Dr. Janelle Handlos to Receive Alumni Distinguished Service Award

The University of Montana Western’s 129th Annual Commencement Ceremony, to be held on Saturday, May 9, will honor Dr. Janelle Handlos with the University’s Alumni Distinguished Service Award.

Janelle Handlos attended the University of Montana Western from 1996–2000, earning a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a major in Physical Education and Health, a minor in English, and an emphasis in Sports Medicine. She went on to earn a Master of Science in Health and Human Development from Montana State University in 2001 and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana in 2014.

Janelle began her professional career at Montana Western in 2001 as the university’s first assistant athletic trainer and an instructor in the physical education and health program. During more than two decades of service to the university, she has played a vital role in both athletics and academics. Following the retirement of her mentor, Dave Kendall, she became Head Athletic Trainer, later served as Interim Athletic Director, and helped establish the Department of Health & Human Performance. In 2015, she transitioned into a full-time, tenure-track faculty position and has since served as department chair, Interim Director of Athletics, part-time licensed athletic trainer, and an active member and chair of numerous campus committees.

Beyond campus, Janelle has been deeply engaged in the Dillon community. She is currently the track and field coach at Beaverhead County High School, has served as a guest speaker for local schools and youth programs, volunteered with the American Red Cross, and contributed to organizations including P.E.O., the Montana Athletic Trainers Association, and the Northwest Athletic Trainers Association. Her past service also includes the Dillon Jaycees, Beaverhead Little League coach and Safety Officer, the Southwestern Montana Community Health Center Board of Directors, Dillon Area Love INC, and volunteer medical support for the Beaverhead Marathon. She also works as an athletic trainer for Intermountain Health and as a group exercise instructor at the YMCA.

Her dedication to students and service has earned numerous honors, including the Northwest Athletic Trainers’ Association ElevATe Award (2024), University of Montana Western Athletics Hall of Fame – Meritorious Service (2022), Montana Athletic Trainers’ Association State Recognition Award (2021), Frontier Conference Athletic Trainer of the Year (2015), and induction into both the Montana Athletic Trainers’ Association and University of Montana Athletic Training Halls of Fame (2016), among many others.

Janelle and her husband, Keith (UMW Class of 2001), are the parents of Taylor, a current Montana Western student-athlete. Throughout her career, Janelle has been known for her steady leadership, genuine care for students, and willingness to do whatever is needed to support the Montana Western community.

“We are honored to recognize Dr. Janelle Handlos with the 2026 Montana Western Alumni Distinguished Service Award. Her lasting impact on students, campus programs, and the Dillon community reflects her commitment to service, leadership, and Montana Western,” said UMW Foundation and Alumni Director Roxanne Engellant.

Janelle will also be recognized during a special luncheon on Friday, May 8, at 11:30 a.m. in the Lewis and Clark Room, held in conjunction with the 50- and 25-year reunions for the Classes of 1976 and 2001. The luncheon is offered at a reduced rate of $10 per person, thanks to the generous support of the UMW Foundation Board. To RSVP, please call Kelly Allen at 406-683-7306. Following the luncheon, a guided campus tour will be available, and guests are invited to attend the Legacy Plaza Celebration at 3:30 p.m. Alumni are also invited to attend Commencement on Saturday, May 9, at 10:00 a.m. in Bulldog Stadium.

For more information, please contact Jolene Robbins in the Montana Western Foundation and Alumni Office at 406-683-7303 or jjolene.robbins@umwestern.edu.