Just a Small Town Girl…
I was born and raised in Anaconda, Montana. My childhood in Anaconda consisted of riding my bike until the streetlights came on. Getting along with your neighbor was a necessity in case you had to borrow a random tool or a cup of sugar. My parents taught me the value of honesty, integrity, and family. The University of Montana called my name in 1987 and I have lived in Missoula ever since.
Blame it All on my Roots…
I’m a second-generation American, and I am grateful every day for the sheer luck to be born in this beautiful state. My dad served in World War II. Therefore, I can’t quite adequately express my gratitude to those who serve our country. My mother was a proud Irish lass, she had the most caring heart and I inherited her gift of the gab. My tenacity and work ethic stems from growing up in a tough, blue-collar community where heritage defined us.
Teacher, Teacher Can You Teach Me?
In 1994 I was lucky enough to land a teaching job in Florence, Montana which blossomed into a 30 year career in education. My job as a teacher requires me to be a good listener, be a problem solver and treat every student and adult with respect. I am blessed to have a job that I love and where I receive love in return. I was humbly honored with the Gold Star Award in 2018. In 2023, I received the distinction of best K-12 teacher through the annual “Best of Missoula” campaign.
Union Strong - It Goes Like it Goes
As soon as I became a teacher, I joined my local, state, and national union. In my career at Florence, I have served as the building representative, vice president, and president of our local union. I’ve been fortunate enough to attend many trainings through our state union, Montana Federation of Public Employees (the largest and most powerful union in our state), and recently I was honored to become a McGarvey scholar. My passion for the protections the union provides runs deep as my ancestors fought hard for the rights of the workers in Montana.
Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Ole Days
When I turned 24, as I was beginning my career, my 62-year-old mother was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. Based on her symptoms an “expert in the field” said we should find a nursing care facility for my mom because she would not be able to live at home. From that day forward, one of my purposes in life was to prove that “expert” wrong. I became my mother’s healthcare advocate, ensuring she remained in her home for the next 20 years. She lived out her days happily with dignity and comfort. I was able to provide the same care and support for my father as he declined in his later years. Taking care of my parents is the greatest gift and honor I have ever known.
I’ll Be There for You
My life is filled with many loving friends and family members whom I love with all of my heart. My husband Jason is a small business owner in Missoula and we are the proud parents of two cats, Chloe and Blackberry. Jason and I enjoy camping, hiking, and cooking fine meals for our friends. I am blessed to be part of a group of Anaconda girls who exemplify the definition of loyalty, kindness, and fun. The connections that I’ve made with the people I’ve met along my life’s journey fill my heart with joy and bring satisfaction to my days. I’m a huge Griz fan and I love the snowy football games best.
Why Butterflies and Insects?
Two words… Byron Weber. I met Byron while teaching at Florence School and we carpooled together for 14 years. During the many miles traveled on Highway 93, Byron shared with me his great love of nature and the importance of teaching our students about the environment. Byron nurtured the naturalist in all of us. One of Byron’s dreams was to create a butterfly house and insectarium in Missoula. Sadly, Byron didn’t get to see his dream realized as he passed away in 2010 of progressive lymphoma. When Byron died, I joined the Board of Directors for the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium to ensure Byron’s dream would come true. For the past 14 years, I have worked tirelessly through volunteering, educating, and fundraising for this amazing facility. In December of 2023, we celebrated the grand opening the permanent facility on the Missoula County fairgrounds. The building houses a wide variety of arthropods, butterflies, and the Byron Weber Classroom named in his memory. It is the culmination of an idea that metamorphosed in the mind of my beloved friend, “The Bug Guy.”
