Help us in congratulating this year's Alumni Award winners: * Tom Scott Award for Excellence in Leadership- Kelly Cresswell, 2006, M 2022 The award, named in honor of the founder of Leadership Montana, was created as the highest honor for an individual who has made substantial, significant, and lasting contributions to Leadership Montana. Each year the Board of Governors selects this individual to recognize their dedication to the organization and its mission. Kelly Cresswell is the Executive Director of Reach Higher Montana, leading statewide efforts to empower students through education and opportunity. She served on the Leadership Montana Board of Governors for eight years, including as Chair during a pivotal time in the organization’s growth. Kelly lives in Helena and holds a master’s degree in philanthropy and development. * Barbara Braided Hair Alumni Leadership Award - Nancy Schlepp, 2017, III 2023 The Leadership Montana Alumni Leadership Award recognizes and promotes community involvement. The award recognizes a Leadership Montana Alumnus who has had a significant impact at the local or state level, demonstrates outstanding leadership in keeping with and expanding the Leadership Montana philosophy in their community or the state, and serves as an example of leadership for others. Nancy Schlepp is Vice President of Communications and Government Relations at Sandfire Resources America and a dedicated advocate for rural Montana. A former county commissioner and seasoned policy leader, she has served on numerous statewide boards and currently chairs the Montana Chamber of Commerce. Nancy lives in Ringling, where she and her family run a cattle ranch and help steward community initiatives like the restored Ringling Church. * Mike O’Neill Alumni Service Award - Alan Ruby, 2018, M 2023 The Leadership Montana Alumni Service Award recognizes and promotes alumni service to support the Leadership Montana program and/or alumni activities. The award recognizes a Leadership Montana Alumnus who has used their leadership skills, knowledge, and resources to benefit Leadership Montana. Alan Ruby of Kalispell is a longtime community leader and advocate whose career has spanned forestry, small business ownership, and public service. He currently owns Hungry Horse Liquor Store and serves on the Flathead Electric Cooperative and Kalispell Daybreak Rotary boards. Across four decades, Alan has remained deeply engaged in local organizations, striving to “make a positive difference” for future generations. (fb)

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 on your graduation last week. High-Five 25!🎉 (fb)