Staff
Dan Benge, Director
Phone: (406) 243-4199
E-mail: daniel.benge@umontana.edu
Dan's Study Tip: Treat college as a job, 40 hours a week. When not in class, use the remaining time to read, study, write papers or use tutoring or other helpful services.
I was born in Colorado and both my parents were immigrants from Germany. I really didn't think earning a college degree was possible and was very naïve about the whole process. I didn't know about the FAFSA until my sophomore year of college. A friend needed help moving back to the University of Northern Colorado, and asked if I could help. Helping that friend move to campus changed my life dramatically. After spending some time on campus, I applied to UNC and was accepted. I ended up earning a Bachelor Degree in Business, a Master Degree in Communication, and a Doctorate in College Personnel Administration.
I have worked with TRIO programs for over 26 years and love the work. I feel fortunate to have a career that is meaningful and impactful. I get the opportunity to help students achieve their academic goals.
I am very proud of my two kids, (adults now), who both have earned college degrees. My wife and I are very excited about living in Missoula and take advantage of all the opportunities this community provides.
Janet Zupan, Advising Coordinator/Instructor
Phone: (406) 243-4210
E-mail: janet.zupan@umontana.edu
Janet's Study Tip: Strive to be an active, reflective learner. Move beyond memorization and recitation, to the ideas, concepts, and spirit behind every subject. Your college experience can be mind-altering. Approach it with verve!
I was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico (long ago!), but sped off from there and through my childhood to follow my dad in his career as a test pilot in the Air Force. He and my mom came from the Scott's Valley in Northern California, so for lack of a hometown, I adopted that one in my heart. In 1990, I earned an undergraduate degree in English Literature from California State University, Chico. I then came to The University of Montana, seeking an M.F.A. in Creative Writing (Poetry). Two years into that degree, I met and married a native Montanan (a move that extended my stay in this beautiful state!) We've been raising our three children together since 1992. After graduating, I've served as the director for Hellgate Writers, Inc., and worked as a poet-in-residence for the Missoula Writing Collaborative. I became part of the TRIO SSS staff in 1997 and feel very lucky and pleased about that!
Heather Hibbard, Instructor and Advisor
Phone: (406) 243-4880
E-mail: heather.hibbard@umontana.edu
Heather's Study Tip:Try to connect course content to something meaningful or important in your life. The more you can connect, the more you will remember!
I am originally from Omak, Washington, and moved to Montana in 2002 to finish the last 2 years of by Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies. I later returned to school to complete a Master’s degree in Education. I have been with TRIO SSS since 2008, starting off as Program Assistant, then Tutor Coordinator, and now Instructor, Advisor, and Mentor Program Manager. If a student has a dream of earning their bachelor’s degree, I strongly believe that with our support, they will achieve it! Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my husband and two children!
The TRIO SSS staff has over 50 years of combined experience in TRIO programs. In a visit to our offices, you will find a welcoming, approachable, knowledgeable staff, and a diverse, hard-working, dedicated group of students. We take the goal of graduation seriously, and look forward to helping students toward this goal!
Peter Donaldson, Advisor/Tutor Coordinator
Phone: (406) 243-4202
E-mail: peter.donaldson@umontana.edu
Peter’s Study Tip: Ask questions! If there’s something you don’t understand (in an assignment, in a class lecture, in the course readings, or in reviewing your notes), don’t be afraid to find someone to help. Your professors and TA’s are there to help you learn, so stop by during their office hours if you have questions. Also seek out tutoring opportunities on campus or work with your classmates to start a study group. No one can know everything, and the only way to learn is to ask!
I am originally from the Bozeman area and, while I enjoy traveling whenever possible, am so happy to have found a home here in Missoula and at the University of Montana. I've been proud to be a part of the TRIO team at UM for over 12 years now. I've found a passion in supporting education opportunities for students on our campus and across the state. My employment background had focused on administration and Human Resources, but helping to make post-secondary education attainable to all has helped me to understand the value of education as a path for social mobility and and a way for us all to understand one another better. TRIO Works because the people who work here care about students. We're your biggest advocates and champions. We look forward to you achieving your dreams through education, whatever that looks like for you!
Vacant, Program Coordinator
Phone: (406) 243-5032
E-mail:
Macy Piñon, Advisor/Academic Success Coach
Phone: (406) 243-5031
E-mail: macy.pinon@umontana.edu
Macy's Study Tip: Approach college holistically! College is more than just the classroom! Focusing on both academics and personal growth is key to getting the most out of your college experience. Remember to give yourself grace, be involved in a community, make friends, and explore the things you love!
While getting my degree in social work, I worked at Winds of Change Mental Health to gain more knowledge of the field! During my last year of school, I served as a lead mentor in the TRIO Mentor Program and really enjoy working one on one with students!. After graduation in the Spring of 2023, I began to call TRIO my home base!
In my time outside of working with students, I can be found advocating for non-toxic and ethical skincare and cleaning products!
The summers in Missoula are my favorite time of year because I get to run outdoors and play pickle ball! My husband and I love trips overseas to see our family and explore different cultures! One of our favorite things to do together is make food and host people in our home!
Darlene Samson, Academic Advisor
Phone: (406) 243-5031
E-mail: darlene.samson@mso.umt.edu
Darlene's Study Tip: Hit every subject every day! Review notes, read the summary in text chapter, or note cards. This helps memory and retention.
Find a reliable study buddy! Someone who helps you stay on track. When I was in grad school, my buddy and I would review our notes from classes to make sure we were catching all the pertinent information. There was always something missing that we were able to discuss or review. And, ultimately, it gave us the impetus to talk with the professor to ask what we missed!
I was born and raised in "uniquely" Anaconda when the copper smelter was thriving. I attended college in Billings and worked throughout the state in various teaching opportunities, including five years on the Blackfeet reservation. In the early 90's, I was hired as an Advisor for TRIO and stayed 30 years; the last seven as TRIO Director. My husband is still working and we have two adult daughters. In my spare time, I like to be outdoors and since retirement, I work out five days a week taking various classes. Shine light is my newest favorite!