CLASSROOM REFLECTION

Flagship Reflection

Scott Heidebrink, Lewistown, Class of 2024

After two sessions, one being in my hometown of Lewistown, I can say I am inspired, hopeful, and grateful for Leadership Montana, the people of Montana, and the future of this place.

Nature, recreation, ranching, farming, hunting, hiking, and many other outdoor pursuits are part of the culture of Montana and it is one of the things I love about this place. I have lived in many places across the United States and Montana is not the norm, it is unique in the way it values its natural places and spaces and the way its residents interact with the natural world.

Coming into the Leadership class of 2024, I was skeptical. How could I, as a conservationist, fit into this class? How could I relate to others? How could I find commonality? How could I relate? Now after our second session, I can see how Montanans are all different shapes, like puzzle pieces. Each shape (person) is unique in their career, passions, communication styles, and many other things, but we all make up one vision, the amazing puzzle that is Montana!

I’m grateful that Leadership Montana is providing the opportunity to develop the skill to see all these pieces that makeup Montana, start to see how the pieces fit together, communicate with those pieces, and continue to be part of the great puzzle that is Montana. This is only the beginning!