ALUMNI IN ACTION

As interviewed by Cindy Trimp, Class of 2018

Spending time with Laurence Hubbard (most know him as “Lanny”) is a reminder of the essence of Leadership Montana, the spirit of Gracious Space. As you sit down with him the sense of graciousness is immediate. It’s from the bottle of water he has ready for you and his calm, curious intent to be present.

Laurence graduated from the Class of 2007 and is currently serves as the Board of Governors Chair. Working for Montana State Fund for 28 years he is currently the President/CEO and has been in this leadership position for 14 years. He lives in Helena just minutes from trails and lakes. Which is perfect for him as he enjoys sailing and fly fishing. His best memories as a child were spent in the great outdoors of Libby, Montana. He and his wife raised two children in Montana doing the same things he loved as a child. Enjoying the open spaces of Montana.

His favorite memories from Leadership Montana involve the Sidney gathering. Particularly the drive to Sidney and touring the sugar beet factory. Hearing what the perception of Western Montana is to those in Eastern Montana was enlightening. He mostly remembers the camaraderie and support from the home team, they were called “trust holders” then. He relishes the personal connections he made and the deep friendships.

When asked what the strongest impact of Leadership Montana has made for him professionally and personally his answer was that “leadership is a team sport with its own set of unique challenges”. He reminds us to have intention every time we come to the table with a problem and to be curious long enough to suspend judgement. This is when civil dialogue can begin and problems can be solved.

He respects Leadership Montana because without fancy marketing or pretense it has evolved into an organization in which civil dialogue happens. He had the opportunity to talk to someone who strongly disagreed with him and he used the philosophies of gracious space to address the elephant in the room. It was during this civil conversation that they were both able to address and solve a problem in ways in which change happened.

When asked what he loves most about Montana, he pauses, takes a breath and says, “We all care deeply about Montana its wide-open spaces, a safe place to raise children in the wild outdoors.”

Most recently his employees voted him “employee of the month” at State Fund even though it is against the rules to vote for upper management. However, his team felt strongly enough that they were willing to ignore the rules and nominate him. It’s moments like this that we are reminded that when we lead we influence people.

Lastly Laurence reminds us to lead authentically and discover your authentic self. Laurence embodies the spirit of Leadership Montana. He leads with courage, grace and with deep humbleness.