Commissioner of Higher Education

Goals

Update: Some consolidation has taken place, and we continue to investigate other opportunities to share services.

Objectives

  • OCHE recently migrated the MUS.edu websites to a virtual server at the University of Montana-Missoula.
    Update: OCHE migrated the MUS.edu websites into a content management system managed by MSU-Bozeman. This system also manages campus websites for MSU-Billings, MSU-Northern, and Great Falls College MSU.
  • Enhance reporting capabilities on MUS.edu website by utilizing Tableau to provide real-time data regarding enrollments, degrees & certificates, and operating budget & performance funding
    Update: A Tableau server was purchased and is housed on the UM-Missoula campus, with Tableau licensing shared amongst all of the campuses. Each campus has the ability to utilize Tableau for reporting, which is then reflected in real-time data posted on the MUS.edu website.

Update: The number of meetings being held virtually continues to expand, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This has provided OCHE staff the ability to continue working without interruption, has provided flexibility for remote working arrangements, and has drastically reduced the need for travel.

Objectives

  • Provide public access to view Board of Regents meeting videos in real-time. Also provide audio recordings of Board conference calls.
    Update: The Board of Regents are working to conduct major meetings virtually using Zoom; Board members and campus personnel provide video presentations which allows for productive discussion of items and issues, while also providing the opportunity for public comment. The meetings are live-streamed via YouTube and are accessible on the MUS website. Meeting video and audio recordings are posted on the Board of Regents website following the meetings.
  • Conduct training sessions and webinars using WebEx and other technologies and make available on the web site.
    Update: OCHE has used WebEx live events for the spring MUS benefits enrollment presentations for both active employees and retirees, with the recordings made available on the web Also have used WebEx video recordings for training provided by Gear Up.

Agency Contact Information

Agency Director / Administrator
Clayton Christian
406-449-9124
cchristian@montana.edu
PO Box 203201, Helena MT 59620
Information Technology Contact
(CIO / IT Manager)
John Thunstrom
406-544-3822
JThunstrom@mso.umt.edu
32 Campus Dr, 305 Brantly Hall, Missoula MT 59812-0004
Information Security Manager
Edwina Morrison
406-449-9150
emorrison@montana.edu
PO Box 203201, Helena MT 59620