Current Pure Gold Recipients

Chris Pruden serves as the Leadership & Engagement Program Manager in the Office of Student Engagement. In this role, Chris is responsible for spearheading student engagement opportunities throughout the year and, most notably, leading the MSU Debut events calendar. MSU Debut is a weeklong series of signature events designed to welcome new students to campus, including the Food Truck Rodeo, the M Photo, Catapalooza, the MSU Debut Concert, and Rock'n the M. The scope of work Chris contributes to hosting MSU Debut is immense. Coordinating large-scale programs that engage hundreds--and in some cases thousands--of students requires months of preparation, cross-campus collaboration, and careful logistical planning.

From securing venues and food vendors to managing contracts and coordinating volunteers and student staff, Chris ensures every detail is thoughtfully executed to provide students with a meaningful and memorable experience. The result is a welcoming, energizing, and highly organized start to the academic year that sets the tone for student success. Chris's leadership in managing MSU Debut not only elevates the student experience but also strengthens the sense of community on campus. His ability to honor tradition, foster belonging, and seamlessly connect MSU with the broader Bozeman community enriches the student experience in lasting ways. Thanks for all you do, Chris!

Award recieved September 24th 2025. Nominated by Shannon Bangen.

Through his strong work ethic, leadership, and enthusiasm for training the next generation of geospatial professionals, Jackson Rose embodies Pure Gold. Jackson manages the daily operations of the Geospatial Core Facility and teaches several courses in the Department of Earth Sciences. When he is not supporting clients through managing their numerous and varied geospatial projects through the core facility, he is educating and mentoring both undergraduate and graduate students in a manner that helps them to grow and prosper both professionally and personally, and eventually obtain great jobs after graduation. 

You won't find a semester where Jackson doesn't earn high praise for his teaching and mentorship from his students. Outside of these established roles that are already more than a full-time job, Jackson's curiosity about the world around him, including the social, political, and technical aspects of geospatial issues, generates new ideas that help make not only MSU, but also our local and rural communities that much better. All of this is complemented by his humble demeanor and work ethic that inspires us every day. In the words of Julia Haggerty, head of the Department of Earth Sciences, Jackson is a "true Bobcat all-star!"

Award recieved September 17th 2025. Nominated by Mary Gauvin.

Kevin Olmstead serves all four MSU campuses as the Application Administrator for EAB Navigate360, a vital retention and communication tool. As one of the Navigate360 leads on the Billings campus, I frequently collaborate with Kevin to optimize our use of the tool and address any technical and operational challenges. Kevin also supports the other three MSU campuses in this way, acting as the primary liaison between the campuses and EAB for technical matters. His expertise is crucial for implementing many of the initiatives we rely on in Navigate360. 

Kevin consistently provides steadfast support, helps us innovate new uses for the tool, and fosters collaboration across campuses with varying needs. He does all of this with a calm, kind demeanor, sharp sense of humor, and an unwavering commitment to the success of the project, not just on his own campus, but across all four. Thank you for everything you do, Kevin!

Award recieved September 10th 2025. Nominated by Katharine Moffat. 

 

Whitney joined the MSU community during a time of transition for SHS, with the new Student Wellness Center just becoming a reality. Since then, she has offered incredible stability and leadership, demonstrating a strong commitment to both the department's staff and the students who rely on our care. Whitney has shown unparalleled dedication to the health and well-being of the student body, consistently leading with compassion, expertise and a strong commitment to fostering a supportive environment. Her leadership has not only strengthened day-to-day operations at SHS but also sparked innovative solutions to enhance student healthcare experiences. 

Under the direction of the Associate Vice President for Student Wellness, Whitney has been an advocate for the "One Team" integration efforts to bring together Student Health, Counseling and Psychological Services, and Campus Recreation. Under her leadership, the "One Team" mission has taken shape, fostering a collaborative approach to student care. Whitney excels in motivating and guiding her staff, ensuring that everyone works together with a common purpose: to prioritize the health and safety of MSU students. Her ability to mentor, provide clear direction and offer constructive feedback has allowed each team member to grow and thrive within their roles. Whitney's work ethic, integrity and compassion have made a profound and lasting impact on the Student Wellness community. Her leadership continues to inspire the members of the staff to achieve the mission of holistic student wellness. 

We asked SHS staff members to make comments about Whitney's service to campus:                                                                                                                       "If there was an even higher level like 'pure platinum,' I would nominate Whitney for it!"                                                                                                                                 

"I wholeheartedly recommend Whitney for this recognition, as she has demonstrated remarkable dedication, outstanding leadership and a genuine passion for improving the student experience at Montana State University."                                                                                                                                                            "We fully support Whitney for the Pure Gold recognition as a result of her exemplary service and outstanding team leadership."         

Award received September 3, 2025. Nominated by Emma Hoegh, Matt Caires and the staff members of Student Health Services.                                                                                          

 

I would like to nominate Charly Allmer, an undergraduate admissions counselor at Montana State University, for the Pure Gold Award. Charly has been a dedicated member of the Undergraduate Admissions Office for the past 2 1/2 years. She is not only incredibly conscientious and hard working but also brings a sense of fun and warmth to the team. Her approach to work combines compassion and commitment, particularly when supporting students who face unique barriers to higher education. As a first-generation college student from Wolf Point, Charly knows first-hand the hurdles students can face on their way to higher education. She consistently goes above and beyond in her work with Native American students, first-generation students, and those from rural or smaller communities. She has become a trusted advocate and a vital resource for students who may have limited guidance in navigating the admissions process.

Charly is known for always saying yes to a challenge, particularly when it involves helping a student succeed. Whether it's a nervous family needing support, taking on extra meetings and tours, or helping her teammates with tricky situations, Charly is there - with both kindness and humor. Charly holds a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership and she is recognized as a 'Rising Star' by the Montana Post Secondary Educational Opportunities Council (MPSEOC). In every way, Charly embodies what it means to be Pure Gold - generous with her time, passionate about student success, and dedicated to making MSU a place where all students can see a future for themselves. Charly is known for always saying yes to a challenge, particularly when it involves helping a student succeed. Whether it's a nervous family needing support, taking on extra meetings and tours, or helping her teammates with tricky situations, Charly is there - with both kindness and humor. Charly holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and she is recognized as a “Rising Star” by the Montana Post Secondary Educational Opportunities Council. In every way, Charly embodies what it means to be Pure Gold - generous with her time, passionate about student success, and dedicated to making MSU a place where all students can see a future for themselves.

Award Recieved August 27th, 2025. Nominated by Patty Carr.

 

I would like to take a moment to commend Lauren Good for the incredible positivity and professionalism she brings to the Service Desk in the Renne Library. Lauren truly makes a difference in the work environment every single day. She consistently demonstrates an upbeat attitude and has never once shown negativity, even in the face of challenging situations. Her ability to remain positive and solution focused sets a wonderful example for everyone around her.  Lauren's lighthearted approach to her work creates a welcoming atmosphere for both her colleagues and the students, faculty and staff we support. She has a unique ability to make those around her feel at ease, which is invaluable in a fast-paced environment like the Help Desk. Her warmth and genuine enthusiasm uplift the entire team and help foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork. It is clear Lauren truly cares about the work she does and the people she serves. Her positivity is contagious, and she embodies the type of attitude that inspires others to bring their best selves to work each day. We are fortunate to have someone like Lauren on our team. Award Recieved August 20th, 2025. Nominated by Chris Bebawy.