UMAA's 25 Under 25 for 2026
UMAA's annual 25 under 25 award recognizes 25 alumni, age 25 or younger, who are making an impact in the early days of their careers, community or beyond. Read about our 2026 award winners!
Dani Bartsch, ’25, ’26
Helena, MT | Missoula, MT
Dani Bartsch earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and recently completed the University of Montana’s Master of Accountancy program. While at UM, Bartsch starred on the Lady Griz basketball team, earning multiple All-Big Sky Conference honors, Academic All-Conference and All-District recognition and the Theresa Rhodes Award for best representing Lady Griz basketball. She also received the Grizzly Cup, one of the athletics department’s highest honors. Following an internship with Wipfli, Bartsch joined Carver Florek & James as an accountant.
Kersey Blackford, ’23
Gardiner, MT | Paris, France
Kersey Blackford graduated with honors from UM with a degree in political science and was a Presidential Leadership Scholar in the Davidson Honors College. Through the Global Leadership Initiative, she completed a yearlong exchange program in the Netherlands. She also earned government-sponsored fellowships in Japan and Taiwan because of her work with the Montana World Affairs Council and the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center. Blackford went on to pursue a master’s degree in international governance and diplomacy at Sciences Po in Paris. Introduced to the issue of orphanage trafficking in Nepal at age 15, she dedicated her graduate thesis to child protection and care reform. She hopes to build a career advancing children’s rights through policy and advocacy.
Meredith Boos, ’23
Elkhart Lake, WI | Madison, WI
Since graduating from UM, Meredith Boos has earned a master’s degree in environmental biology from Regis University and begun pursuing a doctorate in plant pathology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The focus of her doctoral research is on the precision management of golf course turfgrass, with an emphasis on pesticide fate and fungal disease. She has presented her research at multiple conferences and professional events as a lead author. Boos currently works as secretary and sustainability coordinator for ZeruZeru, an international human rights organization that supports children living with albinism in Tanzania. While earning a degree in wildlife biology at UM, she competed on the women’s golf team and was a Presidential Leadership Scholar. Boos also serves as a PGA Associate, leading junior golf events in Madison, Wisc. and recently completed an internship with the USGA Green Section, hoping to use those skills and experiences to advance sustainability in the golf industry.
Kelsie Burns, ’23, ’26
Browning, MT | Missoula, MT
Kelsie Burns recently earned a degree in marketing with a minor in psychology, graduating cum laude. After completing an associate degree in 2023, she dedicated her college career to creating meaningful impact through entrepreneurship, community development and culturally grounded nonprofit work. Through the Native Women Launch program, Burns helped design educational courses and resources that empower Indigenous women entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge and confidence to pursue their business goals. She also supported research through the REAL Women Co-Lab, focusing on rural women entrepreneurs in White Sulphur Springs, Mont., and contributing to efforts that highlighted the opportunities and challenges facing women-owned businesses in rural communities. Burns currently serves as bookkeeper and marketing specialist for Blackfeet Eco Knowledge, a nonprofit dedicated to cultural revitalization, Indigenous knowledge sharing, youth leadership and land stewardship.
Camden Capser, ’25
Billings, MT | Missoula, MT
Camden Capser demonstrated a wide range of talents during his time at UM. A University Scholar in the Davidson Honors College, he earned a degree in business administration and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration. Capser began his collegiate career as a member of the football team before becoming a key contributor to the university’s club soccer program. A leader in the Greek community, he received the prestigious Balfour Award, presented annually to the top graduating member of Sigma Chi nationwide. He was the first recipient from UM. As part of that recognition, Capser was selected to serve a two-year term on Sigma Chi’s International Executive Committee, supporting leadership and educational initiatives across North America. He also embraced entrepreneurship by creating Hustle Fundraise, a fundraising platform recognized at the John Ruffatto Startup Challenge that has helped raise money for numerous organizations and nonprofits throughout the Missoula area.
Brynn Childs, ’24
Highlands Ranch, CO | Rathdrum, ID
After earning a degree in marketing from UM, Brynn Childs quickly advanced at Pathlabs, a Missoula-based digital media execution company. Beginning in the company’s YourPath internship program, she transitioned into a full-time role and was recently promoted to senior account associate. Her contributions to operational innovation, including the integration of artificial intelligence and the development of practical workflows, have earned her multiple internal recognitions.
Ryan Fleetwood, ’25, ’26
Hagerstown, MD | Missoula, MT
Ryan Fleetwood distinguished himself at UM through academic achievement, research and campus leadership. He earned bachelor’s degrees in environmental science and sustainability and geography, with concentrations in water resources and geography, as well as a minor in climate change studies and a GIS certificate. Fleetwood conducted extensive research in hydrology and glaciology, leading to internships with the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. In addition, he served as treasurer of the Forestry Student Association, the Student Association for Fire Ecology and Management and Foresters’ Ball. He was also worked in the Office of the President for over three years. He recently completed a graduate certificate in public administration and will begin a master’s degree in systems ecology at UM this fall, with plans to pursue a doctorate.
Danara Greer, ’22
Florence, MT | San Diego, CA
Danara Greer graduated from UM with degrees in political science and sociology, concentrating in criminology and certificates in global leadership and philosophy, politics and law. She went on to attend the University of San Diego School of Law, where she completed more than 250 hours of pro bono legal service and authored two academic papers selected for publication in peer-reviewed legal journals. One article expanded upon research she conducted through the Franke Global Leadership Initiative focused on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People crisis. Greer is licensed to practice law in Montana, Texas and California. She currently serves in a federal judicial clerkship, a position secured by only a small percentage of recent law school graduates.
Jade Hallgrimson, ’24
Billings, MT | Missoula, MT
Jade Hallgrimson earned a graduate certificate in entrepreneurship from UM while competing on the Griz cross country and track and field teams. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to give back, Hallgrimson managed the Billings-based Local Berry food truck for four years before purchasing the business from her parents and family friends. Since taking ownership, she has opened a storefront in downtown Missoula and expanded the menu at the Billings location. Today, Hallgrimson and her sister own both Local Berry and Fizzies Custom Sodas and uses her success in business to make a positive impact across Montana.
Jaylyn Hallgrimson, ’23, ’24
Billings, MT
Jaylyn Hallgrimson earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and later completed a Master of Business Administration. During her time at UM, she competed on the Griz cross country and track and field teams. After managing the Local Berry food truck for four years, Hallgrimson and her sister purchased the Billings-based business in January 2025. Since then, she has opened a downtown Missoula location and expanded menu offerings at the Billings store. With strong ties to both the Billings and Missoula communities, Hallgrimson is committed to giving back, hiring UM students and creating opportunities for others to succeed.
Molly Keller, ’24
Deer Park, WA | Charlotte, NC
Molly Keller graduated from UM with degrees in management information systems and marketing and mulitple certificates in philosophy, political science and law (PPL), digital leadership and global leadership. During her time at UM, she was highly involved on campus, serving as vice president of operations for Kappa Alpha Theta, an ASUM senator and a UM Advocate. Keller gained valuable professional experience through several internships. She completed a risk and financial advisory internship with Deloitte, launched her marketing career as a Grizzly Athletics marketing and social media intern and later expanded her experience through a marketing internship with Submittable. Today, Keller works as an Audit and Assurance Senior Consultant with Deloitte.
Christopher Maples, ’24
Palo Cedro, CA | Dublin, Ireland
Christopher Maples earned a degree in human biology in 2024 and returned to Northern California to work as a veterinary technician in a companion animal practice. During that time, he volunteered with a local dog rescue organization, supporting fundraising efforts, spay and neuter clinics and community education about animal welfare. In fall 2025, Maples enrolled in the University College Dublin School of Veterinary Medicine through its four-year graduate entry program. He has served as a volunteer class representative, student ambassador and participant on admissions interview panels, advocating for and supporting fellow students. This summer, Maples will begin serving as coordinator of the Big Sibling Program, which pairs incoming students with second-year veterinary students from similar backgrounds. The program provides mentorship and support as students navigate the challenges of moving abroad and adapting to a demanding academic environment.
Eliza McRae, ’26
Helena, MT | Missoula, MT
Eliza McRae earned a Master of Social Work from UM in 2026. Throughout her time at the university, she demonstrated an exceptional commitment to serving vulnerable populations through social work and direct care. McRae spent several years working at the Poverello Center, where she provided support and care for individuals experiencing homelessness. Her work reflected strong leadership, compassion and dedication to community service. She continues that commitment today through her work at Watson Children’s Shelter, where she provides direct care and support for children and youth facing crisis and instability.
Roger Moore, ’24
Boise, ID | Escondido, CA
Roger Moore earned a degree in parks, tourism and recreation management, with a minor in communication studies and a certificate from the Franke Global Leadership Initiative. He currently serves as a park ranger for the city of Escondido, where he supports park safety and helps ensure public spaces remain accessible, welcoming and well maintained for visitors. Moore is committed to public service and to expanding recreational opportunities for diverse user groups. He hopes to continue growing as a leader in the parks and recreation profession while representing UM with pride.
Carter Morley, ’23
Anaconda, MT | Missoula, MT
A fifth-generation Montanan, Carter Morley graduated summa cum laude from UM with a degree in environmental science and sustainability, concentrating in resource conservation, and a certificate in GIS science and technology. Morley grew up hunting, fishing and exploring Montana’s public lands and waters, experiences that inspired his career path. He currently serves as access program manager for the Public Land/Water Access Association, where he investigates public access issues across Montana. His work takes him throughout the state, collaborating with county governments, state and federal agencies, landowners, elected officials, sportsmen and women, recreationists and local communities to protect and expand public access opportunities. His work addresses issues ranging from public roads and stream access to land transfers and evolving legal and policy questions surrounding corner crossing. Morley also educates the public about access rights through writing, presentations, outreach efforts, community events and policy engagement.
Zachery Rambur-Craig, ’25
Baker, MT | Missoula, MT
Zachery Rambur-Craig earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with an emphasis in social studies broadfield education and completed a Global Leadership Certificate. He recently completed his first year as a social studies teacher at Big Sky High School in Missoula, where his passion for education continues to grow. Rambur-Craig credits UM with providing the foundation that helped launch his teaching career. Serving the Missoula community as an educator has been deeply rewarding for Rambur-Craig, and he looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact on students in the years ahead.
Lauren Schulte, ’26
Spokane, WA | Missoula, MT
Lauren Schulte studied psychology and climate change studies at UM and was a Presidential Leadership Scholar in the Davidson Honors College. As a student, she served as co-coordinator of UM Advocates, a well-being support coach with Curry Health Center, a Davidson Honors College ambassador and peer mentor and media manager for the Climate Change Studies Program. She also worked as an undergraduate research assistant in the laboratories of Dr. Bryan Cochran and Dr. Rachel Williamson. This summer, Schulte is returning for her second season with Missoula Parks and Recreation, where she leads adventure camps for local youth. As UM’s first recipient of the Project Horseshoe Farm Fellowship, she will serve as a health care intern in Greensboro, Alabama, this fall.
Chris Shields, ’25
East Helena, MT | Missoula, MT
Chris Shields graduated from UM in 2025 with degrees in journalism and digital filmmaking, along with a certificate in documentary filmmaking. A full-time freelance filmmaker, Shields specializes in documentary storytelling that highlights local artists and underrepresented voices. Since graduating, he has contributed to television productions, music videos, documentaries, advertising campaigns, short films, concert films and social media projects. His work has been featured at film festivals throughout Montana and has received recognition at the independent film level.
Juhi Singh, ’23
Delhi, India | Missoula, MT
Juhi Singh graduated from UM with degrees in English literature, psychology and creative writing, earning University Honors distinction. She completed 150 credits in four years while contributing to multiple linguistics and psychology research laboratories. Singh also collaborated with the Big Sky Aphasia Program, where she developed a case study on a bilingual aphasia patient and explored differences in bilingual aphasia outcomes and treatment. She is joining the Spectrum Discovery Area at the Missoula Public Library as an outreach educator. In this role, Singh will travel to schools throughout Montana, sharing her research and inspiring students of all ages to develop a passion for science.
Anney Sokoloski, ’24
Billings, MT | Missoula, MT
Anney Sokoloski graduated with honors from UM earning a degree in management information systems and a minor in communication studies. She joined Pathlabs in 2025 and now serves as a senior account associate. Drawing on her background in business, technology and communication, Sokoloski helps support client relationships and account success. She has earned recognition within Pathlabs for her consistency, positive communication style and commitment to exceeding expectations.
Emmy Sundby, ’22
Rapid City, SD | Missoula, MT
Emmy Sundby graduated from UM with a degree in health and human performance while competing on the Griz women’s golf team. Following graduation, she took a gap year to pursue semi-professional golf and earned her Titleist Performance Institute Level 1 certification while applying to physical therapy programs. She is currently completing her third year in UM’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program and serves as a graduate assistant and assistant coach for the Griz women’s golf team. Sundby values the opportunity to give back to a program that helped shape both her academic and athletic journey. After earning her doctorate, she plans to remain in Missoula and support the health, performance and long-term well-being of golfers throughout the community.
Skyleigh Thompson, ’24
Kalispell, MT | Missoula, MT
Skyleigh Thompson starred on the Griz women’s soccer team, earning All-Big Sky and All-Region honors while obtaining a degree in finance from UM. She currently works as a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Missoula. Although early in her career, Thompson brings a perspective shaped by discipline, resilience and a long-term mindset developed during her time at UM. In her role, she works closely with clients to help them navigate financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Outside of her professional work, Thompson remains active in the Missoula community as head coach of the Missoula Surf 2012 girls soccer team. She values the opportunity to mentor young athletes and help shape the next generation of leaders.
Matthew Tryan, ’23
Billings, MT | Minneapolis, MN
Matthew Tryan graduated from UM with a background in journalism and documentary filmmaking. Originally from Montana and now based in Minneapolis, he has built a career as a commercial editor, contributing to advertising and branded-content projects for regional and national clients. Alongside his professional work, Tryan continues to pursue independent documentary projects focused on people, communities and the power of storytelling. He remains grateful for the mentors, collaborators and communities that have helped shape his career and creative journey.
Buddy Wilson, ’26
Eden, NC | Cambridge, MA
Buddy Wilson graduated with a degree in environmental science. During his time at UM, he served as ASUM student body president, an Army ROTC leader, a Davidson Honors College Leadership Roundtable member and the university’s representative to the Western Regional Honors Council. A Rhodes Scholarship finalist and global scholar, Wilson will attend Harvard Law School this fall before pursuing a career as an Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps officer.
Liv Wilson, ’24
Kalispell, MT | Missoula, MT
Liv Wilson graduated from UM with degrees in marketing and management and entrepreneurship, along with a certificate in entertainment management as a Presidential Leadership Scholar. She served as the UM Advocate Coordinator, Davidson Honors College Ambassador, Student Advisor in the College of Business and worked as a marketing intern for Grizzly Athletics. After graduation, she completed a Master of Marketing from Vanderbilt University and gained professional experience as a public relations intern at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Those experiences strengthened her creative and strategic skill set and prepared her for her current role as marketing and communications manager at Curry Health Center. Inspired by her connection to UM and the Missoula community, Wilson returned to Montana to serve the campus that helped shape her future. In her role, she brings thoughtful, student-centered approaches to health care communications, challenging traditional methods and finding new ways to connect with students. Her goal is to make health care information more approachable, engaging and relevant, helping reduce barriers to care and foster a healthier campus community.