Brock Tessman

He is known for his energy, his dedication to students, his ability to communicate the value of higher education for America and the world, and his commitment to delivering better outcomes for the university and its students. President Tessman came to Montana State University on July 1, 2025, from the presidency of Northern Michigan University.

President Tessman has extensive experience with the Montana University System. Before leading NMU, he served four years as the Montana Deputy Commissioner of Higher Education for the 45,000 students and 8,000 employees on the system’s 16 campuses. In that role, he drove statewide success across the wide-ranging sectors of academic affairs, student affairs, research and economic development. Dr. Tessman also helped expand college access for rural communities and adult learner populations across Montana.