Building Bridges

Leadership Montana was founded nearly twenty years ago to help leaders in our state work better together with a deeper knowledge of each other and our communities. This knowledge, combined with collaboration and civility, are the tools we need to build bridges across divisions of every kind.

At the heart of our work, that’s what we do. We build metaphorical bridges across very real gaps in our society. Through our many programs, we help you learn from each other, seek understanding, and engage respectfully, even in disagreement. This is what our world needs even more of right now.

We are proud of one very important fact. In the last five years, our programming has grown exponentially. What started with one core program has now grown to fifteen offerings that we provide you and the public of Montana. Our priority will always be the flagship experience, the entry to this Leadership Montana community.

This year, we are launching a new program designed for those in our community by creating an opportunity to learn from and alongside Indigenous leaders of our state.

Barbara Braided Hair (2005) inspired this program during a flagship class visit to Northern Cheyenne Nation in 2017. From that day and until her passing in 2019, her eyes sparkled when we talked about what was possible with this innovative idea. My conversations with our founder Tom Scott always included big dreams about how this type of work can change the fabric of society.

It is with these Leadership Montana icons in our minds and hearts that we present to you the Indigenous Immersion Initiative. We look forward to listening to your thoughts and reading your applications for participation.

Be well and lead well,

Chantel M. Schieffer
President & CEO
Class of 2010, Masters 2019