Montana State selects Sally Mudiamu as new dean of Global Engagement and International Programs

BOZEMAN - Sally Mudiamu, deputy executive director of Global Engagement and Initiatives at Portland State University, has been selected as the new dean of Global Engagement and International Programs at Montana State University. She will begin her new position on Jan. 6, 2025.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Sally Mudiamu to MSU. Her extensive background in fostering global partnerships and her dedication to enhancing international education will elevate our programs to new heights," said Robert Mokwa, MSU executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. "Her leadership will be key in advancing MSU's mission of preparing students to be learned professionals and global citizens."

Mudiamu, who brings over 28 years of experience in higher education, has held a variety of positions at Portland State in addition to her role as deputy executive director of Global Engagement and Initiatives, a position she began in November 2021. Her other roles have included director of the Office of International Partnerships and Initiatives, director of Portland Center Programs and director of the Portland State University/Waseda Transnational Programs.

"I am honored to join Montana State University and look forward to collaborating with faculty, students and staff to further the university's global engagement goals," Mudiamu said. "This is an exciting time for MSU, and I am eager to contribute to its vision for international programming. Global education has never been more important, and I'm excited to work with MSU's dynamic community to expand the university's international footprint while fostering inclusive and impactful partnerships."

Mudiamu earned her doctorate in educational leadership in postsecondary education from Portland State University, a master's degree in later modern British history from the University of London and a bachelor's degree in history from Lewis and Clark College.

Mudiamu was selected after a competitive national search that attracted numerous highly qualified candidates, Mokwa said. She was one of four distinguished finalists who visited the MSU campus this month for interviews. The selection process included meetings with faculty, administrators and students, and included an open public forum and presentation.

"Dr. Mudiamu's experience and passion for global education make her an excellent choice to lead MSU's international efforts," Mokwa said. "We are confident she will build on the strong foundation established by her predecessors and further enhance MSU's mission to provide all our students high-quality transformational learning experiences."

Mudiamu replaces Dan Miller, who served as interim dean for the past year.

"Dr. Miller provided exceptional leadership during this transitional period, and the university is deeply grateful for his dedication and impactful contributions," Mokwa said. "As Dan steps aside to pursue other opportunities, we extend our sincere appreciation for his service to the Global Engagement and International Programs team.

"We extend our gratitude to the seven-member search committee for their diligent efforts throughout this national search," Mokwa continued. "Special thanks go to Vice President and Dean Sreekala Bajwa, who chaired the committee and provided valuable leadership and guidance throughout the process."