Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders of Montana for 2024. Known for its rugged beauty and vast natural landscapes that stretch from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, Montana is also home to a diverse and dynamic economy. While over 30% of Montana’s economy is driven by the service sector, the state’s workforce is also shaped by key industries like recreation, energy, mining, agriculture, and forestry.
This year, we honor the careers of some of the most talented professionals in the state of Montana. Among them is Anne Dingerson, Senior Director of North America Sales Programs and Global Services at Salesforce. With over two decades of experience, Dingerson is a strategic marketing leader skilled in program execution, business development, and digital marketing.
Next, we congratulate Sarah Fox, Director of Product Digital Strategy at the Mayo Clinic. Fox is an accomplished digital leader who has built her career around leveraging data and technology, now serving a top-ranked hospital in the US.
Lastly, we honor Brittany Jones, Chief of Communications at the Montana and Dakotas State Office for the Bureau of Land Management. Jones has vast experience working with the US and foreign governments, which includes leading in crisis situations and communicating complicated scientific data.
Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 Women Leaders of Montana for 2024.
1. Christy Castronovo
Chief Strategy Officer, Northwestern Mutual
Christy Castronovo is the Chief Strategy Officer of Northwestern Mutual, a financial partner that offers personalized plans, top-rated services, and life insurance.
Previously, Castronovo was the chief recruiting officer at Northwestern Mutual, where she played a significant role in talent acquisition and development. Before that, she served as a financial advisor at the same company, where she spent 17 years advising clients on financial planning and investment strategies. Earlier in her career, she worked as an executive recruiter at BCA Search. Castronovo graduated from San Diego State University with an MA in Communications and from Montana State University-Bozeman with an undergraduate degree in communications.
2. Monica Berner
Chief Clinical Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Montana New Mexico Oklahoma & Texas
Monica Berner is the Chief Clinical Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. She is responsible for clinical policy and operations that improve access and support efficient delivery of high-quality, affordable medical care. This includes oversight of provider networks, care management, value-based care, accreditation, and quality improvement initiatives.
Previously, Berner served as president of HCSC's Montana Plan, where she led operations encompassing sales and account management, government and public relations, provider network management, and medical management. Before that, she was the plan's chief medical officer and medical director. Earlier in her career, she spent 12 years working in direct patient care, including roles at the Lewis and Clark County Community Health Center in Helena and as a Veterans Affairs staff physician in the outpatient clinic at Montana's Fort Harrison VA Medical Center.
Berner is a board-certified family physician who is passionate about improving access to affordable, high-quality healthcare for all Americans. She has a degree in medicine from Baylor College of Medicine.
3. Brittany Jones
Chief of Communications, Montana and Dakotas State Office, Bureau of Land Management
Brittany Jones is the Chief of Communications at the Montana and Dakotas State Office for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). She first joined the team in 2023. The BLM’s multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
Jones is a strategic communications scholar and professional with more than 15 years of experience. She enjoys working in fast-paced environments and crafting communications strategies. She is an effective storyteller and editor, a website and social media manager, and an award-winning photographer and graphic designer. Jones has vast experience working with the US and foreign governments and members of the media, developing community relations programs, leading in crisis situations, communicating complicated, scientific data in easily understandable ways, and managing events viewed by worldwide audiences.
Previously, Jones was a public affairs specialist at the Bureau of Reclamation. Earlier in her career, she worked with the United States Air Force as a public affairs manager. She earned an MA in Health Communication from East Carolina University and an undergraduate degree in communication and media studies.
4. Kimberly Hudson
Chief Marketing Officer, Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc.
Kimberly Hudson is the Chief Marketing Officer of Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc. Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc. is the fastest-growing full-service tax preparation company with over 5,000 franchised and company-owned locations, including nearly 3,000 locations in Walmart stores.
Hudson has 20 years of experience and a proven track record of achieving ambitious revenue and performance targets while maximizing customer adoption and success. She is skilled at motivating, engaging, and developing strong, trusted relationships, effectively communicating to ensure business alignment. Hudson excels at organizing teams with measurable outcomes and implementing cohesive, customer-focused solutions. As a versatile strategic marketer, she brings an enthusiastic, collaborative, roll-up-your-sleeves work ethic to every project.
Before joining Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Inc., Hudson was a group product marketing manager of the Small Business division at Intuit. Earlier in her career, she worked with John Deere as a senior account and program development manager. Hudson graduated from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business with an MBA in International Strategy, Marketing, and Management and from Iowa State University with an undergraduate degree in industrial engineering.
5. Denise Lamb
Chief Licensing Officer, University of Montana
Denise Lamb is the Chief Licensing Officer of the University of Montana. She first joined the team in 2024. The university delivers education and training on its four campuses and through telecommunications to sites inside and outside of Montana.
Previously, Lamb was the vice president of partner services at IMG College Licensing, where she worked for over eight years. Before that, she served as a senior director at the Collegiate Licensing Company, where she served for over two decades. In 2019, Lamb was inducted into the ICLA Hall of Fame through the International Collegiate Licensing Association. A founding board member of ICLA, she has collected numerous awards for her creativity and innovation.
6. Samantha Cooley
Chief Operating Officer, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Samantha Cooley is a trailblazing leader and the Chief Operating Officer for the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Technology Services Division. With a decade of dedication to public service, she has consistently transformed complex challenges into opportunities for innovation and improvement in health and human services IT systems.
Cooley’s visionary leadership is exemplified by her creation of LRIT-Go!, a groundbreaking framework and 12-month training program that has significantly enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of Montana’s largest state agency. The program boasts a 94% customer satisfaction score and a 73% improvement in familiarity with training topics, demonstrating her commitment to empowering teams and driving results.
Cooley’s expertise in navigating the intricacies of state and federal finance has been instrumental in securing $1.2 billion in federal funding, with a flawless approval record from 2018 to 2022. Recognized for her exceptional work, she received the Governor’s Excellence Award in 2016 for modernizing the State Information Technology service rate structure, further solidifying her reputation as an innovative and results-oriented leader.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cooley is a devoted mother, a small business owner, and an active member of her community. She plays hockey on a co-ed team and volunteers in youth sports, embodying the spirit of leadership both at work and in her personal life.
7. Kathleen Quinones
Chief Financial Officer, Billings Clinic
Kathleen Quinones is the Chief Financial Officer of Billings Clinic. Billings Clinic is Montana’s largest healthcare system, the first and only Level I Trauma Center serving Montana, Wyoming, and the western Dakotas. A not-for-profit organization led by a physician CEO, Billings Clinic is governed by a board of community members, nurses, and physicians.
Quinones started her career in 1993 as a coordinator of customer services at Washington Gas Frederick Division. From there, she went on to E-QUIP, Ltd, before eventually rising to controller at Reid Health, her most recent position before joining Billings Clinic. Quinones graduated from Hood College with an MBA in Finance and from Mount St. Mary's University with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
8. Amy Peterson
Chief Executive Officer, Ronald McDonald House Charities
Amy Peterson is the Chief Executive Officer of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). She first joined the team in 2015. RMHC is an independent American nonprofit organization whose stated mission is to create, find, and support programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children.
Previously, Peterson was a community relations and family education professional at Koelsch Senior Communities, where she was responsible for engaging with families and ensuring they were well-informed and supported. Before that, she was an account manager and business manager at Kinetic Marketing & Creative. She managed client accounts and business operations. Earlier in her career, she worked as an assistant administrator at Bonaventure Senior Living. Peterson earned an undergraduate degree in accounting, business, and management from Rocky Mountain College.
9. Brittnee Brown
Chief Financial Officer, Yellowstone Natural Holdings
Brittnee Brown is the Chief Financial Officer of Yellowstone Natural Holdings. Yellowstone Natural Holdings Co. is revolutionizing the food industry with a commitment to sustainability, quality, and ethical practices. By partnering with small US ranchers in Montana and maintaining rigorous USDA and FDA inspections, they deliver food that is not only delicious but also responsibly sourced and reinvested in the communities.
Previously, Brown was the vice president of finance at Healthsource Partners LLC, where she led financial strategy and oversaw the company's fiscal operations. Before that, she served as the finance director at Central Asia Institute, managing financial reporting and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Earlier in her career, she worked as a tax accountant at Holmes & Turner, where she focused on tax preparation and compliance.
Brown graduated from the University of Montana with a Master’s degree in Accounting. She also has an undergraduate degree in accounting.
10. Eva Skidmore
Chief Marketing Officer, JAGGAER
Eva Skidmore is the Chief Marketing Officer of JAGGAER, a global leader in enterprise procurement and supplier collaboration, and the catalyst for enhancing human decision-making to accelerate business outcomes. In her role, Skidmore is responsible for creating growth marketing plans, driving brand awareness, and leading demand generation globally.
As a sales and growth-oriented marketing executive with 20 years of experience, Skidmore has consistently transformed marketing impact through strategic leadership at scale. She continuously drives innovation, from vision to execution and impact, shaping global marketing and sales strategies that enable pipeline growth for both startup companies and Fortune 100 market leaders. Energetic, compassionate, and creative, she thrives on building high-performing teams with cultures rooted in collaboration, inclusivity, and measurable impact.
Previously, Skidmore was an executive in marketing and education at Salesforce. Before that, she was a director at Socrata. Earlier in her career, she worked with Microsoft as a senior marketing manager. Skidmore holds a degree in international relations from Tufts University and a Master of Business Administration from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.
11. Kathy Hill
Chief Operating Officer, Benefis Medical Group
Kathy Hill is the Chief Operating Officer of Benefis Medical Group, a nonprofit independent healthcare system based in the city of Great Falls in the state of Montana in the United States.
Hill has 31 years of experience. At Benefis Health System, she is responsible for the operational duties and leadership of a multi-specialty physician and provider group consisting of over 190 professionals. Her expertise lies in managing complex healthcare operations and guiding a diverse team to deliver high-quality care.
Before joining Benefis Medical Group, Hill was a chief administrative officer of orthopedics and rehab at Benefis Health System. Earlier in her career, she worked with St. James Hospital as a manager of strategic business development. Hill graduated from the University of Phoenix with an MA in Organizational Management and from the University of Washington with a degree in physical therapy.
12. Kathryn Bertany
Chief Executive Officer, Bozeman Health
Kathryn Bertany is the Chief Executive Officer of Bozeman Health, an integrated healthcare delivery system serving an eleven-county region in Southwest Montana. As a nonprofit organization governed by a volunteer community board of directors, they are the largest private employer in Gallatin County.
Bertany started her career in 1993 as a pediatrician at Princeton Nassau Pediatrics. From there, she went on to St Charles Medical Center, before eventually rising to executive medical director and administrative director at St. Luke's Children's Hospital, her most recent position before joining Bozeman Health.
Bertany graduated from Columbia Business School with an MBA and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with an MD. She also attended UNC-Chapel Hill for her undergraduate degree in biology.
13. Katie Bender
Chief Administrative Officer, Columbia Threadneedle Investments US
Katie Bender is the Chief Administrative Officer of Columbia Threadneedle Investments US, a leading global asset management group that provides a broad range of investment strategies and solutions for individual, institutional, and corporate clients around the world.
Bender has 23 years of experience. She is a business planning and management professional with extensive experience in leading highly visible, complex business initiatives from inception to completion. She has a proven ability to thrive in ambiguous situations and a successful track record of working with senior leaders to ensure alignment among multiple stakeholders, with a strong emphasis on execution.
Before joining Columbia Threadneedle Investments US, Bender was a project coordinator at Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Before that, she was a business manager at Octavus Group. Earlier in her career, she worked with Lerner, Sampson, and Rothfuss as a project manager. Bender graduated from Loyola University Chicago with an MBA and from Northwestern University with an undergraduate degree in communication studies and history.
14. Kathryn Carlson
Chief Product Officer, Riskonnect, Inc.
Today, Kathryn Carlson is the Chief Product Officer of Riskonnect, Inc. Riskonnect is the leading integrated risk management software solution provider. Their technology empowers organizations with the ability to anticipate, manage, and respond in real time to strategic and operational risks across the extended enterprise.
Carlson has more than 20 years of product management and product development leadership experience. With executive-level management experience at both Fortune 500 and start-up companies, she has a proven ability to define strategic plans and lead teams to success in product management, product development, product marketing, operations, and HR management.
Carlson landed her first leadership role in 1993 as a branch manager at WestStaff (Western Staffing Services). From there, she went on to AVERT, Inc., before eventually rising to vice president of product management at KPA LLC, her most recent position before joining Riskonnect, Inc. Carlson graduated from Sweet Briar College and the University of Florida.
15. Jennifer Cogley
Chief Financial Officer, Murdoch's Ranch & Home Supply
Jennifer Cogley is the Chief Financial Officer of Murdoch's Ranch & Home Supply. Murdoch’s is proud to have 40 stores spanning Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Texas and Wyoming. Its family of stores is staffed with more than 2,200 dedicated team members.
Previously, Cogley was the controller at Murdoch's, where she served for over 14 years before being promoted to CFO. Before that, she was the treasurer for Junior Achievement of Montana, contributing to the organization's financial management for three years. Earlier in her career, she was an active member of the National Retail Federation's Financial Executives Council. Cogley earned an undergraduate degree in accounting from Montana State University-Bozeman. She is now a proud resident of Bozeman, Montana.
16. Elizabeth Buisker
Associate Chief Medical Officer - Medical Group Montana & Wyoming, Intermountain Healthcare
Elizabeth Buisker is the Associate Chief Medical Officer of Medical Group Montana and Wyoming of Intermountain Healthcare. She first joined the team in 2023. As the largest nonprofit health system in the Mountain West, Intermountain Health is dedicated to creating healthier communities and helping their patients and caregivers thrive.
Buisker is originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, followed by her medical degree from Midwestern University-Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in Downers Grove, Illinois. Following her education, she moved to Denver, Colorado to complete a Family Medicine Residency at SCL Health Saint Joseph’s Hospital. Buisker always loved learning about how the body works and the disease processes that affect it and wanted to have a career where she could apply her knowledge and work directly with patients.
Previously, Buisker was a chief medical officer at SCL Health. Before that, she was a family medicine physician and medical director at Marillac Clinic. Earlier in her career, she worked with Pioneers Medical Center as a physician.
17. Michelle Skinner
Chief Clinical Executive, TeleTracking
Michelle Skinner is the Chief Clinical Executive of TeleTracking, the world’s leading healthcare operations platform. For over 30 years, they have exclusively focused on developing integrated operational solutions and clinical operations expertise that deliver measurable outcomes for healthcare organizations and governments.
Skinner has 21 years of experience. Before joining TeleTracking, she was a founding partner and principal consultant at The Eleva Group. Before that, she was the system director of outreach and business development at PeaceHealth. Earlier in her career, she worked with AdventHealth as a trauma program manager and as the interim director of the Emergency Department.
Skinner graduated from Regis University with an MBA and from Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences with an undergraduate degree in nursing.
18. Marcella Buster
Chief Human Resources Officer, Rocky Mountain College
Marcella Buster is the Chief Human Resources Officer of Rocky Mountain College, the oldest college in Montana. Founded in 1878, its history demonstrates a commitment to excellence and openness to all points of view.
In this role, Buster is responsible for providing vision, leadership, planning, project coordination, and management to meet both current and future needs within the HR function of the college. She develops and oversees the implementation of services, policies, and programs that align with the strategic goals established by the college. Additionally, she develops and monitors an annual budget that includes HR services. She also oversees all recruiting efforts for staff and faculty, ensuring that proper standards are followed throughout the recruiting and hiring processes to build a superior workforce.
Early in her career, Buster was a divisional store manager at Herberger's Department Store. From there, she went on to Holiday Companies, before eventually rising to director of human resources at 360 Office Solutions, her most recent position before joining the Rocky Mountain College team. Buster graduated from the University of Phoenix with an MBA in Human Resource Management and from Minot State University with an undergraduate degree in business administration, management, and operations.
19. Francine Cooper
Chief Financial Officer, AWARE
Francine Cooper is the Chief Financial Officer of AWARE. She first joined the team in 2021. AWARE is a statewide nonprofit organization that offers quality, community-based support for people with mental health and/or developmental disabilities and their families.
Previously, Cooper was a shareholder at Anderson ZurMuehlen Certified Public Accountants & Business Advisors, where she played a pivotal role in the firm's operations. Before that, she served as a senior manager at the same company, contributing to various client engagements and managing critical projects. Earlier in her career, she worked as an audit manager at Eide Bailly LLP, gaining extensive experience in audit processes and financial oversight.
Cooper graduated from CSU in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a concentration in Accounting.
20. Caryl Perdaems
Chief Practice Officer, The Great Falls Clinic
Caryl Perdaems is the Chief Practice Officer of The Great Falls Clinic. In 1917, four visionary medical leaders opened a world-class comprehensive healthcare center with an integrated team of specialists and a personal approach to wellness. Today, the Great Falls Clinic and Great Falls Hospital continue to embrace that legacy by becoming the model healthcare network, delivering compassionate, personalized care to over 250,000 rural Montanans.
Perdaems has 28 years of experience. Before joining The Great Falls Clinic, she was a system director of health group operations at Bozeman Health. Earlier in her career, she worked with Life Care Centers of America as a discipline director for occupational therapy.
Perdaems graduated from the University of Montana with an MPA in Policy and Public Administration and from UND School of Medicine and Health Sciences with an undergraduate degree in occupational therapy.
21. Jamie Palagi
Chief Executive Officer, Intermountain
Today, Jamie Palagi is the Chief Executive Officer of Intermountain, a visionary nonprofit agency that has been impacting the lives of children and families in Montana for over 100 years.
Palagi has dedicated her career to serving children, families, and individuals facing vulnerability for more than 27 years, including leadership roles in state government and the private and nonprofit sectors. She is a purpose-driven leader who brings significant expertise and experience to Intermountain, specifically in the areas of public policy, organizational development and operations, strategic planning, program design, and service delivery. Previously, she served as manager at Deloitte, her most recent position before joining Intermountain.
Palagi obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Family Science and Child Development from Montana State University, and she received her Master’s degree in Human Services Leadership from Concordia University.
22. Katie Mueller
Senior Vice President, Senior Consulting Group & Financial Advisor, RBC Wealth Management
Katie Mueller is a Senior Vice President, Senior Consulting Group and Financial Advisor at RBC Wealth Management. Along with her securities licensure, she has licenses for Life Insurance, Annuities, and Long-Term Care Insurance. Having also earned her CFP certification, she's well qualified to assist clients on the various aspects of estate and retirement planning, asset allocation, insurance solutions, lending, and strategic philanthropy. With years of experience and a hands-on approach, her primary focus is on building lasting relationships centered on a thorough understanding of each client’s needs, wants, and wishes, and guiding them to reach their goals through tailored financial advice.
Mueller is honored to have received additional accolades, including being named to the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list in 2024, the Forbes Best-In-State Women Wealth Advisors list 2024, and the Forbes Best-In-State Next Gen Wealth Advisors list in 2024. She was also recognized by her local Billings Gazette in their top “40 under 40” article in 2022.
23. Kelly Meeker
Chief of Staff & VP, Strategic Initiatives, Traliant
Kelly Meeker is the Chief of Staff and VP of Strategic Initiatives at Traliant. Traliant creates engaging and effective compliance training courses that help organizations stay up to date on workplace requirements and expectations, instill respect and understanding in employee interactions, and enable employees to be their best selves at work.
Meeker started her career in 2007 as a coordinator and writer, serving Berkowitz for Congress. From there, she went on to the Anchorage Park Foundation and Anchorage Parks & Recreation, before eventually rising to principal at Kestrel Wing Consulting in fractional project management, operations, and marketing services, her most recent position before joining Traliant. Meeker graduated from Georgetown University with an undergraduate degree in foreign service, science, technology, and international affairs.
24. Sara Smith
Chief Financial Officer, ALPS
Sara Smith is the CFO of ALPS Corporation. She joined ALPS in 2003 as a staff accountant and later served as controller. ALPS is the nation’s largest direct writer of lawyers’ malpractice insurance and is endorsed by more state bars than any other carrier.
Smith has worked for a diverse group of companies, including Montana Rail Link, Dudley & Associates LLC, and the Target Corporation. Previously, she was a treasurer and chief financial officer at Southern Title Insurance Corp. Smith has her BA in Marketing and Management from the University of Montana and her Master of Business Administration from the University of Colorado. She received her CPA in 2006 and is licensed in the state of Montana.
Smith is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and serves on the board of directors of the Montana Society of Certified Public Accountants. She also serves on the board of directors for Lawyers Reinsurance Company, MT CPA Board of Directors, and MTB Missoula.
25. Shauna Basile
Chief Financial Officer, Short's Travel Management
Shauna Basile is the Chief Financial Officer of Short's Travel Management. Established in 1946, Short’s Travel Management (STM) is a family-owned, women-owned, private corporation. They are sports travel experts specializing in team travel, recruiting travel, group hotels, bus charters, and air charters servicing hundreds of athletic departments each year.
Basile has more than 25 years of financial experience in the manufacturing, merger and acquisitions, educational, and human resource sectors. Before joining STM as a controller, and now CFO, she consulted in change management. As CFO, Basile oversees the planning and management of all finance activities of STM, including business planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
Earlier in her career, she worked with Moss Adams LLP as a senior manager. Basile graduated from Colorado State University with an MBA and from The University of Montana’s College of Business with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
26. Kelly Cartwright
VP of People Acquisition, Technology & Operations, Splunk
Kelly Cartwright is the VP of Global People Acquisition, Technology, and Operations at Splunk. In this position, she leads the design and execution of Splunk’s global workforce and talent acquisition strategy inclusive of executive, experienced, emerging talent, and contingent hiring. She also leads the organization’s global people process and technology transformation, analytics, compliance, and operations.
Before her current role, Cartwright was the head of talent acquisition in tech and enablement strategy at AWS, where she led the design and implementation of programmatic and technology-enabled solutions that enhanced candidate experience and drove efficiency and scale for the global recruiting organization.
Cartwright has more than 30 years of experience in the human capital management industry with deep expertise in rapid development and delivery of professional and technology solutions at scale. She serves on the advisory board of Acadian Ventures, an early-stage venture fund dedicated to supporting the next generation of companies redefining the future of work. Cartwright is based in Whitefish, MT.
27. Deborah Potter
Partner, Tax Services, Eide Bailly
Deborah Potter joined Eide Bailly, an accounting and business advisory firm, in 2007 and has devoted much of her professional career to serving the tax and accounting needs of businesses large and small.
Potter is currently a Partner for Tax Services offering tax compliance, business advisory, and consulting services to a variety of clients in industries as diverse as real estate, financial institutions, family-owned businesses, and high-wealth individuals. She also serves on Eide Bailly’s Tax Technical Committee and is a member of the firm’s Financial Institutions Services Group and State and Local Practice Group.
Potter seeks to be a trusted advisor, a part of the team that can be relied upon. She values open communication and will always be responsive to the needs of the business. When she's not working with one of her clients, she enjoys her free time with family and friends. She loves to travel, attend music concerts, and venture out to Fort Peck Lake to camp and boat in the summer months. She also likes to run and has competed in several 5K, 10K, and half marathon races.
28. Misty Parris
Vice President of Operations, Intermountain Healthcare
Misty Parris is the Vice President of Operations of Intermountain Healthcare. As the largest nonprofit health system in the Mountain West, Intermountain Health proudly invests back into improving the care it delivers, and its pioneering research is making healthcare more personalized, effective, and affordable.
Parris has 23 years of experience. She is a seasoned operations executive with a strong track record in the hospital and healthcare industry. She is a skilled business development professional with expertise in sales, US Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance, management, healthcare management, and leadership.
Before joining Intermountain Healthcare, Parris worked with PeaceHealth as a senior manager. She graduated from Western Governors University with an MBA in Health and Healthcare and from Oral Roberts University with an undergraduate degree in health services and allied health and health sciences.
29. Krista Lee Evans
Vice President of Government Relations, Calumet Specialty Products Partners LP
Krista Lee Evans is the Vice President of Government Relations for Calumet Specialty Products Partners LP. She first joined the team in 2024. Calumet makes ingredients for everyday products, ranging from lipstick to crayons to jet fuel.
Evans is an experienced executive with a proven history in the government relations industry. She is a strong entrepreneurship professional, skilled in politics, agriculture, water rights, government, issue management, and public speaking.
Previously, Evans was in government affairs at Northwest Farm Credit Services and the Montana Milk Producers Association. Earlier in her career, she was an owner and coach with FireTower CrossFit. Evans earned an undergraduate degree in agricultural business and economics from Montana State University-Bozeman.
30. Jann Butler
VP of People, onXmaps
Jann Butler is the VP of People for onXmaps. She is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the HR function at a fast-growing tech startup with employees in Montana and strategically distributed across the United States.
Butler has extensive experience in technology and e-commerce companies. She excels in partnering with executive leadership teams to drive initiatives across various business stages, including startups, growth, turnarounds, and mature organizations. She has successfully managed employee populations as large as 7,500 and led teams of up to 30 staff members. Butler has also served as a senior-level individual contributor and HR business partner for C-level executives. With a proven ability to transition seamlessly from strategy development to tactical execution, she has led full-cycle HR organizations.
Previously, Butler was the global vice president of human resources at Datalogic, where she served as the global executive HR business partner for C-suite executives, including the chief technology officer and global sales executives. Before that, she was the global HR leader for Amazon's Consumer Retail division. Earlier in her career, she worked as the global HR executive at Fluke Networks, a division of Danaher Corporation. Butler has a BS in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.
31. Suzanne Powell
Vice President of Performance Improvement, TeamHealth
Suzanne Powell is the Vice President of Performance Improvement at TeamHealth. At TeamHealth, their purpose is to perfect the practice of medicine every day, in everything they do. They are proud to be the leading physician practice in the US, driven by their commitment to quality and safety and supported by their world-class operating team.
Powell has been with TeamHealth for 24 years. Previously, she was the vice president of BPCI operations, where she played a key role in advancing clinical quality and operational excellence. Before that, she served as the vice president of operations. Earlier in her career, she worked as the director of value-added services, leading initiatives to enhance service offerings and operational efficiency.
Powell graduated from the University of Saint Francis with a Master's degree in Health Service Administration and from Converse University with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
32. Ashleigh George
President, Tamarack Insurance Agency
Ashleigh George is the President of Tamarack Insurance Agency. Tamarack Insurance is a family-owned business created to put Montana's families and families across the US back in charge of choosing their insurance needs. As an independent insurance agency, they shop the insurance market to find the best insurance at an affordable price.
Previously, George was with Aflac for nearly a decade. She was a district coordinator, where she led teams in delivering insurance solutions and managed regional operations. Before that, she worked as an independent insurance agent, building her expertise in providing personalized insurance services. Earlier in her career, she served as the regional coordinator at Aflac, where she continued to expand her leadership skills and influence within the company.
Her skills include team building, leadership, and insurance expertise. Additionally, she is experienced in management and health insurance, bringing a strong background in these areas to her professional roles. George graduated from Montana State University Billings with an undergraduate degree in psychology.
33. Shannon Ventittelli
Division Vice President, Learning Care Group
Shannon Ventittelli is the Division Vice President of Learning Care Group. She first joined the team in 2013 as a district manager. With nearly 60 years of experience, Learning Care Group prides itself on being a trusted provider of early learning and quality child care. Their top priority is keeping children safe and healthy while inspiring them to learn, grow, and reach their greatest potential.
Previously, Ventittelli served as the senior vice president of operations at Phoenix Children's Academy, where she led a team of district leaders managing 120 schools across the United States. In this role, she drove results that exceeded enrollment, growth, revenue, and profit targets for the organization. Before that, she was a district manager for Tutor Time Early Learning Centers in the Greater Phoenix Area, where she focused on improving the quality of care, obtaining NECPA Accreditation, and achieving high ratings with Quality First at the schools. Earlier in her career, she worked as a realtor with Keller Williams Professional Partners.
Ventittelli completed post-graduate courses in human resources development at Villanova University. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix.
34. Darlene Garner
Vice President of Client Services, Tyler Technologies
Darlene Garner is the Vice President of Client Services of Tyler Technologies, which provides integrated software and technology services to the public sector.
Garner has been with Tyler Technologies for nearly 26 years. Previously, she was the senior director of special projects, where she managed key initiatives and strategic projects across the organization. Before that, she served as the senior director of support services, overseeing a large team and ensuring the delivery of high-quality support to clients. Earlier in her career, she worked as the senior director of support services. Garner graduated from Western Governors University with an undergraduate degree in business administration and management.
35. Olson Evy
Vice President of Nursing Programs, Vizient, Inc
Olson Evy is the Vice President of Nursing Programs at Vizient, Inc. She first joined the team in 2013 as the senior director of performance improvement. Vizient, Inc., the nation's largest provider-driven healthcare performance improvement company, serves more than 65% of the nation's acute care providers, including 97% of the nation's academic medical centers and more than 35% of the non-acute market.
Evy is a senior healthcare executive with extensive experience in nursing, quality, compliance, and patient care. She is a visionary leader with exceptional skills as a change agent, leveraging innovative strategies to achieve business goals. She has demonstrated the ability to create and lead high-performing teams that deliver value-driven, sustainable solutions to achieve strategic outcomes. A highly motivated professional, Evy has a successful track record of building and maintaining effective relationships at all levels through teamwork and communication expertise, coupled with a results-driven focus on quality and nursing excellence.
Previously, Evy was a vice president of clinical excellence at Sanford Health. Earlier in her career, she worked with Bozeman Deaconess Health Services as a compliance officer. Evy earned an MBA in Health and Healthcare Administration and Management and a Master's degree in Nursing Science from the University of Mary. She has an undergraduate degree in nursing from the University of North Dakota.
36. Melissa Propp
Vice President of Operations, Datavant
Melissa Propp is the Vice President of Operations at Datavant, a data platform company for healthcare whose products and solutions enable organizations to move and connect data securely. Through proprietary technology, the world’s most robust healthcare network, and value-added services they protect, connect, and deliver the world’s health data.
Propp has 16 years of experience and a demonstrated history of working in the health information management industry. She is skilled in team building, business process optimization, management, healthcare management, healthcare, and leadership. Before joining Datavant, Propp was a vice president of global operations at Sharecare. Before that, she was a regional director of operations at Ciox Health. Earlier in her career, she worked with St Patrick's Hospital as a health information manager.
Propp graduated from Montana State University-Bozeman with an undergraduate degree in healthcare management. She holds a Six Sigma Green Belt and is an active member of both AHIMA and CHIMA.
37. Sara Becker
SVP & Director of Marketing & Communications, First Interstate
Sara Becker is the Senior Vice President and the Director of Marketing and Communications for First Interstate Bank, a $30 billion community bank based in Billings, Montana. First Interstate is a community bank that delivers best-in-class banking and wealth management services.
Becker has more than 20 years of industry experience. She started her career in 2001 as a PR specialist at Lodestone Advertising. From there, she went on to C.M. Russell Museum, before eventually rising to executive director at Ad Club and AAF, her most recent position before joining First Interstate.
A Great Falls, Montana native, Becker holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from Gonzaga University. She is a graduate of the American Bankers Association School of Bank Marketing and Management and served as Montana’s Lt. Governor for District XI of the American Advertising Federation.
38. Becky Seal
Executive Director- MM Financial Sponsors Group, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Becky Seal is the Executive Director for the MM Financial Sponsors Group at JPMorgan Chase & Co., one of the world's oldest, largest, and best-known financial institutions. Seal’s team designs cash management structures to help organizations maximize the utility of their liquidity and bank services. She is also fluent in German.
Seal’s previous role with JPMorgan Chase & Co. was the Midwest head of treasury sales and specialized industries, where she managed a team of sales professionals in 15 states covering healthcare, higher education, and not-for-profit clients. She first joined the team in 2019 as a relationship executive.
Previously, Seal was a vice president and C&I relationship manager at Regions Bank. Before that, she was a portfolio manager of corporate and investment banking at SunTrust Bank. Earlier in her career, she worked with AIMS Logistics as an account manager. Seal earned an MBA from Christian Brothers University and an undergraduate degree in business administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
39. Gina Montefusco
Director of People Development, UnitedHealth Group
Gina Montefusco is the Director of People Development at UnitedHealth Group. She first joined the team in 2021 as the associate director of people development. UnitedHealth Group is a healthcare and well-being company with a mission to help people live healthier lives and help make the health system work better for everyone.
In addition to focusing on leadership development, Montefusco has the opportunity to foster strategic partnerships, bringing clarity and direction to various development initiatives. Most recently, she has been working to create the first learning academy, which is focused on building skills related to improving quality outcomes across the enterprise. She partners with business and quality leaders in program design to create solutions that resonate with the unique dynamics of each team and individual within the organization.
Previously, Montefusco was the director of programs and business development at Marquis Leadership. Before that, she was a clinical healthcare planner and consultant at NBBJ Design. Earlier in her career, she worked with Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) as an RN. Montefusco earned a Master's degree in Nursing Administration from The University of Texas at Arlington and an undergraduate degree in psychology, human resource management, and nursing from Auburn University.
40. Erin Gockel
Women's Health Medical Director for MT Department of Veterans Affairs, US Department of Veterans Affairs
Erin Gockel is the Women's Health Medical Director for the MT Department of Veterans Affairs of the US Department of Veterans Affairs, a cabinet-level executive branch department of the federal government charged with providing lifelong healthcare services to eligible military veterans at the 170 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics located throughout the country.
Gockel has 20 years of experience. Before joining the VA, she was a nurse practitioner at the Indian Health Service. Before that, she was an emergency and trauma registered nurse (RN) at UAB Medicine. Earlier in her career, she worked with Farmers Insurance Company as a customer service representative.
Gockel graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with an MSN in Family Practice and an undergraduate degree in nursing. She also has an undergraduate degree in history, religious studies, and liberal arts from the University of California, Davis.
41. Hannah Peter
Director of Contract Lifecycle Management, Cognizant
Hannah Peter is the Director of Contract Lifecycle Management at Cognizant. Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation is an American multinational corporation specializing in information technology services, consulting, and business process outsourcing.
Peter started her career in 2008 as an administrative assistant at Missoula Independent. From there, she went on to Problem Solved, LLC, before eventually rising to office administrator at St. Peter Law Offices, P.C., her most recent position before joining Cognizant.
Peter graduated from the University of Montana with an MBA and from Montana State University-Bozeman with an undergraduate degree in political science, government, and business administration.
42. Kathy Matosich
Director of Content Design, Meta
Kathy Matosich is the Director of Content Design at Meta. In this role, she is a content designer focused on internal standards, education, and support workshops. Additionally, she supports generative AI initiatives with an emphasis on transparency and education.
Matosich has 21 years of professional experience. Her work, informed by user research, data, and product testing, encompasses UI writing and design, as well as creating scalable frameworks and standards. She has experience ranging from information architecture (IA) to artificial intelligence (AI). Previously, Matosich was a UX content strategy manager at Facebook. Before that, she was an information specialist at the University of Washington’s Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology. Earlier in her career, she worked with NBC Montana as a production manager.
Matosich graduated from the University of Washington with a Master of Communication in Digital Media and from Montana State University-Bozeman with an undergraduate degree in film and television.
43. Kara Schwalbe
Director Program Delivery, Nike
Kara Schwalbe is the Director of Program Delivery at Nike. NIKE, Inc. is a purpose-driven organization energized by a shared commitment to move the world forward through the power of sport. They champion diversity and amplify individual passions to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world.
Schwalbe first joined Nike in 2015 as a sustainability integration manager. She has also served as the director of the global outbound transportation strategy and last-mile capability development. Previously, Schwalbe was an LGO Fellow at Dell. Earlier in her career, she was an analyst at National Grid.
Schwalbe earned an MBA and an MS in Engineering Systems Division from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, an undergraduate degree in environmental and mechanical engineering from Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth College, and an undergraduate degree in engineering services from Dartmouth College.
44. Julie Tomasik
Director, Talent Acquisition, AAA Northern California Nevada & Utah
Julie Tomasik is the Director of Talent Acquisition for AAA in Northern California, Nevada, and Utah. In this role, she is responsible for leading recruiting efforts and developing innovative strategies to significantly improve the talent acquisition process within the organization.
Tomasik is passionate about creating a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence, where employees are valued, engaged, and motivated. She has over 15 years of leadership experience in the insurance and mobility industry, with a focus on building high-performing teams and driving strategic initiatives.
Her mission is to support the communication strategy, organizational learning, and change management that align with the company's vision and goals. Tomasik constantly seeks cutting-edge techniques to push her teams to their highest potential. She also enjoys building lasting stakeholder relationships, solving complex problems, and delivering impactful results for the community.
45. Anne Dingerson
Senior Director of North America Sales Programs &Global Services, Global Public Sector, Salesforce
Anne Dingerson is the Senior Director of North America Sales Programs and Global Services for the Global Public Sector of Salesforce, an American cloud-based software company that provides customer relationship management (CRM) software and applications focused on sales, customer service, marketing automation, e-commerce, analytics, and application development.
Dingerson has two decades of professional experience and is a sales-oriented marketing leader with over 15 years of experience in program execution, business development, and digital marketing across the technology, healthcare, and government sectors. Known for her exceptional Midwest work ethic, she consistently delivers proven results. Her strengths include relationship building, communications, and demand generation. She specializes in customer-centric messaging and content development, channel execution strategy, and delivering technical and dynamic presentations to executive, customer, and internal audiences.
Before joining Salesforce, Dingerson was a consultant in the Customer Experience practice at Capgemini. Before that, she was a field marketing manager at Oracle. Earlier in her career, she worked with the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce as a membership and programs coordinator. Dingerson graduated from the University of St. Thomas with an undergraduate degree in business communication.
46. Sarah Fox
Director of Product Digital Strategy, Mayo Clinic
Sarah Fox is the Director of Product Digital Strategy at the Mayo Clinic, a top-ranked hospital in the US that specializes in integrated healthcare, education, and research. Fox is an accomplished digital leader who has built her career around leveraging data and technology to create large-scale, consumer-centric solutions that drive measurable results. She is passionate about solving problems and identifying ways technology can simplify lives and address users' needs. With proven expertise in developing and executing innovative product strategies, she consistently drives transformation and aligns executive teams around a unified vision.
Fox started her career in 2005 as a marketing analyst in direct marketing at Target. From there, she eventually rose to director of product management at UnitedHealth Group, her most recent position before joining the Mayo Clinic. Fox graduated from Wisconsin School of Business with an undergraduate degree in marketing, and supply chain management.
47. Megan Corriz
Area Director, Sevita
Megan Corriz is the Area Director for Sevita, the leading provider of home and community-based specialty healthcare, with 40,000 employees proudly serving over 50,000 individuals.
Corriz has 18 years of experience, including handling confidential information, company secretarial work, and receptionist duties. She is skilled in letter writing and customer service. A true team player, her abilities also include appointment scheduling.
Previously, Corriz was a regional operations director at Bridges of Montana, where she successfully led regional operations and implemented strategies to improve service delivery. Before that, she was a client services field supervisor at Bridges of Montana, overseeing client services and ensuring high-quality support for individuals in her care. Earlier in her career, she worked as an aide at Supports Techniques Empowering People for 10 years.
48. Kitty Ortman
Training Center Director, USDA Forest Service
Kitty Ortman is the Training Center Director of the USDA Forest Service. The United States Forest Service is an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture that administers the nation's 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands, which encompass 193 million acres.
As the acting manager of the Northern Rockies Training Center, Ortman coordinates a program that provides leadership, fire ecology, fire management, and emergency management courses to natural resource management professionals. In addition to this role, she serves as the geographic area training representative and the Region 1 Forest Service training officer. She also facilitates the Northern Rockies Coordinating Group as their executive secretary.
Ortman started her career in 1993 as a Missoula dispatch center manager at Lolo National Forest. From there, she eventually rose to wildland fire training center manager at the University of Montana, her most recent position before joining the USDA Forest Service. Ortman graduated from the University of Montana with an undergraduate degree in cellular biology.
49. Tammi Hebnes
Senior Director of Industry & Solution Strategy, Program Management, Infor
Tammi Hebnes is the Senior Director of Industry and Solution Strategy in Program Management at Infor. She first joined the team in 2012 as the senior director of Americas field marketing. Infor is a multinational company headquartered in New York City that provides industry-specific, enterprise software licensed for use on-premises or as a service.
With years of leadership success in inspiring employees and managing resources in the hospitality, software, and retail sales industries, Hebnes focuses on customer satisfaction through efficient, timely, and accurate communication and project execution. One of her greatest strengths is the ability to analyze processes, determine the necessary course of action to deliver quality products and services on time and tailor her communication to resonate with each audience's unique listening style.
Previously, Hebnes was a director of product marketing at Infor-SoftBrands. Before that, she was a director of program management at SoftBrands. Earlier in her career, she worked with CLS Software, currently DBA SoftBrands, as a director of product management. Hebnes has an undergraduate degree in business from California State University, Fullerton.
50. Noreen Humes
Director of Development, Ecology Project International
Noreen Humes is the Director of Development for Ecology Project International (EPI), a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing place-based, ecological education partnerships between local experts and high school students to address critical conservation issues. EPI’s mission is to improve and inspire science education and conservation efforts worldwide through field-based student-scientist partnerships.
Humes has 10 years of experience. Before joining Ecology Project International, she was an executive director at Habitat for Humanity of Missoula. Before that, she was a community development director at Downtown Missoula Partnership. Earlier in her career, she was the founder and owner of Terra Firma Consulting.
Humes graduated from the University of Montana with a Master of Science and from California State University-Sacramento with an undergraduate degree.