University Communications and Marketing

MSU Billings introduces Center for Engagement

Department restructure results in the unification of student engagement efforts

University Communications and Marketing, 657-2266

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES —The former Student Union and Events Office, Office for Community Involvement, and Diversity Center at Montana State University Billings will all be housed under the Center for Engagement beginning this academic year. The former offices will retain their previous functions, but will now be under one unified center that will allow students to explore all of their options for involvement on campus and in the Billings community in one place.

The Center for Engagement will cultivate community ties and foster engagement to promote the college experience in and out of the classroom through its ability to take a broader and more integrated approach to student engagement at MSU Billings. The Center, located in the Student Union Building, will serve as a one-stop shop for involvement of all kinds for the institution’s students, faculty and staff and the Billings community.

“We see this as an incredible opportunity to connect students to the vast offerings we provide enhancing their co-curricular learning experience” says Kristin Peterman, director of the Center for Engagement.

The Center will be led by Peterman and Assistant Director, Brandee Soens. Colton Adams will continue serving as the Technical Assistant. Joining the Center for Engagement team are new staff members Peter Buchanan, Civic Engagement Coordinator; Chase Greenfield, Student Engagement Coordinator; and Katelyn Focht, Program Assistant.

Buchanan comes to MSU Billings from Scotland, where he previously held positions as a researcher at the University of Dundee and the University of St. Andrews.

Greenfield is a recent graduate of the University of Montana and served the institution as the Business Manager for its Associated Students. He also served as a Regent for the Montana University System and as a Board Member for the Montana Public Interest Research Group.

Focht is a recent graduate of MSU Billings where she served as the president of the Associated Students. She was an active student leader and looks forward to continuing her involvement as a staff member.

The Center for Engagement will be hosting an open house on September 20 from 2-4 p.m.