Gov. Gianforte Recognizes Billings Students With Spirit of Montana Award

• March 02 2022

BILLINGS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today presented his Spirit of Montana award to middle school students at Elysian School in Billings for their work this winter to support health care heroes in their community.

“Over the last two years, Montana’s health care workers have been working around-the-clock to serve, treat, and care for Montanans,” Gov. Gianforte said to the students in a school-wide assembly. “You recognized their extraordinary effort, and you stepped up to make a difference.”

 Gov. and First Lady Gianforte with Elysian School students after presenting them with his Spirit of Montana award

In December 2021, the Lighthouse Committee, a student-led leadership group at Elysian School, came together to prepare gift bags and write encouraging notes for about 50 nurses at Billings Clinic and St. Vincent Healthcare. The gift bags were delivered to nurses ahead of the holidays.

Speaking to the students, the governor continued, “You not only made a difference in the lives of these nurses, but also your community, inspiring a spirit of giving during the holiday season.”

“We’re very excited the governor came to Elysian school to present the Spirit of Montana award and give accolades for our middle school students for their random act of kindness,” Elysian School principal Ryan Truscott said. “To have a visit from the governor means so much to our student body, our school, and the individual students who took the time to help our health care workers get through tough times at both hospitals.”

The governor’s Spirit of Montana award recognizes Montanans for their accomplishments, dedication, or service. Gov. Gianforte encourages Montanans to nominate members of their community for the Spirit of Montana award by contacting his office at (406) 444-3111 or submitting their nominee online at https://governor.mt.gov/Spirit-of-Montana-Award.

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