Montana Western Announces Interim Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance and Interim Executive Foundation Director

The University of Montana Western has named Roxanne Engellant as Interim Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance and Stacie Watkins as Interim Executive Director of the Montana Western Foundation beginning October 19, 2026.

In the Interim Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance role, Engellant will provide leadership for the university’s administrative and financial operations, working closely with the Chancellor and campus colleagues to support responsible resource management, institutional planning, and student success.

“Roxanne has shown over her many years of service to UMW that she is more than capable of thoughtfully overseeing the stewardship of resources to ensure that our faculty and staff have the support they need to provide our students with the opportunity to thrive,” said Montana Western Chancellor Estee Aiken. “I look forward to working together as we advance Montana Western’s priorities and plan for the future.”

As a member of the university’s executive leadership team, Engellant will help align financial and operational decisions with Montana Western’s mission and strategic goals. The interim appointment will support continuity across administrative and financial functions while encouraging collaboration and clear communication throughout campus.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve Montana Western and work alongside colleagues who care deeply about this university and its students,” said Engellant. “My priority will be to listen, build strong working relationships, and help our campus make informed decisions that support both our immediate needs and our long-term goals.”

Previously, Engellant has served as the Executive Director of the Montana Western Foundation and the Alumni Office for over 15 years. To ensure a smooth transition between roles, the university and the Montana Western Foundation have named Stacie Watkins as Interim Executive Director, beginning October 19, 2026.

In this role, Watkins will lead the Foundation’s work to strengthen philanthropic support for the University of Montana Western, continue to build relationships with alumni and donors, and connect supporters with opportunities to make a meaningful difference for students.

“We are pleased to welcome Stacie into her new role at the Montana Western Foundation,” said current Executive Director, Roxanne Engellant. “Our supporters share a deep belief in our students and the opportunities a Montana Western education can provide. It’s exciting to look toward the future as she continues to build on the relationships that make our work possible.”

Working with the Foundation’s board, staff, and university leadership, Watkins will help advance priorities that support scholarships, academic programs, and the student experience.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to serve the Montana Western Foundation in this new role,”

said Watkins. “I look forward to engaging with our alumni, donors, and campus partners, hearing what inspires their connection to Montana Western, and working together to create opportunities for students.”