This Saturday, November 23, 2024, as the Montana State University Bobcats and the University of Montana Grizzlies face off in the annual "Brawl of the Wild" football game before a crowd of 23,000, a select group of student-athletes will be celebrated for their achievements beyond athletics. Governor Greg Gianforte, Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian, and leaders from the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (MCNCE), including college presidents and chancellors, will take the field at Bobcat Stadium to present the prestigious Montana Athletes in Service awards, honoring exceptional community contributions by student-athletes.
A Tradition of Service
Since 2001, this award has celebrated the civic engagement of student-athletes, highlighting their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. Presenting it annually at one of Montana's most anticipated sporting events emphasizes the significance of service alongside athletic excellence.
The Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement
The MCNCE is a collaborative network of 18 diverse higher education institutions across Montana, including public, private, and tribal colleges. It is committed to fostering civic responsibility and community engagement among college students, working in partnership with communities to promote service and civic involvement.
The 2024 Recipients
This year's Montana Athletes in Service award recipients exemplify extraordinary community commitment:
Jay Beagle (University of Montana, Track and Field) has been a pivotal leader in the Grizzly Athletics Student Athlete Advisory Committee, organizing United Way Food Friday and the Griz-O-Ween Halloween Celebration.
Walker Bennett (Miles City Community College, Baseball) serves as president of associated students, volunteering with the ROCKS after-school program and Special Olympics.
Zack Blaszak (Montana State University Billings, Baseball) has organized an annual Holiday Dinner Food Drive for eight years, feeding 500-750 families in need.
Gracey Carter (Montana State University, Track and Field) volunteers with the Bozeman Track Club and the MMIP Club, demonstrating commitment to sports and social causes.
Abraham Chentnik (Flathead Valley Community College, Logger Sports) has dedicated time to conservation projects with the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation.
Abby Clark (Montana Technological University, Volleyball and Track and Field) leads the Student Athlete Advisory Council, organizing blood drives and canned goods collections.
Jaiden Dulin (Dawson Community College, Volleyball) supports the athletic and performing arts center, assisting custodial staff and teachers.
Emily Feller (Montana State University-Northern, Volleyball) participates in the Adopt-a-Highway cleanup and Halloween Trunk or Treat events.
Kaylee Fritz (University of Montana Western, Volleyball) serves as president of the student-athlete association and coaches younger volleyball players.
Tamika Guardipee (Salish Kootenai College, Basketball) volunteers 15 hours weekly in local schools and 10 hours at kids' camps.
Geordy Medicine Cloud (Fort Peck Community College, Basketball and Cross Country) coaches youth basketball and supports Native American celebrations and drug abuse prevention programs.
Hunter Peck (Carroll College, Football) volunteers with Inheritance of Hope, Shodair Children's Hospital, NAMI, Special Olympics, and numerous community initiatives.
Impact Beyond the Game
These student-athletes demonstrate that their commitment to excellence extends far beyond their respective sports. They embody the ideals of civic engagement, dedicating their time and energy to causes ranging from youth mentorship to environmental conservation.
A New Chapter in Civic Engagement
The Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement represents a renewed commitment to addressing the evolving needs of students and communities across Montana. Through initiatives like the VISTA Program and College Coaches AmeriCorps Program, the network provides valuable opportunities for students to engage with their communities.
Looking to the Future
As we celebrate these outstanding student-athletes at the November 23 Cats-Griz game, we are reminded of the vital role that higher education plays in shaping engaged citizens. The Montana Athletes in Service awards not only recognize individual achievements but also highlights the broader mission of building stronger, more resilient communities across our state. The true measure of these student-athletes extends far beyond their athletic prowess. Their character, compassion, and commitment to service truly define them as champions, inspiring us all to make a positive difference in our communities and across this great state of Montana!
For additional information about the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement, visit mtengage.org.
John E. Cech, Ph.D. is the President of Carroll College and the 2024-25 Chair of the 18 college and university coalition of the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement. Cech also served as Deputy Commissioner of the Montana University System from 2011-2018.