A Strong Finish. An Even Stronger Future. 

As summer settles across Montana, I find myself reflecting on the people, conversations, and moments that made this program year so meaningful.

Over the past year, we’ve watched leaders step into their potential, welcomed new alumni into our community, strengthened connections across the state, and continued to prove that Leadership Montana’s mission is as important today as it was over 20 years ago. Every program, every conversation, and every connection has reinforced that Montana needs leaders who are willing to listen first, stay curious, and build bridges across differences.

Hatton Littman and I had the opportunity to close out the year this month in a fitting way by leading a workshop at the Montana Festival, Montana Over Party: The Future of American Democracy. It was an honor to share Leadership Montana’s mission and our recent 5 year civility data, while highlighting the inspiring work of seven Montana legislators—from both sides of the aisle—who demonstrated what respectful dialogue, collaboration, and civility can accomplish. Their willingness to listen, engage respectfully, and seek common ground reflects the very values we strive to cultivate in every Leadership Montana participant.

      
State Legislators: L to R: Llew Jones-R, (LMT 2020), Pat Flowers-D,    Leadership Montana’s team members: Hatton Littman, Heather Collins,
Bruce Gillespie-R, Cora Neumann-D, David Bedey-R, Chris Pope-D,      Kelly Heaton and Kass Thompson
Brad Barker-R

As we turn the page toward another year, I hope you’ll help us keep this momentum going. If you haven’t yet renewed your Leadership Montana alumni dues, I invite you to do so today. Your support helps sustain alumni programs, scholarships, and the experiences that continue to shape Montana leaders. More than that, it keeps this remarkable community connected and ensures the Leadership Montana experience is available for generations to come.

Thank you for being part of this community and for carrying Leadership Montana’s values into your work, your communities, and your everyday conversations. Together, we’re keeping the magic alive and building a stronger Montana—one relationship at a time.

I hope your summer brings time to slow down, reconnect with family and friends, and enjoy everything that makes Montana such a special place. See you out there!