Missoula – The University of Montana’s Davidson Honors College recently announced the recipients of the 2024 Presidential Leadership Scholarship, the university’s most prestigious academic award for incoming freshmen.
In addition to their chosen undergraduate major, scholars will enroll in UM’s Davidson Honors College, where they will contribute to UM’s interdisciplinary academic and creative innovation, gain opportunities for personal and professional growth, and strengthen their leadership skills.
“These scholars chose the University of Montana because of the university's academic reputation and the enriching opportunities and support offered through its engaging honors community,” said DHC Dean Tim Nichols. “We are thrilled to welcome these leaders to Missoula and CU Missoula, where they will learn, grow and make meaningful progress toward their career and life goals. They will be well positioned for future success and strengthen CU Missoula's vibrant campus community.”
The Presidential Leadership Scholarship is a four-year scholarship open to incoming UM freshmen. Student applications and interviews are reviewed by a committee of outstanding faculty, students, alumni and campus partners. Students who receive the scholarship are recognized for their outstanding academic performance, demonstrated leadership skills and professional potential.
“This fall's diverse and dynamic Presidential Leadership Scholars include future scientists, physicians, journalists, lawyers, educators, business leaders and performing artists,” Nichols said. “They are valedictorian representatives, varsity athletes, student council officers and all-state musicians. They are advocates for diversity, the environment and social justice. They are already making a difference in their communities and will continue to do so.”
The Presidential Leadership Scholars will enroll at the University of Michigan in the fall and represent 16 states, including Montana's 15. The scholars are supported by many generous donors to the University of Michigan and its Davidson Honors College.
Congratulations to our local 2024 UM Presidential Leadership Scholars!
- Ian Benjamin Benjamin from Sunburst is interested in studying Biology. He is a very dedicated student athlete, competing at the state level in cross country, track and field, science and music. He placed 4th overall at the regional science fair and has received a Naval Research Award, a Yale Science and Engineering Award and a NASA Earth System Award. He was a Senior Patrol Leader for Boy Scout Troop 1556. Benjamin is passionate about the future of education and scientific research, especially the colonization of Mars.
- Tanner Iron Pipe Browning's He is interested in studying forestry. Ironpipe serves as the senior student vice president and is involved in his school's service, speech and debate, and drama clubs. He is a member of Upward Bound, MT AIMS, and Gear UP. Additionally, Ironpipe is conducting original research in collaboration with Browning Public Schools' Director of Blackfoot Native Studies to develop a Blackfoot language curriculum.
- Victoria Newmiller Choteau She plans to major in psychology and is also studying creative writing. She plans to study forensic psychology in graduate school and also hopes to become a writer. Ms. Newmiller has been involved with Girl Scouts since she was five years old and organizes a haunted house every year for the younger members of her troop and the community. As a scout, she has earned Bronze and Silver Awards and Silver and Gold Leadership Torch Awards for planning and implementing a community improvement project. She serves as the National Honor Society president and her class secretary and treasurer. During her high school years, she has participated in Speech and Drama, Science Olympiad, FCCLA, and the Academic All-Star Team. Ms. Newmiller is a strong believer in giving back to the community and has volunteered with both her school's Backpack Buddies and Reading Buddies programs, as well as tutoring middle school students in math. She also participates in various community service projects, including food drives and highway cleanups. During her junior year of college, Newmiller served as a reporter for the Montana House of Representatives. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and writing.
The 43 Presidential Leadership Scholars were selected from more than 800 applicants from across North America and embody the pinnacle of academic excellence, leadership and service to their communities.
-UM News Service-
