New Campus Spaces Will Elevate Learning
Donor support of facilities propels UM’s vital work and provides long-term benefits to the region and state. Philanthropy renews more than our campus landscape — it enhances the programs, experiences and collaborative spaces that prepare students for successful careers and strengthen our entire community.
A Home for Students, a Home for Music
The legislature has pledged $7.25 million for the renovation of UM's School of Music with a match of $7.25 million in private funding required. Donations to the Music Building's ongoing remodel will modernize the Music Recital Hall, practice rooms, teaching spaces, lobby and offices, and improve accessibility to promote musical learning, performance and creativity for campus and the broader community.
To learn more about supporting this project, contact Kia Liszak, Director of Development for the College of the Arts and Media, at 406-243-5868 or kia.liszak@supportum.org.
A New Hub for Science and Conservation
In 2021, the Montana Legislature appropriated $25 million to construct a new building to serve the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, along with $27 million to renovate UM's Clapp Building.
During the 2025 Legislative session, the appropriations were combined to support construction of one larger building after evaluation of the Clapp Building revealed it should be demolished rather than renovated. The combined $52 million appropriation is the largest single-facility investment in Montana University System history.
Beyond a building, the new facility will house teaching and research labs, a student success center, modern classrooms and convening spaces where students, faculty, community members and partner organizations will learn, collaborate and address the issues that shape our lives in Montana and around the world.
This campaign, “Treasure Montana: Cultivating Our Tomorrow,” seeks to fundraise $20 million in donor support that is needed to realize the construction of the facility.
To learn more about supporting this project contact Melinda Booth, Senior Director of Development for the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, and the Wildlife Biology Program, at 406-243-7474 or melinda.booth@supportum.org.
An Innovative Anatomy Lab
Planned construction of a new anatomy lab at Missoula College will provide hands-on experience using cadavers and medical training equipment for future human biology and health care students. In addition, students in UM’s new Occupational Therapy and Physician Associate programs — starting in fall 2025 and 2026, respectively — will utilize the lab when construction is completed.
Financial support totaling approximately $2 million is needed to fund this innovative facility, which will enhance education for future health care professionals trained at UM who go on to serve patients statewide and beyond.
To learn more about supporting this project contact Kristiana Nelsen-Knowles, Director of Development for the Health and Sciences, at 406-243-7457 or kristiana.nelsen@supportum.org.
