Three Lake County graduates among elite MSU class

Erich Dale of Big Arm, Sam Fowler of Arlee and Jess Pepion of Polson are among 50 high school graduates from across Montana who are among the sixth class of Montana State University’s Hilleman Scholars Program.

The program is named after Maurice Hilleman, one of the state’s most influential, but least known, native sons.

Hilleman Scholars are eligible for up to $6,500 in academic support for their first year and $4,000 per year thereafter. If they make satisfactory academic progress and demonstrate exemplary commitment to the program in their first three years, scholars can become eligible for an additional $3,000 at the end of their junior year to apply toward a study abroad experience. Hilleman Scholars are expected to graduate in four years.

The MSU Hilleman Scholars Program begins with a monthlong Summer Success Academy on the MSU campus. The intensive program, administered through the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success, is designed to boost college-level math, writing and critical thinking skills and to equip students with effective learning strategies for the coming academic year.

Academic support continues for Hilleman Scholars throughout their years at MSU. Beyond access to some of the university’s top faculty, this includes tutoring, mentoring, advising and more. By their third year, Hilleman Scholars are expected to pass this support on by serving as mentors and tutors to new students.

During the school year, Hilleman Scholars must engage in 10 hours per week of activities designed to prepare them to be a successful student, intern or employee. The focus of these experiences shifts each year as the students progress through college.

This year’s Hilleman Scholars come from 31 communities across Montana.