The University of Montana Alumni Association has recognized 25 graduates under the age of 25 for their achievements in various fields soon after completing their studies. The “25 Under 25” spotlight highlights alumni who have made notable contributions to their professions and communities.
“These young alums are truly remaking the world with their incredible dedication to their careers and communities,” said LeAnn Layton, UM’s associate vice president for alumni and community relations.
“University of Montana alumni continue to inspire us with their drive to create meaningful change, both close to home and around the globe,” Layton said. “The 25 Under 25 honorees exemplify how Grizzlies translate their education into real-world impact early in their careers, and we are thrilled to celebrate their remarkable achievements and bright futures.”
Honorees include individuals working in education, public service, journalism, athletics, science, technology, law, military service, nonprofit leadership, and business. Their work spans local communities in Montana as well as national and international arenas.
Some examples from this year’s list include Mack Anderson of Bozeman, a former basketball player now working in sports marketing; Josh Bannan from Melbourne, Australia, who is playing professional basketball internationally; Alexios Brown of Missoula working on forest stewardship; Carmen Gfeller competing internationally before returning to teach and coach; Rachana Harris serving with the Peace Corps; Jorgia Hawthorne involved in political advocacy; Madison Kohls serving as an Army officer overseas; Talon Kristenson teaching elementary school in Arizona; Cameron LaFond working in cybersecurity management; Clarise Larson reporting on news in Alaska; Kayla Leavell practicing speech language pathology; Mia McKinney leading youth programs at YWCA Missoula; Isabelle Melton attending Harvard Law School while engaging in legal advocacy work; Kevin Northey advising policy at state and federal levels; Dylan Notturno specializing in marketing strategies for a media company; Libby Riddle communicating science through education roles and podcasting while pursuing graduate studies at UM; Abigail Sherwood participating in environmental research before starting law school at UM this fall; Scott Sicz managing client success at a health-tech startup based out of San Francisco; Kolter Stevenson awarded a Rhodes Scholarship for study at Oxford University focused on sustainable energy systems research.
Other honorees include those advancing music performance careers with military bands, supporting students with special needs as speech-language pathologists in rural schools, reporting on state politics for Montana publications after national fellowships or internships, advising clients financially while coaching high school athletes locally, leading operations at technology firms supporting Montana’s economy or educating visitors about Yellowstone National Park’s natural resources.
Profiles of all honorees will be featured on social media channels managed by the university and published in Montanan magazine.
For more information about the program or its recipients contact LeAnn Layton at the University of Montana Alumni Association.
