UM Names Incoming Presidential Leadership Scholars for Fall 2026

MISSOULA – The Davidson Honors College at the University of Montana recently announced recipients of the 2026 Presidential Leadership Scholarship, the University's most prestigious academic recognition for incoming students. 

The 28 Presidential Leadership Scholars were chosen from a competitive pool of applicants from across North America and represent the pinnacle of academic excellence, leadership and service to the community.

The scholars will enroll in UM’s Davidson Honors College alongside their chosen undergraduate disciplines. They will contribute to interdisciplinary scholarly and creative innovation at UM, garner personal and professional development opportunities, and enhance their leadership skills.

“These scholars chose to attend the University of Montana because of the institution’s academic reputation and the enhanced opportunities and support offered through our engaging honors community,” said Tim Nichols, the DHC dean. “We are thrilled to welcome these leaders to Missoula and UM, where they will learn, grow and make meaningful progress toward their career and life goals. They will be well-positioned for future success and will strengthen UM's vibrant campus community.”

The Presidential Leadership Scholarship is a four-year scholarship for incoming UM students. Student applications and interviews are reviewed by a committee of honors faculty, students, alumni and campus partners. Student recipients are recognized for their meritorious academic achievements, demonstrated leadership skills and professional potential.

“This fall’s diverse and dynamic class of Presidential Leadership Scholars includes future scientists, physicians, researchers, environmentalists, musicians, journalists and lawyers,” Nichols said. “They are valedictorians and varsity athletes, student council officers and all-state musicians. They already have and will continue to make a difference in their communities.”

The scholars will enroll at UM in the fall and represent eight states, including 15 students from Montana. The scholars are supported by many generous donors to UM and its Davidson Honors College.

A full listing of the 2026 UM Presidential Leadership Scholars follows: 

Alaska 

Rosie Conway, of Anchorage, Alaska, developed an interest in the medical field through a mentorship in anesthesiology and plans to pursue a pre-med pathway in college. She grew up backpacking, skiing and running across the state and was drawn to Missoula as a place to continue the outdoor activities she loves. A dedicated runner, Conway will continue her athletic career as a member of the Griz Cross-Country and Track and Field teams. She graduated from high school a semester early and spent the spring volunteering in the Dominican Republic teaching English.

 

 

 

 

Alyssa Roberts, of Fairbanks, Alaska, has a strong interest in law, government and public service, with a particular focus on criminal justice and constitutional law. She is involved in Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps, mock trial, yearbook, National Honor Society, track and student leadership programs, including Girls State. Roberts enjoys creative writing, baking and athletics and values teamwork and discipline, both in and out of school. She plans to pursue a career as a prosecutor, with the goal of upholding justice and advocating for her community. 

 

Colorado 

Sam Briggs, of Golden, Colorado, plans to study neuroscience and is passionate about mental well-being. He hopes to advocate for mental health during his time at UM. An avid runner, Briggs served as captain of his cross-country team and is also a violist in a regional orchestra, with an appreciation for many types of music. His curiosity about different cultures and landscapes led him to establish a geography club at school. Briggs enjoys fly-fishing and off-trail backcountry adventures in all seasons and has shared these interests with youth through several outdoor education roles. 

 

 

 

 

Lucy Capra, of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, plans to study terrestrial wildlife biology, with the goal of becoming an informed and responsible steward of the land. An engaged and well‑rounded student, she has participated in a wide range of academic, artistic and athletic pursuits. Capra attended the Colorado Governor’s School, served as an intern and liaison for local seminars through the Steamboat Public Policy Lecture Series, and is a varsity athlete on her school’s Nordic ski team. She also is the founder and president of Knots and Thoughts, a fiber arts and mental health club. An artist and strong advocate for community involvement, Capra looks forward to continuing her academic and leadership growth at UM.

 

Nina Goodrich, of Fort Collins, Colorado, plans to pursue a career in wildlife biology, with the goal of earning a Ph.D. and focusing on wildlife conservation, crime and international environmental work. She has been dual-enrolled in college since her sophomore year and will graduate with an honors-designated Associate of Science degree. Goodrich conducted research on raptors and bighorn sheep and is deeply engaged in environmental policy and advocacy. She has traveled extensively throughout Russia, Southeast Asia and the United States. Goodrich enjoys drawing, competing in dog sports, teaching 4-H classes and lobbying for environmental initiatives.

 

 

 

 

Henry Zuehlsdorff, of Boulder, Colorado, plans to study forestry and conservation at UM, with the goal of protecting natural resources in the face of climate change. After spending the first 16 years of his life in New York, he attended the Watershed School in Boulder, a small independent school that conducts in‑depth independent research on environmental issues, and he has taken on leadership roles within that close‑knit community. Conservation work and endurance sports also deepened his love of the outdoors and strengthened his commitment to environmental stewardship. Through UM’s Davidson Honors College, he hopes to gain the tools and perspectives needed to protect and preserve the natural world. 

 

 

 

Idaho 

Addison Thomsen, of Pocatello, Idaho, plans to major in music composition at UM. She is a multi-instrumentalist, with a primary focus on trombone and piano. As a senior at Highland High School, Thomsen served as president and drum major of the Highland Band and was captain of congressional debate for the Speech and Debate Team. In her free time, she enjoys making music, baking and reading. After earning her bachelor's degree in music composition, Thomsen hopes to pursue a master’s degree and build a career creating music across the United States.

 

 

 

 

 

Montana 

Taylor Cummins, of Poplar, plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work followed by a master’s degree in school counseling, with the goal of supporting students in her community. A dedicated student-athlete, she has competed in four varsity sports – cross-country, volleyball, basketball and track – while also taking early college courses through a local community college. Cummins balances her academic and athletic commitments with part-time work at her family’s clinic. In her free time, she enjoys music, singing at her local church and baking. 

 

 

 

 

Ruby Daughenbaugh, of Bozeman, is interested in biology, biochemistry and mathematics and plans to pursue medical school. An Eagle Scout, she demonstrates strong leadership and service. Outside of school, Daughenbaugh works at a local sandwich shop, tutors in math and volunteers with Cub Scouts. She also enjoys reading and crocheting. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finn Duffy, of Noxon, is interested in studying biology, with additional academic interests in music and psychology. He has been actively involved in his school community through Business Professionals of America, Student Council, band, baseball and Hope Squad. Duffy has a strong passion for music and enjoys playing, learning and discussing it, while also exploring interests in video games, Dungeons and Dragons and psychology. At UM, he hopes to expand his knowledge of music, participate in jazz band, build meaningful connections and engage fully in the Davidson Honors College.

 

 

 

 

Elliot Ganno, of Helena, plans to study biology with a focus on ecology and organismal biology, with the goal of becoming an entomologist and studying insect behavior. A deeply curious learner, Ganno enjoys exploring a wide range of topics and has a particular fascination with insects. They have been involved in speech and debate, as well as taekwondo and an after-school teen arts council. Outside of academics, Ganno enjoys comic books, horror movies and doll collecting. 

 

 

 

 

 

Brock Gardipee, of Helena, plans to study finance and accounting. He is motivated by a strong commitment to his community and looks for opportunities to help others whenever he can. Gardipee enjoys hiking, spending time with family and the outdoors. He hopes to continue serving others and making a positive impact, regardless of the career path he ultimately chooses. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Geffen Guscio, of Missoula, plans to explore a wide range of academic disciplines while developing as a leader in the Davidson Honors College community. He is interested in both the medical field and entrepreneurship. Guscio brings an international perspective through frequent travel to visit family in Israel and participation in international pole vault competitions, including representing Israel in the European Youth Olympics. He is excited to continue competing on the UM Track and Field team while engaging with fellow students and faculty.

 

Wilder Henningsen, of Bozeman, plans to study acting for film and theater alongside environmental science. She is deeply involved in the arts and outdoor exploration. Henningsen enjoys skiing in the winter and rafting or paddleboarding during the summer. She also participates in local theater productions, teaches theater and clowning at the 406 Cirque summer camp and helps lead activities at a senior home. Known for her spontaneous energy, she loves to dance wherever she goes.

 

Kate Lee, of Helena, plans to major in business management, with a possible double major in economics and a minor in Spanish. She is interested in business consulting and entrepreneurship. Lee enjoys cross-country skiing, mountain biking and running track. She is also musically inclined – playing both piano and trombone – and has a love for dance, including Irish step dancing. 

 

Wilson McLaughlin, of Florence, plans to study sociology and sports management, with the goal of becoming an immigration lawyer. A passionate learner, she is deeply interested in social justice and has been actively involved in organizations that support the queer community. Wilson participates in a wide range of activities, including music, theater, singing, speech and debate and rugby. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her cat. She is committed to using her education to advocate for others and help create a more inclusive and supportive world.

 

Charlotte Nelson, of Scobey, plans to study accounting at UM with the goal of becoming a Certified Public Accountant and opening her own small-town accounting firm. A dedicated student leader, she serves as president of Business Professionals of America, where she won the Advanced Accounting competition at the regional level. Nelson also is passionate about speech and drama and played a key role in sustaining the program after school funding was cut. In her free time, she volunteers at her local library, supporting after-school programs for children, and enjoys reading and crocheting.

 

Madeline Pomeroy, of Bigfork, plans to pursue studies in the sciences with the goal of a career in pediatrics. Growing up in a military family, she has lived and traveled around the world. Pomeroy is involved in her community, volunteering with her school, local library and the VFW. She is captain of her school’s speech and debate team, where she combines her interests in public speaking and teaching. In her free time, she explores Montana's cave systems and works with elementary students through educational programs.

 

Evan Pyron, of Missoula, plans to pursue a degree in engineering physics. He has completed a rigorous AP and IB curriculum and is a member of both the National Honor Society and the National Society of High School Scholars. Pyron is a three-sport varsity athlete in football, basketball and track and field, earning Academic All-State honors in each. He also serves as chief operating officer of his high school’s investing club, operates a lawn care business, officiates youth sports and plays tenor saxophone in the wind ensemble.

 

Trey St. John, of Great Falls, plans to major in exercise and health science, with an interest in sports medicine. His academic and athletic experiences have shaped his goal of becoming a sports physician. St. John completed several college-level and AP courses and was a varsity football captain, as well as an All-State honorable mention linebacker. He hopes to combine his passion for sports, science and helping others in his future career.

 

Alyssa Stephens, of Missoula, plans to study international business as an undergraduate before pursuing a career in the legal field. She is an engaged and curious student with interests across multiple disciplines. In her free time, Stephens enjoys watching and participating in musicals, cooking and staying informed by reading the news. She has been actively involved in Business Professionals of America and speech and debate and looks forward to bringing her leadership experience to the Davidson Honors College.

 

Lauren Turner, of Billings, plans to pursue a degree in sports psychology, combining her interests in mathematics, the human mind and athletics. She enjoys reading, hiking, crafting and running. Turner was a founding member of her school’s Tri-M Music Honor Society chapter, served as drum major for the pep band, captained her cross-country team and taught music lessons to middle school students. 

 

New Jersey 

Anika Blume, of Sparta, New Jersey, plans to pursue a pre-med track with the goal of becoming a cardiothoracic surgeon. She has a strong interest in science and is actively involved in organizations such as HOSA and science league, where she focuses on health-related learning opportunities. Coming from a family of first- and second-generation immigrants, Blume grew up speaking both German and Lithuanian. She is eager to gain hands-on medical experience to support her future career in the health care field. Blume is excited to attend UM, where she looks forward to exploring the mountains, hiking trails and nearby national parks.

 

Texas 

Emma Larson, of Flower Mound, Texas – who writes under the pen name Emma Jolise – is a creative writer with interests in film, philosophy and psychology. An Eagle Scout, Larson enjoys camping, hiking and backpacking and is drawn to the outdoors. She is currently directing a play for her theater department, working on a novel and completing her senior year with a rigorous course load that includes AP Macroeconomics. She also is finishing the final season of track and volunteering with her church. Through her many creative and academic pursuits, Larson hopes to expand her intellectual horizons and make an impact through storytelling.

 

Utah 

Fisher Eaton, of Sandy, Utah, plans to study genetics with an interest in researching native fish populations. He is especially drawn to scientific inquiry and hands-on work in laboratory settings. Eaton is an avid runner and serves as captain of his cross-country and track teams. He also enjoys fly-fishing, skiing, backpacking, writing songs and playing instruments such as the acoustic guitar. He hopes to pursue a career in genetic research, focusing on conservation and the study of native fish species. 

 

Washington 

Finn Beery, of Okanogan, Washington, plans to study marketing with a minor in climate change studies, combining his interests in business and the environment. Entering college with nearly 60 dual enrollment credits, he is well prepared to pursue his academic goals. Beery spends much of his time outdoors, especially skiing, and is involved in his community through volunteering at local events. He also enjoys exploring professional photography. He hopes to build a career working for a company that makes a positive impact on the climate.

 

Luke Hawkins, of Wenatchee, Washington, plans to pursue a degree in wildlife biology with a focus on aquatic systems. He is considering UM’s s 4+1 Master of Public Administration program. During his senior year, Hawkins attended Wenatchee Valley College through a dual-enrollment program and will earn his Associate of Science degree this summer. Hawkins enjoys fishing, swimming and playing the piano, and he looks forward to fly-fishing in Montana's well-known rivers. 

 

Virginia 

Emma Jamieson, of Charlottesville, Virginia, plans to pursue studies that deepen her interests in the outdoors and creative writing. Born in Montana and shaped by its wild landscapes, she has maintained a strong connection to nature, taking classes and working at a wilderness survival school. Jamieson is also drawn to the power of words and storytelling and enjoys writing as a creative and reflective practice. She hopes to continue exploring both environmental and literary studies in college, with aspirations to one day publish a book and build a career connected to the outdoors. Above all, Jamieson strives to grow as a person of strong character and purpose.

 

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Contact: Kaetlyn Cordingley, associate dean, UM Davidson Honors College, 406-243-2579, kaetlyn.cordingley@umontana.edu.