our university.

Please join me in welcoming Dr. Swinford to his new role.

A press release on Dr. Swinford's appointment will be distributed to media later today. You can read it first here at this link.

Sincerely,

Waded Cruzado
President, Montana State University