The Montana Athletes in Service (MAIS) Award recognizes outstanding collegiate student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their communities through volunteer service. Nominated by their colleges’ athletic directors, these remarkable students go above and beyond their commitments in the classroom and on the field, court, or track. Through their generosity, leadership, and willingness to serve, they embody the spirit of community engagement and inspire those around them. We proudly celebrate their accomplishments, their commitment to others, and the lasting difference they make in their communities.
Our 2025 Awardees
Kayle Addison
Little Big Horn College | Women’s Basketball
Kayle Addison
Little Big Horn College | Women’s Basketball
Kayle is a dedicated student-athlete at Little Big Horn College who balances academics, athletics, and raising two children with an inspiring commitment to service. From organizing fundraisers, campus events, and Pow Wow activities to delivering food and assisting neighbors in need, she gives back with remarkable kindness and energy. Originally from the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming, Kayle hopes to bring more joy, connection, and opportunities to her community. Her philosophy is beautifully simple: Helping people is “just what people should do.”
Cameron Blevins
Miles Community College | Volleyball
Cameron Blevins
Miles Community College | Volleyball
Cameron “Cam” Blevins is a dedicated student leader at Miles Community College, serving as Student Senate President while giving back to the communities that shaped her. From coaching youth swimming and volleyball to supporting food pantries, community meals, and local events, Cam brings enthusiasm and compassion to everything she does. Passionate about health, wellness, and working with children, she finds joy in helping others learn, laugh, and grow. Through her service, Cam exemplifies leadership, gratitude, and a genuine commitment to others.
Tori Murnion
Montana Western | Rodeo
Tori Murnion
Montana Western | Rodeo
Tori is a senior business student and rodeo athlete whose dedication to leadership and service shines throughout her campus and community. A former student senator, she actively supports student organizations and helps coordinate volunteers for the Dillon Jaycees’ annual Labor Day Rodeo. Devoting 5–10 hours each week to service, Tori balances academic excellence with a remarkable commitment to others. Known by her teammates for her reliability and selflessness, she leads by example and inspires those around her.
Kennedy Venner
Carroll College | Softball
Kennedy Venner
Carroll College | Softball
Kennedy Venner is a senior softball player at Carroll College studying Elementary and Special Education. With over 150 hours of service annually, she supports students with disabilities, assists with Montana Special Olympics, and leads campus initiatives including food, clothing, and blood drives. As a student-athlete navigating her own health challenges, Kennedy exemplifies resilience, compassion, and leadership. Her dedication to education, inclusion, and community service reflects her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Talya Undem
Dawson Community College | Softball
Talya Undem
Dawson Community College | Softball
Tayla Undem is a sophomore softball player at Dawson Community College studying Animal Science and Livestock Production. Beginning her volunteer journey at just seven years old, she has dedicated over 11 years to serving her community through 4-H, school organizations, church activities, and campus service projects. From organizing care packages to supporting youth programs, Tayla finds joy in giving back to her hometown, building meaningful connections, and developing skills that will serve her throughout her life.
Walker Burshia
Fort Peck Community College | Basketball
Walker Burshia
Fort Peck Community College | Basketball
Walker Burshia is a freshman at Fort Peck Community College studying Welding Technology and playing basketball for the FPCC Buffalo Chasers. Already known as a dependable campus leader, Walker serves on the Student Senate, supports food drives, and advocates for student engagement. He also dedicates 5–10 hours each week to volunteering, including coaching youth at local basketball and football camps. Through his service, Walker demonstrates a commitment to his community while inspiring teamwork, leadership, and civic responsibility.
Owen Smith
MSU Northern | Basketball
Owen Smith
MSU Northern | Basketball
Owen Smith is a senior at MSU-Northern studying Health and Physical Education and playing men’s basketball. Dedicated to serving his community, Owen volunteers at youth sports camps, holiday events, charity fundraisers, and local athletic programs. From helping move over two tons of books at the Havre-Hill County Library to participating in community cleanups, he consistently lends a hand wherever needed. Through his generosity and commitment to service, Owen embodies the spirit of community involvement and teamwork.
Colton Seymour
Salish Kootenai College | Basketball
Colton Seymour
Salish Kootenai College | Basketball
Colton Seymour is a sophomore at Salish Kootenai College studying Fish and Wildlife and playing basketball. Dedicated to giving back, Colton volunteers weekly at the campus food pantry and leads youth basketball camps throughout the summer. Contributing 2–4 hours of service each week, he helps support fellow students while inspiring the next generation of athletes. Believing that strong communities help shape young people, Colton demonstrates the importance of service, mentorship, and community involvement.
Justus Peterson
Montana Technological University | Football, Track & Field, Rodeo
Justus Peterson
Montana Technological University | Football, Track & Field, Rodeo
Justus Peterson is a senior at Montana Tech studying Construction Management and Metal Fabrication while competing in football, track and field, and rodeo. As co-president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, he organizes blood drives, food drives, and youth outreach activities. He also volunteers at football camps and elementary schools and has been matched as a potential stem cell or bone marrow donor for a leukemia patient. Guided by his motto, “Leave it better than you found it,” Justus exemplifies leadership, generosity, and community pride.
Blaine Shaw
Flathead Valley Community College | Logger Sports
Blaine Shaw
Flathead Valley Community College | Logger Sports
Blaine Shaw is a sophomore at Flathead Valley Community College studying Natural Resources and competing in Logger Sports. Passionate about conservation and community service, Blaine volunteers in trail maintenance, campus cleanups, nonprofit fundraisers, and forestry education events. Having volunteered since childhood, he values hands-on work and the lasting impact of caring for shared spaces. Through his dedication, Blaine hopes to inspire others to get involved, enjoy the outdoors, and leave their communities better than they found them.
Brooke Stayner
University of Montana | Track and Field
Brooke Stayner
University of Montana | Track and Field
Brooke Stayner is a graduate student at the University of Montana studying Integrative Physiology and Exercise Science while competing in track and field. A Missoula native, she has dedicated over 150 hours to serving her community through hospital volunteering, youth mentorship, and local outreach. As a stem cell donor and ambassador for the “Get in the Game” initiative, Brooke inspires others to give the gift of life. Above all, she hopes to be remembered not for her achievements, but for how she made others feel.
Nova Rosman
MSU Billings | Cheer & Stunt
Nova Rosman
MSU Billings | Cheer & Stunt
Nova Rosman is a senior at Montana State University Billings studying Outdoor Adventure Leadership and competing in Cheer & Stunt. Throughout her four years as a Yellowjacket, she has supported student scholarships, volunteered at the Billings food bank, and mentored young athletes through local cheerleading camps and clinics. Passionate about helping others succeed, Nova uses her love of cheerleading to inspire children, promote healthy activities, and strengthen her community through service.
Amelio Blackhorse
Chief Dull Knife College | Basketball, Indian Relay, Rodeo
Amelio Blackhorse
Chief Dull Knife College | Basketball, Indian Relay, Rodeo
Amelio Blackhorse is a freshman at Chief Dull Knife College studying General Studies and competing in basketball, Indian Relay, and rodeo. A dedicated mentor, he supports campus activities, teaches archery, volunteers at youth rodeos, and helps preserve cultural traditions through the Morning Star Riders. Drawing on his experience with horses, Amelio inspires young people on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation to develop confidence, resilience, and pride in their heritage. His service reflects a deep commitment to community, culture, and future generations.
Taylee Chirrick
Montana State University | Basketball
Taylee Chirrick
Montana State University | Basketball
Taylee Chirrick is a sophomore basketball player studying K–12 Health and Physical Education. With over 100 hours of volunteer service in the past year, she dedicates her time to supporting children in elementary schools and after-school programs. Believing that every young person deserves guidance and encouragement, Taylee strives to be the kind of mentor who helps others reach their full potential. Her compassion, leadership, and dedication to Montana’s youth reflect the true spirit of community service.
