Meet our Leadership Team

Dan began his role as Director of the Leadership Institute in April of 2024. His background is in leadership development, with a focus on outdoor leadership. He directed the MSU Outdoor Recreation Program for seven years previously.  Dan believes that Leadership Development is a life-changing process and is thrilled to be able to provide opportunities for all students to learn and practice leadership across the University and beyond.  

Kass graduated in May of 2024 with a degree Cell Biology & Neuroscience with minors in Global Health and Hispanic Studies. Born and raised just outside of Denver, Colorado, she developed a love for the city and the outdoors. Kass's passion for leadership began with positions as Class President and Vice president in student government and head of an annual Relay For Life event in her home county; she is honored to lead the team of incredible students that work at the Leadership Institute.Kass also serves as co-founder and instructor of English Para Todos, and volunteers as a survivor advocate at the MSU Voice Center. If Kass isn't in the office she is probably somewhere reading a good book, enjoying a coffee shop, or partaking in one of the many outdoor activities Bozeman has to offer.

Ignacio is a transfer student from Buenos Aires pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business with a minor in Sociology. With an undergraduate degree in Physical Education, I decided to make a big change in my life when I discovered a passion for nature and the question of how we can produce food in a sustainable and profitable way. After traveling and working in different countries and industries, I have seen that the main predictor of a successful project is good communication and purpose. I have volunteered for non-profits building pre-built houses in rural and developing communities in Buenos Aires. When I am not studying, I spend a lot of time at the gym, practicing martial arts, skiing, and gardening. My main passion is engaging in conversations and listening to new ideas and different points of view that help nurture and deepen my understanding of the world.  

Amy is from Boise, Idaho and pursuing a degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience. She has hopes of going to medical school to become a surgeon to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, regardless of their background. By adventuring through Idaho, Amy has grown to love the outdoors and finds Montana to be a great fit for her. With an open heart she embraces every opportunity to make new friendships and enjoys spending time with others. Outside of school she loves to be involved in her community, be outside or read a good book. Through the Leadership Institute she is hoping to venture beyond her comfort zone, create connections and contribute to the continuous improvement of MSU. 

Madison is a freshman from Coeur d’Alene, ID studying Environmental Design Architecture. In her free time, she enjoys working out, cooking, and playing piano. She is excited to work with the Leadership Institute at MSU and create a positive impact in the community.

Peyton Collings is a first year student at Montana State where she is pursuing her undergraduate degree in the College of Letters and Science for Psychology. After completion of her courses at MSU she has intentions to pursue a Master’s degree in Psychology. Born and raised in New Jersey, she is a fan of city life, however wants to establish her future home in the country. Growing up in a small town about twenty minutes outside of New York City, she realized that extraordinary leaders are what keep communities safe and committed to growth. Peyton is passionate about journeying within to become the best possible version of oneself and creating intimate communities. Outside of her studies you can find Peyton reading a novel, hiking or grabbing a bite to eat! She is excited to be working with the Leadership Institute this semester, where she can learn the necessary knowledge to be a leader in today’s society, as well as have the ability to stand up for other student’s voices.