SPRING 2020
THE MAGAZINE OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN COLLEGE
OUTDOOR NATIVE RECREATION AMERICAN PROGRAM OUTREACH PROMOTES PROGRAM STUDENT GAINS WELLNESS MOMENTUM CONTRIBUTORS Halie Cardinal A NOTE from the PRESIDENT Sue Lawrence Robert Seas Earlier this spring we celebrated the 111th Desmond Woodbury anniversary of Rocky’s first Candlelight Dinner. This annual tradition has become a symbol of the PHOTOGRAPHERS institution’s resilience. Little did we know that our Alsa Photography resilience soon would be tested again. As this issue Sue Lawrence Amy Lynn Nelson of Green & Gold goes to press, the world faces an Paul Ruhter unprecedented global crisis. The novel coronavirus Dave Shumway (COVID-19) pandemic threatens our way of life and Cortney White has disrupted how we deliver instruction at Rocky Desmond Woodbury Mountain College. While we cannot fully anticipate the current or future impacts of the pandemic, you DESIGN & PRINTING can be assured that your college is making the best Ultra Graphics of a difficult situation. In early March, we joined other educational RMC EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP institutions in Montana to take steps to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health PRESIDENT: Robert Wilmouth, M.D. and safety of our students and community. The PROVOST & ACADEMIC VICE College moved to online instruction and canceled PRESIDENT: Stephen Germic, Ph.D. in-person events. For the first time ever, our 138th Commencement Ceremony will be held virtually. In EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & DEAN spite of the challenges, I am proud of the response OF STUDENT LIFE: Brad Nason by our students, faculty, and staff. We have risen to VICE PRESIDENT FOR meet this crisis head-on, by quickly converting our ADVANCEMENT: Tyler Wiltgen classrooms and laboratories to virtual platforms. For more than 142 years, Rocky Mountain College CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER: has been committed to delivering our educational Melodie Milroy mission. It has faced numerous hardships including DEAN OF ENROLLMENT: earthquakes, drought, world wars, the Great Austin Mapston Depression, and mergers. We have always met challenges with our Montana work ethic and know Green & Gold is a publication that any obstacle can be overcome if we stick of the Office of Marketing and together. I am grateful for all that our faculty, staff, Communications. For more alumni, and friends continue to do to promote the information, please contact safety and success of our students. 406.657.1105 or [email protected]. I hope that this issue of Green & Gold can serve as a reminder of the momentum our College OFFICE OF MARKETING AND achieved this past academic year and the promise COMMUNICATIONS that we continue to offer: the opportunity for our 1511 Poly Drive, Billings, MT 59102 students to transform their lives through education. We look forward to persevering through this challenge, like we always have.
ON THE COVER: Christian Parrish Takes the Gun, aka “Supaman,”performs in Robert Wilmouth, M.D. Losekamp Hall in January 2018. Photo by Paul Ruhter Rocky Mountain College President CONTENTS 15
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OUTDOOR NATIVE AMERICAN CAMPUS NEWS 3 RECREATION 15 OUTREACH 9 RMC’s Outdoor Recreation PROGRAM program promotes student 21 STUDENT RMC’s Native American SPOTLIGHT well-being by removing Outreach program is invested barriers. in Native American education at every level. 27 ARBORETUM 12 PRESIDENTIAL LECTURE SERIES 23 111th CANDLELIGHT 31 ATHLETICS This academic year, a new DINNER NEWS lecture series brought prominent On February 13, Rocky speakers to campus for thought- Mountain College honored ALUMNI provoking conversations about its 2020 alumni award 36 diverse topics. Recipients. PROFILE
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 2 OUTDOOR RECREATION PROGRAM
Rocky Mountain College’s Rocky Mountain College’s PROMOTES STUDENT WELLNESS
Photos by Dave Shumway and Paul Ruhter
3 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 ucked away in a cavernous basement but the most visible aspect is the free gear office in the Bair Family Student Center, rental,” said Lohrenz. “I try to promote Tthe Rocky Mountain College Outdoor independent recreation and look for ways to Recreation program houses an impressive remove barriers so students can explore the collection of outdoor gear available for check outdoors. I encourage them to create their own out to students, faculty, and staff. The collection opportunities. The lack of a sleeping bag or a includes gear for the many outdoor pursuits that tent may be the only factor preventing a student draw students to attend college in Montana, from gaining a new experience. I love the fact such as fly fishing, camping, hiking, mountain that I can provide that missing piece to students biking, skiing, and snowshoeing. and give them that opportunity.” Outdoor Recreation Program Director, “I also enjoy leading trips,” Lohrenz continued. Tim Lohrenz, promotes outdoor recreation “We might go to the Pictograph Cave or the opportunities from hiking on the Billings Rimrocks for a hike. I also lead extended trips for Rimrocks to fly fishing in the Beartooth those who are interested. For example, we might Mountains. Lohrenz’s mission is to challenge the do a spring break trip in the desert southwest individual and contribute to student wellness. that would include, potentially, canyoneering Lohrenz’s office space is filled with dozens of rock climbing, hiking, and a water sport. I’ve led sleeping bags hanging from overhead hooks, a couple trips to Hawaii which included surfing ski equipment, stacked boxes of new waders, and sea kayaking.” camping gear, waterproof hiking boots, bikes, Outdoor Recreation trips for the 2019-2020 and other outdoor recreation supplies. Outdoor school year included hikes, rock climbing, skiing, enthusiasts from beginner to expert level cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Each fall, can find what they need to outfit their next during New Student Orientation, Lohrenz leads adventure. all freshmen and transfer students in a variety “There are a lot of facets to the program, of group experiences. The students can choose
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 4 between a local experience or an overnight Lohrenz. “Developing that support system camping experience. before they’re on their own and facing the “The local experience last fall included a trip struggles of academic life really helps with their to Lake Elmo for paddle boarding, kayaking, and transition.” canoeing followed by a barbecue,” said Lohrenz. Giving incoming freshmen the option of “We also had challenge activities on campus, a local activities versus an overnight camping trip to ZooMontana, a visit to Get Air Trampoline experience was designed to allow them to Park, and a double feature at the Art House choose the option that best fit their personal Cinema downtown.” comfort zone. Each option showcased what “The camp experience was held at Beartooth Outdoor Recreation had to offer the rest of the Christian Camp, where we had a WiFi-free school year, from weekly intramural sports to overnight camp,” said Lohrenz. “Students overnight camping trips. had the opportunity to ride down a zipline Lohrenz also teaches recreational classes or waterslide and play in a spring-fed pond such as fly fishing, rock climbing, skiing, and occupied by a large inflatable we call the wilderness first aid. An aviation winter survival ‘Blob.’ Challenge activities included paintball, class was added last year at the suggestion of basketball, volleyball, and horseback rides.” Rocky Mountain College’s Director of Aviation, “Students could basically play for the Dan Hargrove. Students receive college credit weekend, make some great connections with for such courses, while learning a new sport or one another, and have an opportunity to skill. establish friendships that might become the “Almost all of my trips are designed for the foundation of their experience at Rocky,” said beginner to intermediate level,” said Lohrenz.
5 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 6 7 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Photo by Sue Lawrence
“Last year, I took a group of students ice climbing and none of them had climbing experience.” The Outdoor Recreation program is a unique perk available to members of the Rocky Mountain College community. Program updates are available by accessing Outdoor Recreation’s kiosk located in the Bair Family Student Center or by following Rocktivities Involvement Network social media accounts. For gear rental, the program employs work-study students to assist I try to promote with checking out equipment. Handbooks are also available to provide instruction on a variety of outdoor topics and skills as well as maps and independent recreation and directions for local hotspots. look for ways to remove “There are many benefits to outdoor activities. There’s the mental “ benefit of being outside, clearing your mind, and being in nature barriers so students can produces a sense of calm,” said Lohrenz. “There are definitely benefits to our emotional and mental health that come from these activities, and just explore the outdoors. being physically active is helpful.” —TIM LOHRENZ The camaraderie that develops among small groups on these Outdoor Outdoor Recreation Program Director Recreation trips also contributes to student wellness at Rocky Mountain College. “Students often meet new people on these trips that they might not have interacted with otherwise,” Lohrenz said. “They have an opportunity to meet new people and discover diverse backgrounds in others.” Rocky Mountain College’s Outdoor Recreation program presents students with opportunities that may have been unattainable otherwise. The program takes students beyond classroom walls to make new outdoor experiences possible.
” GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 8 Rocky Mountain College to launch new Doctor of Medical Science program In February, the Rocky Mountain College Board of Trustees and faculty approved a new Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program designed for practicing physician assistants who already have their master of physician assistant degrees. “The proposed Doctor of Medical Science program elevates our already strong Physician Assistant Studies program and, with its focus on rural health, better positions us to serve the needs of regional communities,” said Provost and Academic Vice President, Stephen Germic. “We cannot overstate our excitement.” The new program promotes the physician assistant profession through the enhancement of knowledge in leadership, healthcare policy, quality medical delivery improvement, and research. Dr. Heather Heggem, currently director of the Master of Physician Assistant (PA)
IN MEMORIAM
RANDY SCOTT RMC friend, alumnus and trustee Randy Scott passed away unexpectedly in November. Randy played on the Battlin’ Bears basketball team and graduated from Rocky Mountain College in 1977. He had served on the Board of Trustees since 1996. He was a tireless champion of Rocky’s mission and a steadfast supporter of students in their pursuit of higher education. Randy was born on January 5, 1954, in Fort Collins, Colorado, to Dan and Jeanne Scott. The oldest of six children, Randy spent his younger years in Ranchester, Wyoming, on his parents’ ranch. RANDY SCOTT Of the many things he excelled at, his greatest passion was basketball. Randy finished out his college basketball career at Rocky Mountain College. It was at Rocky in 1975, that he met Lynette Stepper, his love, partner and best friend. They were married on July 30, 1977, in Lynette’s hometown of Terry. In 1975, while attending Rocky, Randy began his career as a teller at Security Bank (now known as First Interstate Bank), joining the Scott Family banking enterprise. Randy became a dedicated employee, leader of his community and church, and, most importantly, a nurturing father for his family.
DR. JAMES “DOC” MCDOWELL Dr. James “Doc” McDowell, who served as a professor of business for 45 years at Rocky Mountain College, died on February 13, 2020. During his tenure, Dr. McDowell impacted the lives of many students, staff, and faculty. He made many lasting and meaningful contributions DR. JAMES “DOC” to the lives of countless students over his decades of teaching and MCDOWELL | CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
9 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 program, will serve as Founding Director of move into leadership roles in clinical medicine the new program. Current PA faculty member, and academics.” Adam Mattingly, will take over as Director of the Designed for working professionals, the PA program. new DMSc program will be offered online and “Our mission at Rocky Mountain College is open to qualified, credentialed physician encourages lifelong learning and academic assistants. The online format further supports excellence,” said Dr. Heggem. “As an educator, the program’s mission of meeting the health I was excited to complete my DMSc degree needs of rural and underserved populations. in order to bring that knowledge back to our “We’ll be recruiting high quality medical PA classrooms. In doing so, I realized the professionals to teach online,” said Dr. Heggem. exceptional opportunity such a program could “We want our students to practice clinically offer our PA students. Completing our new and fulfill the critical need for providers in rural 12-month Doctor of Medical Science program areas. In order to accomplish that, we couldn’t will improve their knowledge base, clinical have them travel long distances back to campus. skills, and communication with patients and We anticipate 24 slots for the initial class and 30 colleagues. It also allows them to potentially slots thereafter.”
RMC acquires new building for Physician Assistant Studies Program
In February, Rocky Mountain College purchased a new building to house its Master of Physician Assistant Studies (PA) Program. The building, located at 2411 Village Lane, will house the entirety of the PA program including its academic, administrative, and clinical functions. The building will facilitate the expansion of the PA program from 36 to 48 students, which was approved last spring by the program’s accreditor. The incoming Class of 2020 will be the first cohort to occupy the new facility, beginning in July. Director, Adam Mattingly. “New technologies With over 8,400 square feet, the facility and innovations are rapidly changing how will include a lecture hall, a conference room, medical education is delivered. This new, state- eight medical exam rooms, lab spaces, a of-the-art facility will help us maintain the high student lounge, an ER training laboratory, standards and quality that students expect and faculty and administrative offices. The from our program.” College plans to begin renovating the building The College’s PA program boasts a national this spring. Renovations will include installing reputation for the exceptional quality of its technology for advanced wireless connectivity, faculty and graduates. And the program modernizing the facility, creating the classroom continues to fulfill its founding vision: To space, and updating instructional equipment. excel as a center of health care education “This is an exciting time for our program dedicated to providing medical services to and the medical community that supports us. the underserved and rural populations of this Approximately 50 percent of our graduates intermountain region. Last summer’s white choose to stay in the region, and the expansion coat graduation ceremony marked the 21-year should translate into more access to health anniversary of the Physician Assistant program care in our rural communities,” said Program at Rocky Mountain College.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 10 In Memoriam | CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
service at Rocky Mountain College. In 1965, Doc was offered a position at Rocky Mountain College as an associate professor of business. In 1970, he became a full professor, retiring in 2011 after 45 years at Rocky and then served as professor emeritus. He was recently awarded the Spirit of Candlelight award by RMC, a high honor recognizing his years of service and impact. Doc was influential in providing invaluable internship opportunities to his students to ensure their academic and professional success. He started a rodeo club and helped build a rodeo arena. He supported the athletic programs and represented Rocky at many events. He sponsored the business club and mentored many students. He considered his students his greatest legacy.
RMC partners with University of Montana Law School to offer 3+3 program
Rocky Mountain College has signed a with Rocky Mountain College,” said School memorandum of understanding with the of Law Dean Paul Kirgis. “We’ve gotten Alexander Blewett III School of Law at the outstanding students from RMC over the University of Montana to establish a 3+3 years, and this program will help open degree program for prospective law school pathways for students to pursue legal careers students. on a shortened timeline and with a reduction The 3+3 program allows students to in the student debt that burdens so many complete a bachelor’s degree and a law graduates.” degree in six years rather than the more typical Students from a variety of majors can seven. Under the new program, students can take advantage of the 3+3 program, which attend Rocky Mountain College for three years requires successful completion of at least and then apply to the Blewett School of Law 90 undergraduate semester hours, including to complete their education. Credits earned in core curriculum and major requirements. the first year at the law school will serve as the While admission to UM Law is not guaranteed, final 30 credits for the student’s RMC degree. applicants for the 3+3 program will receive “This program offers an excellent pipeline expedited review, with notice of the admission for students who know they want to go to decision within two to four weeks of applying. law school,” said RMC Pre-Law Advisor and The addition of the 3+3 program provides Professor of Political Science, Dr. Matthew another pre-professional track at Rocky O’Gara. “They can attend Rocky Mountain Mountain College and will help strengthen an College and reap the benefits of small classes, excellent record of consistent placement for personal attention and feedback on their RMC students who want to continue on to writing as they prepare for law school. Much graduate programs and professional careers. like RMC, the law school at UM is an incredible “Our focus on the core skills of problem- value. It’s consistently ranked among the best solving, critical thinking, and writing align value law schools in the country and ranks perfectly with the University of Montana Law third in the West in terms of placing students School’s high-quality program,” said Provost in clerkships, which is a solid path to a career and Academic Vice President, Stephen Germic. in law. Only Stanford and Berkeley rate higher “We’re confident our students will meet UM in this regard.” Law’s high expectations and thrive in their “We’re excited to develop this partnership pursuit of a law degree.”
11 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Photos by Alsa Photography
The Rocky Mountain College Presidential Lecture Series
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 12 he Rocky Mountain College Presidential Lecture Series seeks to bring prominent speakers to campus for thought-provoking conversations about diverse topics from experts in their field. TThese lectures offer our students, faculty, staff, and community an exceptional opportunity to learn from nationally-recognized leaders who offer unique insight into the trends, events, and innovations that shape our world. The series launched in 2019 with a presentation on blockchain technology with tZERO Vice President of Product Development, Rob Christensen. The Presidential Lecture Series has also hosted actor Gary Farmer, and award-winning journalist Lara Logan. [Editor’s note: Security expert Jeffrey Mader’s scheduled lecture on April 2 was postponed due to the COVID-19 crisis.]
ROB CHRISTENSEN Rob Christensen is the tZERO Vice President of Product Development. tZERO, a global leader in blockchain innovation, intends to strengthen capital markets by increasing transparency, providing a liquidity framework to markets, and reducing reliance on costly intermediaries. Using a proprietary blockchain technology and strategic partnerships, tZERO is creating an innovative capital markets platform. They are creating a two-sided network connecting issuers with investors in a superior solution for accessing capital and enabling secondary liquidity for traditionally illiquid investments. Rob Christensen has been tZero’s Vice President of Product Development for the past several years. During this time, he led technology teams to the issuance of the world’s first CryptoBond in July of 2015, and the world’s first publicly traded CryptoSecurity “OSTKP” preferred shares in December of 2016. Throughout his career, Christensen has driven innovation and great user experience within the blockchain financial technology sector. Christensen specializes in bridging the gap between users, financial institutions, regulators, and blockchain technology.
LARA LOGAN Lara Logan is an accomplished investigative journalist who specializes in reporting from the front lines of many conflicts, including the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Throughout her career, Logan has confronted the harsh and dangerous realities of war, conflict, and global change. Logan, a native of Durban, South Africa, spent the past 16 years working for CBS News and 60 Minutes. In 2019, Logan joined the Sinclair Broadcast Group as a special correspondent. As one of the world’s best foreign correspondents, Logan has won multiple awards including Emmys, the Edward R. Murrow Award, and the Alfred I. duPont– Columbia University Award. Among her other accomplishments, Logan has also received an Overseas Press Club Award; the Daniel Pearl Award for Outstanding International Investigative Reporting; Glamour Woman of the Year, and five American Women in Radio and Television Gracie Awards. Logan graduated from Durban’s University of Natal in 1992 with a degree in commerce. She also holds a diploma in French language, culture, and history from the Universite de L’Alliance Francaise in Paris.
GARY FARMER Gary Farmer, born in Ohsweken on the Six Nations Reservation along the Grand River of the Iroquois Confederacy in Ontario, Canada, studied photography
13 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 and film at Syracuse University and Ryerson Polytechnic University. Over the last 25 years, Farmer has portrayed over 100 roles in independent and mainstream film and television. A pioneer in the development of First Nations media in Canada, Farmer is the founding director of Aboriginal Voices Radio, founding editor- in-chief of the Aboriginal Voices magazine, and previously led the Aboriginal Voices Festival. Farmer is best known for his role as spiritual Native American guide Nobody in “Dead Man” (1995). Other key roles have included Arnold Joseph in “Smoke Signals” (1998) and Philbert in “Powwow Highway” (1989), which became a milestone in Native film. As a filmmaker, Farmer has directed projects including an episode of the “Forever Knight” television series (1992) and an episode of “Father Figure” (1992). Farmer also formed the blues band Gary Farmer and the Troublemakers who have released two albums, “Love Songs and Other Issues” (2007) and “Lovesick Blues” (2009). Farmer recently completed the film shoot “Cowboys” in Montana, and he is currently working on the NBC Universal series “Resident Alien” which will debut on the SYFY Network this summer. Farmer was selected in 2001 for the Taos Mountain Award recognizing lifetime achievements of an outstanding Native film professional by the Taos Talking Picture Festival. He also received the 1997 Best Actor award from the American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco; the 1997 Best Actor award from First Americans in the Arts in Los Angeles; and the Best Actor award at the 1989 American Indian Film Festival.
JEFFREY MADER Jeffrey Mader is Director of Identity Management at Halo Privacy and on the Board of Directors at The Penrose Corporation. Having supported US Special Operations and the Intelligence Communities for more than twenty years, he has recently made the transition to assisting private and corporate clients with their privacy and security needs. Jeffrey has a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, an MBA from George Washington University, and is a PhD Candidate at Oklahoma State University. Mader characterized his lecture, “Privacy in the Digital Age,” below. “People’s everyday interactions are mediated by some form of technology,” said Mader. “We do our banking on the computer, our shopping on a tablet and we communicate with each other via text. Throughout all of these interactions we leave a massive trail of digital fodder which, in its aggregate, tells a detailed story of our day-to-day lives. Marketing companies have turned the collection and analysis of this data into a multi-billion dollar industry. An industry that feeds on your personal information and has rendered privacy in the digital age nearly impossible.”
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 14 15 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 RMC’S NATIVE AMERICAN OUTREACH PROGRAM GAINS MOMENTUM
he Native American Outreach (NAO) program at Rocky Mountain College Tis rapidly gaining recognition and momentum. Founded in 2017 through a generous donation from Howard and Judy Jelinek, the program is attracting prominent Indigenous leaders and garnering national attention. Just this spring, the program established an artist-in-residence program with acclaimed Crow artist Ben Pease and hosted famed First Nations actor and musician Gary Farmer for the College’s Presidential Lecture Series. NAO Program Director Misty Kuhl, who has led the program for the past two academic years, is thrilled with the program’s progress. Currently, in what Kuhl refers to as the “start-up phase,” the program is focused on recruitment, retention, outreach, and fundraising for long term sustainability.
Photos by Paul Ruhter and courtesy Ben Pease
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 16 “We are planning to bring more Native American artists, lecturers, thinkers, and dancers to campus,” said Kuhl. “As we get Photo by Desmond more students involved, engaged, and Woodbury responsive, we want to introduce classes RMC freshman covering a variety of Native American topics. Henry Pretty One of our long term goals is to create a Native On Top grew up as a member American Studies academic program at Rocky. of the Crow I’m excited that we’ve enlisted an Indigenous Tribe in Lodge faculty adjunct who will begin teaching this Grass, Montana. While looking fall.” at colleges, he “There are many possibilities, but even the wanted to stay in Montana to introduction of an academic minor would be be near family. a huge draw for Native American students, A runner in particularly since we started the 3+3 law high school, Henry hoped program with the University of Montana,” said to continue at Kuhl. “If a student came here and minored the collegiate level if possible. in Native American studies and majored in He found his political science, they could transfer to UM Law place at Rocky and specialize in Indian law or go back to their Mountain College and communities with a background in tribal law. It was awarded could be a win-win-win with lots of ripples.” the Dean’s The College currently has 50 Native Scholarship for academic American students. The Native American achievement. student retention rate from the Fall 2019 term to Spring 2020 was 83 percent. Kuhl works closely with the Admissions office to get involved in recruiting as early as possible. “We want to make Native American students aware of all that Rocky has to offer them,” said Kuhl. “I travel all over the state as part of our recruiting and community outreach efforts. Rocky Mountain College is invested in Indian education at every level. I want to meet as many teachers and school administrators involved in Indian education as possible. It’s empowering for Native American students to know as early as elementary school that college is possible.” The Native American Outreach program has Olivia Smith, a sophomore Native American enhanced my experience by providing the support student from Missoula, Montana, signed on as “ a work-study for the NAO program in spring of network that I needed and a work-study job that 2019 and has been critical to the success of the allows me to help out other Native students. program. “The NAO program has enhanced my —OLIVIA SMITH experience by providing a work-study job that RMC sophomore and member of the Crow Nation allows me to help out other Native students,” said Smith, who is a member of the Crow Nation. “Along with experience that will be useful in my future endeavors, the program also provided a support network that I needed when coming to Rocky.” An important NAO program initiative Smith has focused on is re-launching the Native 17 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine” of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 American Student Alliance (NASA), which was formerly a chartered student club on campus that has been inactive over the past year. “We want that place where native and non- native students can come together and discuss issues and develop leadership skills,” said Kuhl. “Our goal is to have the club chartered by the end of the semester so we can start fresh when students come back next fall.” In January 2018, NASA worked with NAO to bring in Christian Parrish Takes the Gun, also known as “Supaman,” for a show in Losekamp Hall’s Taylor Auditorium. The free event was an immersive combination of comedy, hip- hop, and traditional Native American fancy dancing. Supaman, raised in the Crow Agency of Montana, has established himself as an influential force in the hip-hop scene. Throughout the day leading up to the concert, Supaman spread positivity, speaking with students, staff, and local media about the importance of music and comedy in sharing and appreciating culture, saying that “there is Enlisting prominent Native American artist no better way to spread positive vibes.” The Ben Pease to pilot an artist-in-residency message of the night was clear and reached program at the College was another high an audience of all ages: be a warrior. Supaman profile success for the NAO program. Pease’s encouraged strength, acceptance, positivity, work is well known for its unique and culturally and thoughtful decision making. relevant style using historic photographic
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 18 Photo by Alsa Photography
Actor Gary Farmer with NAO Program Director Misty Kuhl and RMC artist-in-residence Ben Pease.
references while also touching on current shared their ideas, memories, and family events and issues simultaneously. Pease uses histories to shape “Apsáalooke Women both antique and contemporary items collaged and Warriors.” The show weaves into his work to create literal and conceptual contemporary artwork and stories reference points. together with historical materials from “Creating community is important for the collections to explore new meaning. retention,” said Kuhl. “Ben is part of the The NAO was instrumental in bringing Rocky community now and for students to Indigenous actor Gary Farmer to campus. have access to him and know that there are Farmer visited Billings in February to Indigenous leaders on campus that they can deliver a speech as part of the College’s engage with is vital.” Presidential Lecture Series. He met with Both Pease and Supaman contributed to an Ben Pease, who regards Farmer as a important new exhibition, “Apsáalooke Women childhood hero, attended a screening and Warriors,” that opened at Chicago’s of his film “Dead Man” at the Babcock prestigious Field Museum on March 13 [editor’s Theatre, and played a blues and rock show note: the museum has since closed temporarily at Craft Local with his band, Gary Farmer and due to COVID-19 concerns]. The exhibition the Troublemakers. features 18 Apsáalooke (Crow) collaborators “Gary didn’t just come and give a lecture,” who bring their knowledge and artistry in the said Kuhl. “He got out in the community form of beadwork, clothing, video animation, to meet people where they are. Sharing painting, and photography. Dozens more our resources and opportunities with
19 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Photos courtesy Stapleton Gallery Artwork by Ben Pease, “Do You See Me, The Way I See Me?” (left) and “Knowledge X Power.” the community is good for everyone, but chief of the Aboriginal Voices magazine, and especially our Native American students. I have previously led the Aboriginal Voices Festival. a friend who says, ‘If you can’t see it, you can’t Farmer is best known for his role as spiritual be it.’ To be able to expose Native American Native American guide Nobody in “Dead Man” students to Native American leaders in every (1995). Other key roles have included Arnold field is extremely important. Mr. Farmer is Joseph in “Smoke Signals” (1998) and Philbert an iconic Indigenous actor, musician, and in “Powwow Highway” (1989). advocate for Indian Country. It was amazing While bringing Native American leaders to be able to share his talent and wisdom with on campus is the most visible aspect of the our students and the Billings community.” NAO’s mission, the program enjoys broad Farmer, born in Ohsweken on the Six support from the College, which is particularly Nations Reservation along the Grand River gratifying for Kuhl. of the Iroquois Confederacy in Ontario, “I’ve never seen an institution support Canada, studied photography and film at student success at such a deep level,” said Syracuse University and Ryerson Polytechnic Kuhl. “Rocky is so supportive of NAO. The University. Over the last 25 years, Farmer has coaches, faculty, staff, and leadership all portrayed over 100 roles in independent and contribute. As I get out and meet folks in mainstream film and television. A pioneer in similar roles at other colleges, they don’t enjoy the development of First Nations media in the same level of support that we get. People Canada, Farmer is the founding director of seek me and our Native American students out Aboriginal Voices Radio, founding editor-in- for input and feedback, which is awesome.”
MISSION The Rocky Mountain College Native American Outreach program is invested in the potential of Native Americans: in education, leadership and self-determination. We believe in the transformational potential of our students and communities. In order to contribute to the achievement of our students and Indigenous neighbors we strive to provide a community that is empowering, encouraging, and engaging.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 20 Student SPOTLIGHT
CARRIE DANIELS
Photo by Paul Ruhter
HOMETOWN: Roundup, Montana
MAJORS: Art Business Administration: Management
MINOR: Communications
WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED? met with the cross country and track & field coach and a student-athlete. My dad was in the military which caused my Meeting the coach and knowing that the staff wanted me to be a part of family and I to move several times during my the team was really awesome. Everyone was welcoming and the campus childhood. However, Montana is definitely my itself was perfect. home state because I have lived here since fifth grade. Roundup, Montana is my hometown. TELL US ABOUT YOUR RUNNING CAREER AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN COLLEGE. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE ROCKY MOUNTAIN For the past four years, I have been on the cross country and track COLLEGE? & field team. In the fall, I run for the cross country team, which has After my junior year of high school, I visited qualified for nationals the past two years. This year, we were ranked 11th Rocky Mountain College and knew that this was in the nation which was an awesome achievement. The outdoor track the right place. I wanted a smaller school that & field season begins in the spring, which is when I run mostly mid- was close to home that gave me the opportunity distance. to succeed, as well as run cross country and During most meets I run the 800m and the 4x400 meter relay. Having track & field. During my tour of the campus, I a supportive team is really important and my teammates are amazing.
21 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Photo by Alsa Photography
WHAT ORIGINALLY SPARKED YOUR WHAT IS IT LIKE SERVING AS A STUDENT AMBASSADOR AND PASSION ABOUT RUNNING? LEAP PEER MENTOR? I started running competitively in seventh As a Student Ambassador for the Office of Admissions, I lead grade alongside one of my best friends. campus tours for prospective students, help with volunteer work, Building connections with people kickstarted and support visit and registration events. Supporting the recruitment my passion for running. Running is also just of students is pretty cool. The Rocky Mountain College Leadership, freeing. Running in every aspect has brought Engagement, and Achievement Program (LEAP) supports student really good people development by providing helpful services into my life. People and resources. LEAP’s Peer Mentor I want to keep. And Program assists freshmen students you can really do through academic support and goal amazing, impactful setting. Mentoring is awesome. We had the things with it. opportunity to choose the freshmen that we mentored and this year I have student- TELL US ABOUT athletes and art majors. Each week I meet PARTICIPATING with the students to help them through IN THE ULMAN school and guide them through their FOUNDATION’S 4K freshmen year. I have formed really strong FOR CANCER. connections with the students this year. The Ulman Helping new students and supporting their Foundation is a non- success is very rewarding. profit that supports young adults fighting WHAT ARE YOUR POST-GRADUATION cancer. During the GOALS? 4K for Cancer event, My lifelong passions are running and I ran locally with a fitness. In the immediate future, I want relay team. Together, the team logged more to start a Billings Christian running group because those are two than 4,000 miles from San Francisco to important aspects of my life. I have also been working on my New York City. The whole experience was an certification as a personal trainer. After I complete my certification, adventure. Those affected by cancer feel like my goal is to work in a group setting for a gym and then transition family after the 4K. Making a positive impact to more individualized work. After I gain more industry experience, and supporting the mission of the Ulman I want to utilize my business administration degree to start my own Foundation through running was fantastic. business.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 22 Rocky Mountain College
celebrates111th Candlelight Dinner
uring the 111th Candlelight Dinner on February 13, 2020, Rocky Mountain College honored its 2020 alumni award recipients. DDr. James “Doc” McDowell, Dr. Elizabeth McNamer, Michele Stewart (‘91), and Lindsey Gray (‘10) were each recognized during the event. Rocky Mountain College offers three alumni awards, which are given to alumni and supporters of RMC for personal success and dedication to the College and its programs. The contributions made by the honorees to the Rocky Mountain College community demonstrate the selflessness, dedication, and forward focus that were central to the first Candlelight Dinner. The Outstanding Young Alumni award is given to alumni under the age of 40 who have demonstrated high standards of integrity and character that positively reflect and enhance the prestige of Rocky Mountain College by making outstanding contributions in their chosen field, providing service in local, state, or national affairs, or service in support of the advancement of Rocky Mountain College. The Distinguished Alumni award honors Rocky Mountain College alumni who have achieved distinction in their personal or professional lives. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional achievement in
23 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Photos by Alsa Photography
their profession, made significant contributions Candlelight Dinner every winter since 1910, to their community through public service or starting when students first arrived at the philanthropic endeavors, or have demonstrated campus below the Billings Rimrocks to find a commitment to the core values and mission that the electricity had not been turned on. of the College. The students, staff, and faculty then ate their The Spirit of Candlelight award is given first meal by the light of donated candles. annually to an individual or group that Over the years, this tradition has served as a exemplifies the enduring spirit of stewardship reminder to all of the trials and tribulations and service in pursuit of excellence that is at Rocky Mountain College has overcome the heart of the Candlelight tradition. through the hard work and generosity of the Rocky Mountain College has celebrated community.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 24 Alumni Award RECIPIENTS
OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNI AWARD
LINDSEY GRAY (‘10)
A 2010 graduate of Rocky Mountain College, Lindsey Gray studied aeronautical science and philosophy. Gray was President of the Associated Students of Rocky Mountain College and was named “The Outstanding Senior in the Aviation Program.” Her passion for aviation and helping those in need led to a successful career as chief pilot for African Inland Missions (AIM) located in Nairobi, Kenya. As chief AIM pilot, Gray oversees 10-12 pilots and six aircraft while traveling to war-torn countries to provide humanitarian relief. For the past five years, Gray has aided refugees in South Sudan and the Central African Republic. Gray has flown over 70 times into South Sudan and the Central African Republic at considerable risk to herself. In these missions, she has delivered relief supplies and flown refugees out of harm’s way. Gray maintains a strong relationship with Rocky Mountain College through campus visits and speaking to freshmen aviation students in the AVS 100 class.
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
MICHELE STEWART (‘91)
Michele Stewart has served as a Federal Bureau of Investigation crime victim specialist for over twenty years in eastern Montana. Stewart provides services to victims of violent crimes and other offenses, including child abuse, human trafficking, and kidnapping. As part of her work, Stewart has built relationships with the Crow and Northern Cheyenne Reservations. With expertise in victim services and a strong connection to the Crow and Northern Cheyenne, Stewart is an exceptionally effective advocate for Native American communities in Montana. In 2018, Stewart was recognized by Montana’s top law enforcement officials as an Outstanding Advocate of the Year for her work. Stewart’s relentless dedication has assisted prosecutors with convictions as she continues to provide victims with the necessary support to become successful survivors.
25 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 SPIRIT OF CANDLELIGHT AWARDS
DR. JAMES “DOC” MCDOWELL
Dr. James “Doc” McDowell served as a professor of business for over 40 years at Rocky Mountain College. During his tenure, Dr. McDowell impacted the lives of many students, staff, and faculty. He helped students develop skills in leadership, communication, DR. ELIZABETH MCNAMER critical thinking, creative expression, and professional excellence. He was instrumental in providing invaluable internship opportunities to Dr. Elizabeth McNamer joined Rocky his students to ensure their academic and professional success. Dr. Mountain College in 1990 and served McDowell exemplifies the Spirit of Candlelight. as an assistant professor of religious thought. Over the course of her career, Dr. McNamer built relationships with many students and community members. She led several trips to Israel to partake in Bethsaida archaeological excavation, assisted students with special needs through the Services for Academic Success program, and welcomed international students into her home as they arrived to Rocky Mountain College. An author, Dr. McNamer has published two books, articles, and a column for the Billings Gazette. Dr. McNamer has received numerous awards including excellence in teaching awards from Eastern Montana College and Rocky Mountain College.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 26 Rocky Mountain College Awarded ARBORETUM ACCREDITATION
ast fall, Rocky Mountain College was awarded a Level I Arboretum Accreditation by The ArbNet Arboretum. The College has also Lbeen recognized as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s arboreta. Rocky Mountain College’s campus comprises 60 acres and includes a variety of native trees and plants. Currently, there are just four arboreta in the state, only two of which are accredited. “Rocky Mountain College has a beautiful, historic campus and this designation from ArbNet puts us on a national level,” said Keith North, Director of Campus Facilities & Administration. “This came about from working with the Yellowstone Arboretum at ZooMontana. We’re in partnership with them to help foster the beauty of the trees within the Billings community.” The College worked with staff of ZooMontana’s Yellowstone Arboretum and the arborist for the City of Billings to develop a plan for managing and improving the arboretum. A tree walk is planned that will initially feature more than 25 labeled trees and shrubs.
27 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Photo by Dave Shumway
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 28 29 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 “We have some significant, historic trees and florae on campus,” said North. “For example, we have two very old American elm trees that we treat each year with injections to maintain their health. Few elm trees survived Dutch elm disease, which decimated the species in North America in the 1920s.” Currently, there are approximately 75 unique plant and tree species on campus. Planning is underway to plant additional species that will help the College attain Level II status. Achieving Level I accreditation required 25 or more labeled trees or woody plant species as well as meeting standards for further development, planning, and promotion of the arboretum. Level II accreditation requires 100 or more labeled trees or woody plant species. RMC students have been involved throughout the process, both as part of their classes and through the student-led Environmental Club. Associate Professor of Environmental Science and Botany, Dr. Megan Poulette, has enlisted her students to help identify and label campus trees and shrubs for the tree walk. In addition, students will work on a brochure and website with additional information to support and enhance the tree walk. “We’ll try to get a label on every unique species on campus,” said Dr. Poulette. “The labels will list the plant family, botanical name, common name, and, where relevant, Crow and Northern Cheyenne names.” “This designation as an arboretum gives us a great opportunity to involve the community in a unique green space within the city of Billings,” said Dr. Poulette. “Through the labels and supporting materials, we hope to educate the community about native and invasive species and their role in the ecology of the region. We’ll invite the K-12 community to bring students to campus as part of their science lessons. The tree walk and arboretum will provide an excellent way to extend this educational opportunity beyond campus.”
ABOUT ARBNET ArbNet is an interactive, collaborative, international community of arboreta. ArbNet facilitates the sharing of knowledge, experience, and other resources to help arboreta meet their institutional goals and works to raise professional standards through the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program. Standards include planning, governance, public access, programming and tree science, planting, and conservation. More information is available at www.arbnet.org.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 30 ATHLETICS NEWS SOCCER
Photos by Amy Lynn Nelson
the Battlin’ Bears defeated the MidAmerica Nazarene Pioneers 2-0 before advancing to the second round where they defeated Midland University in an intense penalty kick shootout. Rocky Mountain College’s women’s soccer team’s historic season came to a close with a 4-0 loss to the eventual NAIA champion, Keiser University, in the third Rocky Mountain College’s women’s soccer round of nationals. Advancing to the tournament’s final site was the team experienced a record-breaking season program’s first time making it to this round in school history. during the 2019-2020 academic year. As the The Battlin’ Bears ended the 2019 season with a 14-5-3 overall tying team progressed into one of its most successful the program’s record, set by the 2008 and 2012 teams, for most wins in seasons in program history, several student- a season. athletes left their mark in the school’s record As for the team’s other accomplishments, Lauryn Gamache and Maia books. Wetzel each broke individual records during the season. Gamache, a Chief among the team’s accomplishments senior from St. Louis, Mo., has 50 career goals, 23 career assists, and this year was the longest postseason run in 123 career points which counts as the most in school history in all three Rocky’s women’s soccer history. The Battlin’ categories. Gamache finished the 2019 season with 17 goals which Bears advanced all the way to the 2019 ranked No. 33 in total goals in the NAIA. She also recorded five assists Cascade Collegiate Conference Championship for a total of 39 points for which she earned an honorable All-American this season before losing 2-1 to Eastern Oregon. selection, first team all-conference honors, and was awarded the 2019 Nevertheless, the Battlin’ Bears earned an at- Cascade Collegiate Conference Women’s Soccer Co-Offensive Player large bid to the 2019 NAIA Women’s Soccer of the Year. National Championship. On November 1, 2019, Rocky Mountain College defeated Northwest In the championship’s opening round, Christian University 11-0 in a historic victory. Rocky’s 11 goals counted
31 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 All-American for the second time in her career,” said Rocky Mountain College’s Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Richard Duffy. Wetzel finished the 2019 season with a school-record 14 shutouts in a season and a school-record 14 goalie wins. Her 96 saves in 2019 also counts as most by a Rocky goalkeeper in a single season in team history. The junior from Billings, Montana received second team all- conference honors for her accomplishments this season. This counts as the third all-conference selection for Wetzel who earned an honorable as most in a single match in program history. mention all-conference selection in 2018 and a second team all- The previous record was 10 goals against conference selection during her freshman year. Southwestern College of Arizona in 2009. Beyond Gamache’s and Wetzel’s achievements, four other Battlin’ Adding another broken record to Gamache’s Bears earned all-conference honors. Rita Marshall was selected as prestigious collegiate career, the senior scored second team all-conference. Marshall was key anchor in a Battlin’ Bears five goals, which counts as most goals in a defense that ranked No. 8 in shutouts per game (.630). This was her single-match in program history. Gamache second straight year earning a second team all-conference selection. became the Battlin’ Bears’ all-time leading Ellen Hunsaker, Alexis Robbins, and Alyssa Schneider each received an scorer. honorable mention all-conference selection. “Lauryn had another exceptional year and Rocky Mountain College’s women’s soccer team looks to continue thoroughly deserved to be named a NAIA their success during the upcoming season.
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 32 ATHLETICS CROSS NEWS COUNTRY
Photos by Cortney White
Photo by Desmond Woodbury
One of the most notable athletics’ stories cross country team won McLean’s first Frontier Conference title. during this past academic year has been the Racing at Amend Park in Billings, Montana, the Battlin’ Bears finished rise of Rocky Mountain College’s women’s with 36 points to claim first place at the 2019 Frontier Conference cross country team. The team won the Frontier Championship. Conference Championship, the first under Rocky Mountain College’s Ruth Chepsat won the Frontier Head Cross Country Coach, Mike McLean, and Conference Championship in a time of 18:44.50. With the victory, finished 11th at the 2019 NAIA Women’s Cross Chepsat earned the Frontier Conference Women’s Cross Country Country National Championship. Ruth Chepsat Runner of the Year honor. earned the first All-American honor for the Three other Battlin’ Bears finished with the top ten times among women’s cross country team in recorded school the 49 runners competing at the race. Sydney Little Light finished in history. fifth with a time of 19:24.30 while teammate Mei-Li Stevens finished These achievements would have seemed right behind her on a time of 19:31.80. Courtney Hallock ran a time of impossible two years prior when the team 19:36.20 to place ninth. All four runners received all-conference honors placed last at the conference championship. for their performances. Carrie Daniels finished in 15th as Rocky’s fifth However, the team quickly bounced back from scoring runner at a time of 20:08.00. One notable absence from the that result by earning their first trip to nationals team was Corinne Hamilton who was unable to compete due to health one season later. In 2018 the team finished concerns. 26th at nationals, but the Battlin’ Bears were “We were doing this for Corinne,” said Little Light. “We were happy determined to do even better. that Corinne was able to witness the victory.” “The first time the team made it to nationals Despite her inability to run, Hamilton arrived from an interview just was in 2018. They were wide-eyed and looking in time to see conference officials awarding the Battlin’ Bears the around because it felt more like Disneyland championship title. than a competition, but I knew that they had “While I was in the hospital the team visited, which made me more potential than 26th place,” said McLean. feel even more grateful for my teammates,” said Hamilton. “The That experience propelled the Battlin’ Bears championship was the best moment of my career and I didn’t even run. to their best season in 2019 as the women’s It was a very special moment.”
33 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 19:02.8. Courtney Hallock finished 20 seconds later in a time of 19:22.5 in 88th place. Running a time of 19:32.3, Mei-Li Stevens finished in 113th. Carrie Daniels ran a time of 20:07.9 to finish in 206th. Larissa Saarel took 246th place in a time of 20:31.3 while Carina Bracy placed in 267th With the conference win, the team after running the race in 20:49.7. earned their second consecutive visit to “We took what we did last year and improved together. We worked the NAIA Women’s Cross Country National together through adversity,” said Bracy. “It took the entire team. We Championship. Rocky Mountain College earned get along like sisters. Unconditionally.” their highest ever finish at nationals after For senior Carrie Daniels, who was a member of the 2017 last place placing in 11th among the 37 teams racing at team, Rocky’s success this season came down to team chemistry. the competition with a score of 365. Chepsat “At nationals, everybody stepped up to the challenge. The team was placed in 12th, which counts as the highest competitive and we were all working together. Compared to where we finish for an individual runner in school history were my freshmen year on the team, we have come a long way,” said according to available records. Daniels. Chepsat ran a time of 18:21.1 in the 5K race Teammate Guan-Yin Stevens also attributes the team’s success to a and finished in 12th out of 341 runners racing. positive culture. The finish earned the student-athlete from “Our team dynamic was better this year. In practice we would Eldoret, Kenya an All-American selection which motivate each other,” said Stevens. “It was nice to see Coach McLean notably marks her as the first Rocky women’s earn a first place trophy.” cross country runner to receive such an honor. The team not only succeeded athletically, but they also prospered in “It was really amazing. It was what I was the classroom with a 3.6 cumulative grade point average. working toward all of my career,” said Chepsat. Rocky Mountain College’s women’s cross country team has a bright “I wanted to make my coaches and parents future ahead with the goal of earning a top ten finish at nationals. proud. I knew I had the potential, but I needed “It feels like everything paid off. We all felt that we could do it, but to fulfill the goal.” we needed to prove it this season,” said Mei-Le Stevens. “It will be cool Little Light finished in 55th in a time of to see how the team improves together again.”
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 34 ATHLETICS NEWS
Photos by Alsa Photography
Fortin gymnasium floor renovated
Fortin Education Center’s First Interstate Bank basketball teams were the first to play on the Court underwent a major renovation during Fortin Education Center gym floor. Prior to the the 2019-2020 academic year. Rocky Mountain floor’s original installation, all basketball games College student-athletes and community were hosted at the Shrine Auditorium while members alike are enjoying the pristine new practices were dispersed between local gyms flooring. On January 15, 2020, the current and an on campus practice gym. basketball teams played their first games back on “The new floor is terrific,” said RMC’s Men’s home court after a season of playing in displaced Basketball Head Coach, Bill Dreikosen. “We’re locations, similar to that of decades ago. excited to see the positive impact the new floor Fifty years ago, the 1969-70 Battlin’ Bears will continue to make for our student-athletes.”
35 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 Profile
MARCELL BRUSKI Photos courtesy Marcell Bruski
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE ROCKY MOUNTAIN COLLEGE? HOMETOWN: I wanted to go to Billings for college, I liked the city and had Ekalaka, Montana family that lived here. I toured MSUB and RMC. I instantly fell in love with Rocky, the beautiful campus, the smaller class sizes, and their GRADUATION YEAR: great business program. Once I stepped on campus for the tour, I 2017 knew instantly that this is where I would go. MAJOR: WHO INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST WHILE YOU WERE AT Business Administration ROCKY? HOW DID THEY INFLUENCE YOU? A few professors pop to my mind when I think about the answer CURRENT OCCUPATION: to this question. Nick Plunkey, Erin Reser, and Matt O’Gara. The Marketing & Outreach Program most influential for me was James Smith, my advisor and business Manager, Big Sky Economic Development professor. He was influential from day one, he provided guidance in my education and mentorship in my later years towards an internship and job opportunities. His classes were some of my favorites because they felt like seminar classes. And as you get into your junior and senior year those should be some of your favorite, most challenging courses that help you know that you selected the right major. To this day, he still is a professor I connect with at least once a semester. Rocky Mountain College WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM YOUR TIME AS A STUDENT AT ROCKY? empowers you to push past Our 2015 trip to Dublin, Ireland. I was in a special business course in the spring of 2015 that was set to visit Dublin, Ireland and intellectual and personal London, England in May. It was a small class of about 14 students boundaries. that researched industries and businesses in each city. We then did —MARCELL BRUSKI what we could to schedule visits to these organizations and learn “ Class of 2017 about international business. It was an educational experience of a lifetime. During this trip one of my classmates and I became instant best friends. A great lifelong friendship all because of this school trip. GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain” College | SPRING 2020 36 WHAT WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING I liked working at the Chamber and got great experience and YOU LEARNED WHILE ATTENDING ROCKY? exposure to the Business and Young Professional community of How to think critically. As a student, it’s not Billings. They liked me, too, and in the fall of my senior year, when it always fun or motivating to take classes that was time to return to school, I continued working part time as an event don’t pertain to your major, but they give you a assistant with them (and Visit Billings). When nearing graduation, they look into other majors and give you a wide lens asked me “what’s next?” I didn’t know and hoped they would make a to look through when you go about your life. position for me. I was lucky enough that they did. I continued working at the Chamber for more than a year before making my next move. In PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR EDUCATIONAL September 2018, I began working at Big Sky Economic Development AND CAREER PATH. as their Outreach Project Manager. In June of 2019, I was promoted I grew up in a small town in eastern to the Marketing and Outreach Program Manager. I now oversee the Montana, Ekalaka, graduating with a class of marketing and advertising for Big Sky Economic Development and nine. Most people are shocked by this, unless their eight different programs. they are also from a small town. Small towns have advantages that bigger schools don’t. WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT? Everyone is involved. I had the opportunity The relationships I have built thus far in my career are my greatest to be a high school athlete in three sports achievement. I was able to develop these relationships through my and travel across the nation for the Family, work at The Billings Chamber and Big Sky Economic Development, Career and Community Leaders of America in addition to my involvement in the Philanthropic Educational organization. In addition, I participated in Organization women’s chapter, Billings NextGEN, 25 Under 25 student government, the national honor by Forward MT, Billings Depot Board Member, Montana Young society, and other clubs. During my early Professional Summit Board, Big Sky State Games, and others. Being time at Rocky, I was going to double major only 24, I feel blessed to have learned early on in my life the value of in Political Science and Business. I ended up relationships and being part of a community. changing this my junior year and only majoring in business, adding a minor in communication. IN WHAT WAYS DID YOUR EDUCATION AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN As a business student at RMC, you need to COLLEGE PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR CAREER? complete an internship. I was encouraged by Rocky teaches students how to think critically, and I believe this my advisor (James Smith), to find one that skill can be applied anywhere. Rocky empowers you to push past wasn’t at my current place of work. I ended up intellectual and personal boundaries, to think differently, and from getting an internship at the Billings Chamber of different viewpoints. Rocky pushes you to achieve excellence, Commerce. James’s advice, looking back, was surrounds you with students from a variety of backgrounds from an essential piece to beginning my career. For across the world, and gives you a community you are proud to be part that, I will be forever grateful. of.
37 GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 ALUMNI BUSINESS DIRECTORY
BANTZ & COMPANY, PC GUESTHOUSE ON THE BRANDON J. BANTZ (‘01) GREEN Accounting Firm COREEN GLEN (‘88) 224 W. Main St., Suite 310 Airbnb Bed and Breakfast Lewistown, Montana 59457 343 Glenhaven Dr. Email: Billings, Montana 59105 [email protected] Email: 406.535.8080 [email protected] bantzco.com airbnb.com
HANSEN WEALTH BEAVER CREEK BREWERY MANAGEMENT SANDY STINNETT (‘93) CARL HANSEN (‘85) 104 Orgain Ave. D.A. Davidson & Co. Wibaux, Montana 59353 208 N. Broadway, Suite 100 Email: Billings, Montana 59101 [email protected] Email: 406.795.2337 [email protected] beavercreekbrewery.com 406.248.7851 carlhansencfp.com BLOUNT COUNTY EYE CENTER NORTH AMERICAN INDIAN WILLIAM TANTUM (‘09) ARTS 702 S. Foothills Plaza Dr. SHARON & NEAL LININGER Maryville, Tennessee 37801 (‘61) Email: 419 S. Wheeling Way [email protected] Aurora, Colorado 80012 865.982.6761 Email: blounteye.com [email protected] 303.343.7488 FROM MESS TO BLESSED SARAH KARY (‘05) Professional Organizer 1945 Lake Hills Dr. Billings, Montana 59105 Email: [email protected] 406.855.4067
UPCOMING EVENTS SUPPORT ROCKY MOUNTAIN COLLEGE COVID-19 CRISIS Visit rocky.edu/donate Rocky Mountain College has canceled all College-sponsored and hosted events in the short term due to the COVID-19 crisis. Please UPDATE YOUR CONTACT check our dedicated page for the latest updates about campus INFORMATION activities and events: https://www.rocky.edu/coronavirus. Visit rocky.edu/alumni
GREEN & GOLD The Magazine of Rocky Mountain College | SPRING 2020 38 591 1511 Poly Drive Billings, MT 59102