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HAMILTON, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen joined community leaders and health care professionals in Hamilton to celebrate the ribbon cutting and grand opening of Partners in Home Care’s new location. Secretary Jacobsen praised the organization’s continued growth in western Montana and highlighted what it means for any Montana business to celebrate a grand opening.

“It’s always exciting to see Montana businesses open, grow, and invest in our communities, and it’s an honor to assist them on that journey,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Partners in Home Care is expanding important services for families in the Bitterroot Valley, and I’m grateful for the caregivers, nurses, and staff who are making a difference for patients every single day. It was an honor to be part of such a special celebration.”

“In a state as large and rural as Montana, access to quality health care can be a significant challenge, and that’s exactly why organizations like Partners in Home Care are so important,” she added.

Secretary Jacobsen has been a special guest at numerous grand opening events, including several in western Montana. Under her leadership, the Secretary of State’s Office has cut new business registration fees in half, waived annual report filing fees for all Montana businesses, and removed red tape so entrepreneurs can spend more time serving their customers and less time navigating paperwork and government bureaucracy.

“As Secretary of State, my priority has been to support Montana’s job creators by lowering costs and streamlining the process to start and maintain a business,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “From Hamilton and communities across western Montana to the Hi-Line and Badlands country, I’ll continue working to ensure it’s as easy as possible to open your doors, create important jobs, and grow right here in the Treasure State.”

Secretary Jacobsen thanked the Partners in Home Care team, including Dyana Canavan and Corin Schneider, as well as the community leaders and members of the public who joined the grand opening celebration.

Established in 1987, Partners in Home Care provides home-based health care to families and neighbors in the Bitterroot and western Montana. With locations in Hamilton, Missoula, and Ronan, Partners in Home Care provides services for hospice, home health, infusion, palliative care, and more.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last year, Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen was recognized by peers across the country as a leader in business services. This week, Secretary Jacobsen officially took her place as co-chair of the Business Services Committee for the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), formally beginning her leadership role representing Montana on the national stage.

After being personally recognized by her peers for making it easier to do business in Montana, Secretary Jacobsen will guide conversations on how states can better serve businesses through modern, efficient filing and registration practices.

“In Montana, I have focused on cutting fees, removing red tape, and making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses, and I’m excited to share those successes with my colleagues across the country,” said Secretary Jacobsen.

Under Secretary Jacobsen’s leadership, Montana has recorded historic levels of new business registrations each year she has been in office, with tens of thousands of new businesses choosing to register in the state each year. Since taking office, Secretary Jacobsen has cut registration fees in half for new Montana businesses, eliminated several other fees, and provided fee waivers for annual reports, saving Montana businesses millions of dollars and helping them reinvest in jobs and local communities.

Secretary Jacobsen’s reforms and pro-business initiatives were recognized by the Mountain States Policy Center, which presented her with its Elevation Award for advancing free-market principles and innovative policy solutions. As NASS Business Services Committee co-chair, she will work with other secretaries of state on best practices for corporate registrations, electronic business filings, notarizations, Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings, and other key business services.

“I look forward to continuing to partner with Montana’s business community while working with my national peers to promote policies that support innovation, investment, and long-term growth,” Secretary Jacobsen said. “Montana’s business climate is strong, and I’m proud to help share our story and learn from others as we keep improving the way we serve businesses.”

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HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen was honored to be a keynote speaker during the 2026 Montana Chamber of Commerce Business Days at the Capitol. 

Secretary Jacobsen’s remarks highlighted another record year of new business registrations across the state, marking the fifth consecutive year of record-breaking growth under her leadership. Thousands of new Montana entrepreneurs once again chose to register their businesses through the Secretary of State’s Office in 2025, continuing a trend of robust business expansion and a thriving economy. 

“The record number of new business registrations speaks to the strength, innovation, and hard work of Montanans,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “It’s inspiring to see Montana businesses continue to grow year after year, and our office remains committed to providing the best customer service to help them succeed.” 

Secretary Jacobsen also highlighted increased efficiencies in the Secretary of State’s Office under her leadership, including faster processing times and a modernized online filing system. She also discussed her decision to support Montana’s business community by cutting registration fees in half for new Montana businesses, eliminating unnecessary fees, and removing bureaucratic hurdles to allow businesses to focus on growing and serving their communities. 

“Montana’s business future is every bit as bright as the people who are building it, and I’m excited about the partnership we’ve built between my office and the business community,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “That partnership is how we keep Montana a place where businesses, and the people behind them, can thrive, grow, and lead.” 

Business Days at the Capitol brings together business leaders, legislators, and state officials to discuss key issues impacting Montana’s economy and communities. The event is hosted by the Montana Chamber of Commerce and serves as one of the premier gatherings of Montana’s business community each year. 

For more information about the Secretary of State’s Office and resources for Montana businesses, visit sosmt.gov/business. 

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Editor’s Note: As Montanans prepare to choose their side in the Montana-Montana State athletic rivalry, which will be renewed on the football field in Saturday’s FCS National Semifinal, Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen is looking back at the history of the game – the legendary performances, the game-changing moments, and the Hall of Famers – in her Cat-Griz Classics series.

HELENA, Mont. — “Heroes get remembered, but legends never die.”

Those seven simple words were made famous in the 1990s cult classic, The Sandlot, but the idea of the phrase lives on today. And there’s no better example in Montana than looking to the history of the Cat-Griz football rivalry.

In the 100-plus-year history of the Brawl of the Wild, dozens of players have left their mark, etching their name into the chapters of the state’s greatest rivalry.

Secretary Christi Jacobsen recalls those Legends of the Brawl in the latest edition of her Cat-Griz Classics series. (Note: Several players were previously featured for their inductions into the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame and will not be included in this list.)

Tommy Mellott, Montana State Quarterback

Tommy Mellott enjoyed a highly decorated career as the quarterback for the Montana State Bobcats, becoming one of the most accomplished players in program history. He led MSU to two FCS National Championship Game appearances, finished with top-five all-time school marks in both passing and rushing, and landed in the Bobcat record books in wins and touchdowns before graduating. In his senior season he captured the 2024 Walter Payton Award as the nation’s top FCS offensive player along with consensus All-America and All-Big Sky Conference honors, helping the Bobcats to an undefeated regular season. Mellott’s success on and off the field also included major scholar-athlete distinctions, and he was selected in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Las Vegas Raiders.

John Edwards, Montana Quarterback

John Edwards enjoyed an outstanding football career with the Montana Grizzlies, distinguished by both elite production and a winning mentality. After leading Billings West High School to its first state championship in 1997, Edwards carried that success to Montana, passing for more than 6,700 yards and totaling more than 60 scores during his career. He guided the Grizzlies to 14 consecutive wins in 2001, capped by a 13-6 victory over Furman in the national championship game.

Troy Andersen, Montana State Running Back/Quarterback/Linebacker

Troy Andersen enjoyed an exceptional and highly versatile football career at Montana State, starring at multiple positions and earning national recognition for his play and leadership. Over his career he was a Big Sky Freshman of the Year, All-America at both quarterback and linebacker, and capped it by being named the FCS ADA National Defensive Player of the Year as a senior, showcasing his impact on both sides of the ball. Andersen’s athleticism also put him high on MSU’s record lists in rushing touchdowns and yards, and he was a two-time team captain respected for his toughness and football IQ. His ability to excel in so many roles made him one of the most unique and celebrated players in Bobcat history. Andersen is currently an NFL linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons.

Chase Reynolds, Montana Running Back

Chase Reynolds enjoyed a legendary career with Montana football from 2006–2010, emerging from small-school 8-man roots in Drummond to become one of the greatest running backs in Grizzly history. He still holds school records for career rushing touchdowns (52) and total touchdowns (59) while finishing second all-time in rushing yards with 4,067, just three yards shy of the program record. Reynolds was a driving force on Grizzly teams that went 46–8 overall, won three Big Sky titles, and made back-to-back national championship game appearances, going 3–1 against Montana State during his career. A two-time Walter Payton Award finalist, two-time All-American, and multiple team MVP and positional award winner, Reynolds left his name throughout the record book and set the standard for toughness, productivity, and leadership at Montana.

Marc Mariani, Montana Receiver

Marc Mariani’s career at Montana stands as one of the most accomplished in Grizzly and Big Sky history, rising from a walk-on from Havre to an elite receiver and return specialist. He set numerous school records, including single-season receiving yards (1,479 in 2009), career receiving yards (3,018), receiving touchdowns (29), and all-purpose yards (5,441), while also establishing conference marks in punt and kick return excellence. Mariani delivered some of the most iconic plays in program history, including a 94-yard punt return that tied a Big Sky record and a 98-yard kickoff return that ignited a historic comeback in 2009. A multi-time All-American, two-time first-team All-Big Sky selection, and team MVP, Mariani capped his Grizzly career before being drafted by the Tennessee Titans and going on to earn Pro Bowl and All-Pro recognition in the NFL.

Tanner Bleskin, Montana State Receiver

Tanner Bleskin enjoyed an outstanding career at Montana State, establishing himself as one of the most productive and dependable receivers in program history. After emerging with 30 catches in 2011, he earned second-team All-Big Sky honors in 2012 (66 receptions, 928 yards, 4 touchdowns) and capped his senior season with 64 receptions for 969 yards and three touchdowns, finishing as a two-time all-conference selection. Bleskin set Montana State records for career receptions (193) and receiving yards (2,816) while helping the Bobcats win at least a share of Big Sky titles in 2010, 2011, and 2012. He also excelled off the field, earning CSC Academic All-America honors and exemplifying the student-athlete ideal.

Kroy Bierman, Montana Defensive Line

Kroy Biermann enjoyed a dominant career at Montana, developing into one of the most feared defensive players in Big Sky history. After modest beginnings as a freshman, he steadily improved, recording 76 tackles, 14 for loss, and 11 sacks as a junior in 2006, earning First Team All-Big Sky honors. His senior season in 2007 was historic, as he captured Big Sky Defensive MVP and the Buck Buchanan Award with 15 sacks, 17 tackles for loss, and five forced fumbles. Biermann finished his career with 33 sacks, fourth all-time in conference history, 192 total tackles, and 10 forced fumbles, cementing his legacy as one of Montana’s greatest defenders. He was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fifth round of the NFL Draft.

Dane Fletcher, Montana State Defensive Line

Dane Fletcher had a standout career at Montana State, emerging from a special teams contributor as a freshman in 2006 to one of the most dominant defensive players in Bobcat history. As a starting defensive lineman, he led the Big Sky in tackles-for-loss multiple seasons, earning First Team All-America honors and becoming Montana State’s third Big Sky Defensive MVP of the decade. Fletcher’s senior season featured 17 tackles-for-loss—the most in the conference and second in the FCS—and 6.5 sacks despite playing only nine games, along with multiple blocked kicks. Known for his relentless work ethic and game-changing plays, he ranks among MSU’s all-time leaders in tackles-for-loss. After college, Fletcher played in the NFL with the New England Patriots, including a Super Bowl XLVI appearance, before retiring and returning to Bozeman to run his training facility, The Pitt.

Brad Daly, Montana State Defensive Line

Brad Daly enjoyed a remarkable career at Montana State, becoming one of the most feared defensive players in program history. His standout 2013 season, highlighted by 14 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss, earned him the Buck Buchanan Award as the nation’s top FCS defensive player, Big Sky MVP honors, and First Team All-America recognition. Daly finished his career with 34 sacks, which ranked fourth in school history, and joined his father J. and brother Bobby as MSU All-Americans and team captains. Daly’s relentless pursuit and consistent play cemented his legacy as one of Montana State’s all-time defensive stars.

Caleb Schreibeis, Montana State Defensive Line

A late bloomer, Caleb Schreibeis became one of the premier defensive stars in the Big Sky Conference. After showing significant promise as a junior with seven sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and 64 total tackles, he exploded in his senior season, leading the conference with 12.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss while topping the nation with eight forced fumbles. His dominant play helped Montana State capture a share of its third consecutive Big Sky Championship and secure a third straight playoff appearance. For his exceptional performance, Schreibeis earned All-Big Sky First Team honors and was awarded the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award as the nation’s top FCS defensive player.

Jordan Tripp, Montana Linebacker

Jordan Tripp had an outstanding career with the Montana Grizzlies, standing out as a rare four-year starter and five-time letterman. He finished his career fourth in school history with 335 tackles and set a school record with 10 fumble recoveries, starting 38 of 53 games, including 24 consecutive starts during his junior and senior seasons. As a senior, Tripp recorded 100 tackles, tied for the team lead with three interceptions, and earned first-team All-Big Sky and All-America honors for the second consecutive year. He also served as co-captain on defense, won the Pat Norwood Award for Most Inspirational Player, and was a two-time finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award, finishing 10th in voting both seasons.

Bobby Daly, Montana State Linebacker

Bobby Daly enjoyed an exceptional career at Montana State, emerging as one of the most dominant linebackers in program history after a breakout freshman season during the Bobcats’ 2005 Big Sky championship run. A former defensive end at Helena Capital, Daly quickly became a tackling machine, leading the conference with 121 tackles in 2006 and following it with an even stronger 2007 campaign in which he led the Big Sky and ranked fourth nationally with 136 tackles. He earned First Team All-Big Sky and All-America honors in 2007, consistently posting double-digit tackle performances while anchoring the Bobcat defense. Despite injuries as a senior, Daly finished his career as a two-time All-American, a second-generation team captain, and the fourth-leading tackler in Montana State history, cementing his legacy as one of the program’s all-time greats.

Colt Anderson, Montana Defensive Back

Colt Anderson enjoyed a standout career at Montana from 2006–2008, emerging as one of the Grizzlies’ premier defensive leaders and a model walk-on success story. A two-time All-American and three-time First Team All-Big Sky selection, Anderson helped lead Montana to a 37-5 record during his career, including a run to the 2008 national championship game. Known for his physicality and consistency, he recorded 313 career tackles, ranking among the top 10 in program history. Anderson earned multiple team honors, including the Steve Carlson MVP, Tony Barbour Award, and Golden Helmet Award. Anderson also excelled academically, earning Academic All-Big Sky honors in 2008. Following his collegiate career, he played nine seasons in the NFL and transitioned into the coaching ranks.

Vince Huntsberger, Montana Defensive Back

Vince Huntsberger enjoyed a legendary career with the Montana Grizzlies, establishing himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in program history. A durable and consistent leader, he started 55 consecutive games and finished as Montana’s all-time leading tackler with 469 career stops, helping the Griz win four Big Sky titles and the 2001 Division I-AA National Championship, earning MVP honors in the title game. Huntsberger was a two-time Big Sky Defensive MVP, an eight-time All-American, and the 2001 Buck Buchanan Award runner-up, and he even received a Heisman vote for his remarkable impact on the field. Beyond football, he excelled academically, earning a 3.87 GPA in biology/pre-med, three Academic All-America selections, and recognition as a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy. His combination of athletic excellence, leadership, and academic achievement cemented Huntsberger as one of the greatest Grizzlies of all time.

Shann Schillinger, Montana Defensive Back

Shann Schillinger was a standout defensive player for the Montana Grizzlies, known for his ball‑hawking ability and consistent production from the secondary. Over his career he appeared in 57 games, finishing in the top 20 in school history with 257 career tackles and 10 interceptions. Schillinger was a key contributor on Griz defenses that reached the FCS National Championship game and earned first‑team All‑Big Sky honors in 2009, while also being recognized with team awards for his leadership and effort. His combination of durability, tackling, and turnover production made him one of the more versatile and impactful defensive backs in Montana’s recent history.

Kane Ioane, Montana State Defensive Back

Kane Ioane enjoyed a legendary career at Montana State, earning recognition as one of the greatest defensive players in Big Sky history. Ioane would become the first and only Bobcat to be named All-American four times. He helped transform the program from an 0‑11 team during his freshman season into back-to-back Big Sky champions in 2002 and 2003, ending a 16-year losing streak to Montana along the way. Ioane finished his career with 471 tackles, second all-time in Big Sky history, along with 10 interceptions and five fumble recoveries, earning league Defensive Player of the Year honors as a senior. His leadership, playmaking ability, and consistency made him the cornerstone of Montana State’s defense, and one of the Bobcats’ favorite sons.

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Editor’s Note: As Montanans prepare to choose their side in the Montana-Montana State athletic rivalry, which will be renewed on the football field in Saturday’s FCS National Semifinal, Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen is looking back at the history of the game – the legendary performances, the game-changing moments, and the Hall of Famers – in her Cat-Griz Classics series.

HELENA, Mont. — The University of Montana and Montana State football programs have boasted incredible athletes throughout their histories, from national-championship-winning quarterbacks to all-American defensive stalwarts to NFL-caliber talents.

Only a select few from those star-studded lists have earned the honor of entering the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame. Established in 2020, the Big Sky’s Hall of Fame honors those who “made outstanding contributions to Big Sky athletics as a student-athlete, coach and/or administrator.”

Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen highlights the Hall of Famers in today’s Cat-Griz Classics.

Big Sky Conference Football Hall of Fame
Montana and Montana State University (in alphabetical order)

Dave Dickenson – Montana Grizzlies Quarterback (1992-95)

“Super Dave” Dickenson is one of the most recognized names in FCS (Division I-AA) football following a record-setting career under center at UM. The former Great Falls CMR standout was a three-time all-Big Sky Conference selection, earning the league’s offensive MVP honors three times. He was also a three-time all-American and collected the Walter Payton Award as the nation’s best FCS (I-AA) player in 1995. That season, Dickenson and his Griz teammates captured the national championship, defeating Marshall and its future NFL quarterback, Chad Pennington, 22-20. Dickenson led a late drive that ended in Andy Larson’s game-winning field goal with under a minute to play. Dickenson spent a decade in the Canadian Football League, collecting the Most Outstanding Player Award in 2000. He was on five Grey Cup Championship teams and was named the game’s MVP in 2006. Dickenson became a head coach in the CFL and has continued his winning ways, earning accolades and a championship. In addition to being inducted into the University of Montana and Big Sky Conference Halls of Fame, Dickenson has also been inducted into the Montana Football, CFL, and College Football Halls of Fame.

Tim Hauck – Montana Grizzlies Safety (1987-89)

One of Montana’s greatest all-time players, Tim Hauck is now on the sidelines offering tutelage to the next wave of Grizzlies. The Big Timber native began his Grizzly football career in the late 1980s and quickly made an impact. Hauck was a first-team all-Big Sky Conference selection in 1988 and 1989, capturing the league’s Defensive MVP honors each season. He was also selected to the Associated Press and Kodak All-American teams in those two seasons. Hauck became the University of Montana’s first Walter Payton Award finalist in 1989. He was one of the top tacklers in UM and Big Sky history and still holds the Grizzlies’ record with 25 tackles in a game. He also owns the league record with seven blocked extra points, including four in one season. After representing the University of Montana in the Japan Bowl All-Star Game, Hauck spent more than a decade in the NFL, finishing with 284 career tackles, 13 pass deflections, five fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles, and an interception. Following his playing career, Hauck ventured into coaching at both the college and professional levels. As a member of the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive staff, Hauck helped the team to a 41-33 Super Bowl victory in February 2018. He has mentored numerous Grizzlies to all-conference and all-America honors, and he recently helped lead the program to the FCS National Championship game. Hauck is a 2017 inductee into the Montana Football Hall of Fame.

Allyn “Sonny” Holland – Montana State Bobcats player (1957-59) / Coach (1971-77)

Butte-native Sonny Holland enjoyed one of the greatest playing and coaching careers as a member of the Bobcats. A two-way player, Holland suited up on offense and defense, leading MSU to the 1956 national championship. He was a three-time all-American in the late 1950s, MSU’s first-ever three-time all-American, and played in the East-West Shrine Game in 1959. His number 52 jersey was retired following his playing career, making him the first Bobcat to have his jersey retired. Following his playing career, Holland immediately stepped into the coaching ranks, joining the staff at nearby Bozeman High School. Holland also had coaching stints at Washington State University and Western Montana College (Montana Western), earning Frontier Coach of the Year honors at the latter. Holland returned to Montana State in the 1970s and went on to string together an incredible run with the Bobcats, including conference championships and a magical 1976 season. Two decades after capturing a national title as a player for the Bobcats, Coach Holland guided MSU to the Division II national championship. While he was the head coach for less than a decade, Holland’s impact on Montana State and the football program continued for years to come. In addition to being an integral part of the alumni foundation and offering advice to coaches and players, Holland also worked with the MTN Sports team as an analyst for MSU and Big Sky Conference games. Montana State’s south endzone is named the “Sonny Holland Zone,” and a statue of Holland was erected outside the stadium, becoming part of the tradition on Bobcat gameday. Holland passed away in December 2022 at the age of 84. Montana State fans voted Holland as the school’s “greatest football player of all time,” and he was inducted into the Montana Football Hall of Fame.

Bill Kollar – Montana State Bobcats Defensive Tackle (1971-73)

One of the most decorated all-around Bobcats in history, Kollar achieved success as both a college and professional player, and later became a prominent coach in the NFL. After graduating from high school in Ohio, Kollar landed at Montana State University, where he was named to the First Team All-Big Sky Conference team three times from 1971 to 1973. He became the conference’s first lineman and only the second defensive player to earn a trio of first-team all-conference selections. Kollar was an all-American selection in 1972, leading the Bobcats to the conference title, and he vaulted to the First Team All-America team a season later, collecting more than 100 tackles, three fumble recoveries, and one sack. Kollar earned MVP honors at the 1974 Senior Bowl and joined Sonny Holland, Jan Stenerud, and Don Hass in having his jersey number retired and on display in Bobcat Stadium. A first-round pick of the 1974 NFL Draft, Kollar played for the Bengals and Buccaneers before joining the Tampa Bay coaching staff. Kollar became a mastermind of defensive line coaching, guiding teams across the league to incredible success. Kollar coached in the Super Bowl with the Atlanta Falcons and helped the St. Louis Rams capture the 2001 championship. He mentored a trio of Houston Texans players to Pro Bowl appearances before joining the Denver Broncos nearly a decade ago. Kollar and the Broncos’ defense helped defeat the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50. In addition to being named to the Montana State and Big Sky Conference Halls of Fame, Kollar was inducted into the 2017 Montana Football Hall of Fame, the local hall of fame back home in Ohio, and he was honored with induction into the Senior Bowl Hall of Fame in 2014.

Don Read – Montana Grizzlies Coach (1986-95)

Don Read made a significant impact on college football as the head coach of the Montana Grizzlies from 1986 to 1995. Under his leadership, Montana claimed its first National Championship in 1995 and consistently excelled in the postseason, reaching the semifinals in both 1989 and 1994. Read was recognized for his exceptional coaching ability, earning the AFCA 1-AA Coach of the Year award in 1995, as well as three Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year honors in 1989, 1993, and 1995. He led the Grizzlies to two Big Sky titles and became the program’s all-time winningest coach, amassing an impressive record of 86 wins, including 54 in conference play. (Note: current University of Montana coach Bobby Hauck surpassed Read as the program’s winningest coach). Read guided the team to the playoffs in five of his ten seasons, never had a losing season, and never lost to rival Montana State. A mentor to future stars like Dave Dickenson, Read’s coaching career also included successful tenures at Portland State and in Oregon. Don Read passed away in 2024 at the age of 90, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the world of college football.

Naseby Rhinehart – Montana Grizzlies Athlete/Athletic Trainer (1932-82)

Naseby “Doc” Rhinehart was a pioneering figure in athletics and athletic training at the University of Montana, serving as the head athletic trainer from 1935 to 1982. An exceptional athlete, he earned nine varsity letters in football, basketball, and track, and was named an Honorable Mention all-American in football in 1935. He also won the prestigious Grizzly Cup for outstanding athlete that same year. As Montana’s first athletic trainer, he developed one of the nation’s early athletic training programs and implemented techniques that are still utilized today. His contributions to the field were recognized with inductions into multiple Halls of Fame, including the Helms Athletic Foundation Hall of Fame and the Montana Football Hall of Fame. He also served as a trainer for the United States at the 1979 Pan American Games. Honored with the Distinguished Service Award in 1974, the athletic treatment center at UM now bears his name, reflecting a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

Jan Stenerud – Montana State Bobcats Kicker (1964-66)

Stenerud became a legendary figure in football after an illustrious career that began at Montana State University. As a member of the Bobcats, he made a significant impact as a standout kicker, though his career began as an all-American ski jumper. He quickly found success on the gridiron, and his 59-yard field goal against the University of Montana was an NCAA record. He also set a collegiate best with 82 points in 1966, while collecting a Big Sky Conference record 49 extra points. Following the season, Sporting News named Stenerud the top kicker in the nation with an all-American accolade. Stenerud took his talents to the National Football League, where he became one of the first pure placekickers in the league. His exceptional skills helped lead the Kansas City Chiefs to a Super Bowl IV appearance, and he went on to have a storied career with multiple teams, including the Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings. Over the years, he built a reputation as one of the best kickers in the game, earning three Pro Bowl selections and being named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1970s. Stenerud was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats in both collegiate and professional football. He was also inducted into the Montana Football Hall of Fame, and Montana State retired his jersey number, which is on display in Bobcat Stadium.

*Editor’s note: Information and statistics obtained from the Big Sky Conference, Montana State University, University of Montana, and National Football League. More information about the Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame is available online at https://bigskyconf.com/hof.aspx?type=sport. 

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HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen participated in the American Red Cross of Montana’s Blood Drive on Wednesday in the rotunda of the Montana State Capitol. Secretary Jacobsen and dozens of colleagues donated blood that will save lives across Montana.

“Every blood donation is a lifesaving gift,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Donating blood to the Red Cross of Montana is a donation to our Montana family, friends, and neighbors. I encourage all able Montanans to donate or volunteer their time at a blood drive this holiday season.”

The Red Cross of Montana conducts blood drives statewide, and Wednesday’s event at the State Capitol exceeded the organization’s expectations. More than 40 individuals donated blood, surpassing the Red Cross of Montana’s goal of 30 donations.

In addition to donating blood and saving lives, Secretary Jacobsen participated in a fun “Capitol Showdown” between the Secretary of State’s Office, Governor’s Office, and the Legislative Services team. The Secretary of State’s Office won the competition, and Red Cross officials stated that Secretary Jacobsen completed her blood donation in the fastest time.

“It was great to make a friendly competition while participating in the ultimate gift of donating lifesaving blood,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Thank you to all of the individuals who donated on Wednesday, and thank you to the wonderful Red Cross of Montana team for hosting the event.”

To learn more about donating blood or becoming a volunteer, Secretary Jacobsen encourages Montanans to visit https://www.redcrossblood.org/.

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HELENA, Mont. — Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen joined staff and community members Monday morning to volunteer at Helena Food Share, lending a hand to support local families ahead of the holiday season.

“Helena is incredibly fortunate to have such a well-run and compassionate organization like Helena Food Share,” Secretary Jacobsen said. “It is an invaluable resource to the Helena community, and I’m proud to support its mission.”

Secretary Jacobsen and her staff spent the morning stocking the food shelves, loading groceries into vehicles, and assisting with traffic flow during the drive-through food distribution. The volunteer effort was part of a broader initiative by the Secretary of State’s Office, which also hosted a November food drive that collected and donated 834 pounds of food to Helena Food Share.

“It’s so important to give back, especially this time of year,” Secretary Jacobsen said. “I’m grateful to everyone who donated food and volunteered their time to help make a difference.”

Secretary Jacobsen encourages all Montanans who are able to donate to their local food bank or food share to do so this holiday season.

For information on how to get involved with Helena Food Share, visit helenafoodshare.org.

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HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen partnered with the Trump Administration’s Homeland Security Department to safeguard Montana’s voter rolls and protect the integrity of the state’s elections.

The Montana Election Team will soon verify voters’ citizenship status by comparing the state’s voter registration list with citizenship data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) through the SAVE program.

“Accurate and up-to-date voter rolls are essential for safe, secure, transparent, and accessible elections,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Over the past five years, we have prioritized ensuring Montana’s voter rolls are accurate—requiring election officials to conduct more frequent voter roll maintenance, making it easier for families to cancel a deceased loved one’s voter registration, and reducing the number of undeliverable ballots.”

“Montanans have also made it clear that only citizens should be allowed to vote in our elections,” continued Secretary Jacobsen. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, Montana now has direct access at no cost to citizenship data that previous administrations refused to allow. Every eligible Montanan has the right to have their voice heard at the ballot box, and only those qualified and eligible should cast a ballot in our elections.”

Recent statewide polling shows that Montanans overwhelmingly support efforts to ensure only citizens vote.

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HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen will host Halloween trick-or-treaters at the Montana State Capitol on Friday, October 31, from 4-6 p.m.

Secretary Jacobsen and her colleagues will hand out full-sized candy bars and invite all Montana kids and families to join in the fun. Several other offices and state agencies will participate with Secretary Jacobsen in providing treats.

“I’m excited to share a spooktacular evening with Montanans at the Montana State Capitol,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Come one and all to show off your costumes and enjoy delicious full-sized candy bars. Happy Halloween, Montana!”

Secretary Jacobsen reminds Montana drivers to be alert to children and families as they travel to households around their neighborhood. She also urges trick-or-treaters to be safe when crossing the street, walk in groups with a chaperone, and be cautious of potential cooling temperatures in the evening.