Montana Western Establishes KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship
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The University of Montana Western has established the KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship in memory of Kimberly “KG” Giannone, honoring her commitment to environmental action, hard work, and science communication.
Created by family and friends, the scholarship will provide four $1,000 awards annually to students pursuing degrees in Environmental Sustainability, Environmental Sciences, or Natural Resource Science. Beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, one award will be given each year to an incoming freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior. Recipients may be eligible to renew the scholarship for up to four years.
The scholarship recognizes students who are enrolled full-time, in good standing, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0, with preference given to those who embody Giannone’s spirit and perseverance in overcoming challenges.
Giannone, a non-traditional student at Montana Western, was known for her determination and deep commitment to learning. She fully embraced the university’s experiential learning model, dedicating long hours to coursework and developing skills in writing, mathematics, and technical programs such as Excel, MATLAB, and ArcGIS Pro. Her hard work earned her a 4.0 GPA along with numerous awards and honors.
Beyond the classroom, Giannone was passionate about understanding and sharing the natural world. A gifted storyteller and photographer, she focused on documenting the experiences of people and their connection to the land, including projects highlighting land stewardship in Southwest Montana. Her authenticity and enthusiasm left a lasting impact on those around her.
The inaugural recipients of the KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year are:
Donatella LaRusso, an incoming freshman from Pennsylvania, plans to study environmental sustainability with a focus on ecotourism. Her goal is to connect people to nature while supporting mental well-being and sustainable land stewardship.
Grady Nardinger and Tristian Von Bargen, both majoring in Environmental Sciences, are recognized for their leadership, academic dedication, and active involvement in campus and community life.
Carter Petre, a junior in Environmental Science, is honored for his strong work ethic, leadership in athletics, and commitment to natural resource management.
Madyson Currie, a senior in Environmental Sustainability, is recognized for her focus on water resources and her commitment to protecting and restoring freshwater ecosystems.
A public art exhibit honoring Giannone’s work will also be on display in Montana Western’s Fine Arts Gallery until May 6. Titled The Works of Kim Giannone, the exhibit features work from several series, including Sweat and Sagebrush, The Early Years, journals, and other draft prints. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00–11:00 a.m. and 12:00–3:00 p.m.
Those interested in supporting the scholarship may contribute online
For more information about the KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship, Contact UMW Foundation Executive Director, Roxanne Engellant at Roxanne.Engellant@umwestern.edu.