Marrongelle selected as Chancellor of Montana Tech

The Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian and University of Montana President Seth Bodnar announced Wednesday that Karen Marrongelle has been selected as the 13^th Chancellor of the Montana Technological University in Butte.

Marrongelle is currently the Chief Science Officer of the U.S. National Science Foundation, but has extensive experience in the academic sphere, having served as Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as Portland State University, and as a professor of mathematics and statistics there, and in multiple leadership roles within the Oregon University System.

“Dr. Marrongelle’s extensive STEM and research background is a perfect fit for Montana Tech.  Under her experienced leadership, Montana Tech will continue to grow and expand the university’s nationally ranked engineering, science and health care programs,” Christian said in a press release.

Marrongelle will start in her new role as the school’s 13th chancellor on Aug. 4, 2025. Montana Tech has an annual enrollment of roughly 2,500 students.

“I’m honored to be selected to lead such a vibrant campus with a long-standing history of excellence,” Marrongelle said in a statement.  “My family and I are looking forward to joining the Butte community that welcomed us with open arms during our visit. The rich culture and pride of Montana Tech and Butte, Montana, are what drew me to this exciting opportunity.”

Marrongelle has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and philosophy from Albright College, a master’s degree in mathematics from Lehigh University and a doctorate in mathematics education from the University of New Hampshire.