Michigan native Brock Tessman selected as next NMU president

What’s happening: Northern Michigan University has named its new president. Following unanimous approval from the NMU Board of Trustees, Dr. Brock Tessman has been named the 17th president of NMU. Tessman will take over for current president Kerri Schuiling on Feb. 1, 2023.

Background: Tessman grew up in Plymouth, a suburb of Detroit, before embarking on his academic career. He earned his bachelor’s degree in international relations from Brown University, where he graduated with honors, before attending the University of Colorado at Boulder for both his master’s (international relations) and doctorate (political science) degrees. 

Bona fides: Tessman started teaching at the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) at the University of Georgia before becoming a professor of political science and dean of the Davidson Honors College at the University of Montana in Missoula. He currently leads the $345 million Montana University System (MUS) research enterprise, is the statewide director for Montana’s community colleges, and serves as chair of the Healthy MUS Task Force. 

What they’re saying: “The Board of Trustees was very impressed by all four finalists in our search,” says NMU Board Chair Steve Young. “After a rigorous interview and community engagement process, Dr. Brock Tessman rose to the top as the clear choice for the next NMU president. He possesses the qualities and capabilities critical to the advancement of the university. His strong leadership skills and understanding of the vital need for strategic planning will create an environment for student, faculty and staff success.

“Brock also understands the importance of communication. This will be essential in working with students, faculty, staff, the board and the community in the years ahead. I want to thank the Presidential Search Advisory Committee for their commitment to the university and for bringing us such high-quality candidates.”