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Bear With Us Podcast
Join hosts Sara and Julea as they explore the people, places, and stories that make Montana’s Hi-Line unforgettable. Bear With Us is a podcast from Bear Paw Development that highlights the charm, culture, and community spirit across five counties and two tribal nations in North Central Montana.
From hometown heroes and local legends to quirky events and hidden gems, each episode offers a fresh perspective on life along the Hi-Line. Whether you’re a longtime local or just curious about this vast and beautiful region, you’re invited to laugh, learn, and discover what makes this place more than just a dot on the map.
And don’t worry—there are zero bears. Probably.
Bear With Us Podcast
Investing in Students, Investing in Community: An Interview With Melanie Skoyen
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🎙️ Bear With Us Podcast | MSU Northern, Morgan Hall & Building the Future
Welcome back to Bear With Us, the podcast from Bear Paw Development where we highlight the people, projects, and partnerships shaping North Central Montana.
In this episode, Julea is joined by guest co-host Stephanie Larson to talk all things MSU Northern—from student experiences to the powerful impact of investing in higher education. They sit down with Melanie Skoyen, Managing Director of the Northern Alumni Foundation, to discuss how alumni, community members, and donors are helping shape the future of campus life.
🏫 In this episode, we cover:
The mission and impact of the Northern Alumni Foundation
The exciting renovation campaign for Morgan Hall
How campus improvements support student success and retention
The role MSU Northern plays in strengthening the Hi-Line economy
Opportunities for alumni, businesses, and community members to get involved
💡 You’ll also hear personal stories about what makes Northern special—from lifelong connections to unforgettable college memories (including hiding from a storm in a stranger’s basement 😅).
💙 Whether you're an alum, a community member, or just curious about the future of rural education, this episode highlights how investing in students today builds stronger communities tomorrow.
🔗 Learn more or get involved:
Visit the Northern Alumni Foundation website or stop by their office in Cowan Hall on campus.
👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support local stories and voices!
#BearWithUs #MSUNorthern #HiLineMontana #HigherEducation #CommunityDevelopment #Montana