April 8, 2019
The Chancellor’s Leadership Scholars Award is a four-year, full-tuition scholarship awarded to exceptional students residing in the state of Montana who will be attending the University of Montana Western in the fall.
Montana Western is proud to announce the five following high school seniors as the 2019-20 award recipients:
Rilee Gray
Gray grew up in Deer Lodge, Mont. During her junior year of high school, Gray shadowed several medical specialists at her local hospital and was inspired by the services physical therapists provide. She plans to major in either biology or health and human performance at Montana Western with the goal of becoming a pediatric physical therapist in the future.
Erin Watson
Watson is an adventurous soul who enjoys sharing her love of the outdoors with others. An outstanding student at Skyview High School in Billings, Mont., Watson created WINGS, a student mentoring program. In addition, she started Adventure Club which is dedicated to encouraging students to get up and out. Watson plans to get her degree in English and become a high school English teacher.
Hayden Kunhardt
Kunhardt has applied and been accepted into UMW’s Natural Horsemanship program. As a student at Dawson County High School in Glendive, Mont., Kunhardt has a passion for helping others. She is actively involved in Key Club and the National Honor Society. Kunhardt enjoys riding her Tennessee Walking Horses and walking her dogs along the Yellowstone River that flows near her home.
Jayden Winslow
Winslow is Valedictorian of her graduating class at Libby High School in Libby, Mont. A well-rounded athlete, Winslow played volleyball, basketball and softball while in high school. She will continue her athletic career at UMW as a member of the women’s basketball team. She plans to pursue a degree in biology and then further her education to one day become a pharmacist.
Jessica Delong
A soon-to-be graduate of Hamilton High School, Delong had a one-year internship with a local veterinarian during her junior year. The experience sparked a passion and Delong plans to one day become a veterinarian herself. The first steps of her educational journey will be at Montana Western and she feels honored to be chosen for such a prestigious award.
“We look forward to welcoming these high-achieving students to Montana Western,” said Chancellor Beth Weatherby. “They are fascinating, talented individuals who will add so much to our community. Congratulations to all five recipients of this well-deserved award that recognizes leadership and scholarship.”
