Montana State University announced on May 4 that it will hold a series of listening sessions across Montana this spring and summer to gather public feedback for its new strategic plan. Sessions are scheduled in cities including Glasgow, Ryegate, Ronan, Choteau, Dillon, Missoula, Livingston, Billings and Bozeman. Additional dates are expected to be added soon.
The university said these sessions aim to collect ideas from Montanans and the broader MSU community to help guide its operations and impact in the coming years. James Tobin, executive assistant to the MSU president, said that input from the public is essential as MSU prepares a final draft of its strategic plan in October before presenting it to the Montana Board of Regents on Nov. 19.
MSU’s current strategic plan was adopted in 2019 and amended in 2023. The planning team has already gathered feedback from students, faculty and staff during the spring semester. Now they are seeking broader perspectives through community meetings as well as online surveys for those unable to attend.
Montana State University leads in research funding within the state with annual expenditures exceeding $288 million according to the official website. The university enrolls about 17,165 students with an even split between residents and nonresidents according to the official website. It also ranks among the top five percent of global universities per rankings by the Center for World University Rankings according to the official website.
As Montana’s land-grant institution, MSU focuses on research, education and outreach aimed at addressing key challenges faced by communities according to the official website. The university highlights its commitment through volunteer efforts and initiatives designed to enhance lives and protect natural resources according to the official website.
MSU extends its influence beyond campus borders by serving both Montana residents and people outside state lines according to the official website. Community members interested in participating can find updated information about session times or submit their thoughts via an online survey at MSU’s strategic plan landing page.