University of Montana Foundation

As we celebrate the University of Montana Foundation’s 75th anniversary this year, we reflect with deep gratitude on our past, the continued commitment of our giving community, and the dedication of volunteers who have guided the Foundation’s work along the way.

Homecoming 1950 was in full swing. A small group of community leaders and alumni united with the goal to give back to the school they loved. These forward-thinking volunteers filed Articles of Incorporation to establish what would become the University of Montana Foundation.

Chloe Brown’s career direction changed as a result of her experience in a first-year seminar at the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. Learn how private support of the “Treasure Montana: Cultivating Our Tomorrow” campaign helps students like Brown benefit from hands-on learning.

The Phyllis J. Washington Scholars Program empowers exceptional UM teaching and counseling students to launch their careers in Montana by offering to pay a portion of their qualified student loans for service in Montana schools. It is made possible by a $9.4 million gift from the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation that also established the new Center for the Advancement of Positive Education.

Devin and Justine Iverson’s love story began when they met in the Gallagher Business Building’s computer lab. Now married and thriving in the tech industry, the Iversons have joined other donors in supporting The DEN: Discover, Engage and Network, a 4,000-square-foot lab designed for the next generation of student leaders.

A new anatomy lab will provide human biology and health care students — as well as students in UM’s new Occupational Therapy and Physician Associate programs set to start in fall 2025 and 2026 respectively — with hands-on experience using cadavers and medical manikins.

Recognizing the Grizzly Marching Band's significant contribution to the game day experience, Ren and Kelly Obrigewitch decided to create a two-part gift: providing endowed scholarships for trumpet players and purchasing 24 brand new, high-quality trumpets.

By directing a donor advised fund grant to the University of Montana Foundation, you can support students, empower faculty and build stronger future for generations to come.

Two of the University of Montana’s most successful alumni, Steven Rinella (left) and Eric Sprunk, received honorary doctorates from their alma mater during UM Spring Commencement ceremonies.

In the 1890s, UM's architect designed the Main Hall clock tower to house a carillon. But for decades after Main Hall was built, the clock tower housed only one bell. In 1953 the clock tower finally got its bells, each one dedicated in honor or memory of a loved one.