By Dr. Stefani Hicswa
Chancellor, Montana State University Billings
As 715 students mark the completion of their academic careers at Montana State University Billings on May 3, I reflect on the powerful link between our community and your university.
Since its inception nearly a century ago, MSU Billings has played an integral role in the education and employment of Yellowstone County residents. Now, as then, MSUB graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce or take on continued education to make Montana a better place.
Since beginning my role as chancellor five years ago, I continue to witness the passion and dedication demonstrated by our faculty and staff while serving our students. Likewise, our students demonstrate incredible determination. Many work multiple jobs, are parents, or are dealing with the unexpected challenges of life while pursuing their degrees. Their grit is admirable, and I am so very proud of them.
More than 60 percent of MSU Billings students call Yellowstone County their home. Another 1,126 students are from other Montana locations, meaning 90 percent of the total student body are Montana residents. Additionally, our data shows that most MSU Billings graduates stay in the area and contribute to local workforce growth. Last year, 60 percent of City College graduates found work in Yellowstone County and 42 percent of University Campus graduates were employed locally. Many have started businesses in the Billings community as well.
I am proud that Yellowstone County sees MSUB as their local university of choice. This shows a lot of trust in our faculty, staff and community connections. That commitment remains, and we will harness its power to help our students, the region, and the state.
Our strength is being a student-centered university, and our dedication is to meet the needs of our students. After all, as history tells us, when they succeed, we all succeed.