The University of Montana Western has appointed Dr. Estee Aiken as the new Interim Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, starting December 27, 2025. This change comes after Dr. Brian Elliott’s seven months in the position. Chancellor Michael Reid expressed gratitude for Elliott’s leadership during a crucial time.
Dr. Aiken brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Currently, she serves as the Dean of Strategic Initiatives at Montana Western, overseeing various academic programs and accreditation efforts. Before this, she was the Division Chair of Education at the university. Her background includes roles in statewide education initiatives, grant development, and teaching.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Music and a Doctorate in Education Studies, Dr. Aiken has a rich academic background. She is also involved in significant statewide efforts, focusing on dual-enrollment programs, workforce readiness, and artificial intelligence. Her commitment to educational development is evident through her involvement as a board member for the Odyssey Early Learning Center and numerous published works.
Chancellor Reid expressed confidence in Dr. Aiken’s abilities, acknowledging her potential to steer the university through its next strategic plan. Dr. Aiken herself is excited about the opportunity, indicating it’s a meaningful time for the university as it charts its future.
As the university looks to fill the permanent Provost position, it will first appoint a new Chancellor. A national search for this key leader is already underway. For more details, you can visit the official search page here.
In today’s rapidly changing educational landscape, the role of university leaders is essential. According to recent studies by the American Council on Education, effective academic leadership can significantly impact student success and institutional growth. This highlights the importance of Dr. Aiken’s leadership during this pivotal time.
