Montana State University announced on Mar. 12 that Rolf Stigum Groseth and Jaynee Drange Groseth will receive a joint honorary doctorate of humane letters during the spring commencement ceremony on May 8 at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.
The honorary degree is the university’s highest commendation, recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to society. The Montana Board of Regents approved the honor for the Groseths, who both served MSU in public-facing roles for decades.
Jaynee Groseth began her association with MSU as a student in 1969, later working in admissions and leading the Alumni Association until her retirement in 2013. She developed several initiatives now integral to campus life, including orientation programs, the Spirit Squad, AdvoCats tour guides, and helped found the Presidential American Indian Alumni Brunch. Rolf Groseth joined MSU in 1977 after earning advanced degrees and serving as an Army veteran. Over his 37-year career, he held multiple administrative positions across three MSU campuses, including chancellor of MSU Billings. During his tenure there, he oversaw significant facility expansions and scholarship fundraising efforts.
Both have been active beyond their professional roles. Jaynee founded a nonprofit promoting higher education opportunities statewide and participated in community organizations such as Bozeman’s Chamber of Commerce and United Way. Rolf contributed to groups like Friends of Montana PBS and Leadership Montana. Together they supported events like Sweet Pea Festival and established scholarships at both MSU Bozeman and Billings.
In their nomination letter, Matt Caires, dean of students at MSU, and Dorothy Bradley described them as “two of the cornerstones that have built the foundation of what Montana State University is today.” They wrote: “We have known them throughout their careers and have never seen two people – a couple – with greater dedication, lifelong commitment and affection for Montana State University. Their service to the community and state has been filled with energy, creativity, having an eagle eye for problem solving, and spreading goodwill and inclusiveness everywhere.” The letter continued: “Together, Jaynee and Rolf have quietly distinguished themselves time after time leading by example, improving the lives of students, parents, faculty and staff, serving and creating organizations and events, and building lasting friendships for MSU along the way.”
Montana State University operates as Montana’s land-grant institution focused on research, education, outreach efforts addressing key challenges according to its official website. The university leads in research funding within Montana with annual expenditures exceeding $288 million according to its official website, ranks among the top five percent of global universities per international rankings according to its official website, enrolls about 17,165 students split between residents and nonresidents according to its official website, contributes through volunteerism aimed at enhancing lives statewide according to its official website, provides access to outdoor recreation amid vast wilderness while offering extensive academic programs according to its official website, extends influence beyond state borders according to its official website.
The recognition of Rolf Stigum Groseth and Jaynee Drange Groseth highlights not only their individual achievements but also underscores MSU’s ongoing commitment as a land-grant university dedicated to public service.