Nicole Hazelbaker to Receive Montana Western Friends of Education Award

The University of Montana Western will honor longtime campus leader Nicole Hazelbaker with the Friends of Education Award during the Night of Stars – Education Hall of Fame celebration. The event will be held on April 25, 2026, in the Lewis and Clark Room on the Montana Western campus.

A Dillon native, Hazelbaker began her career at Montana Western in 1994 as the campus operator. Over the course of her career, she served in several key roles, including Residence Life Director and later Dean of Students, where she worked closely with students and helped shape the campus experience for generations of Bulldogs.

Hazelbaker earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Western Montana College and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Throughout her time at Montana Western, she valued the opportunity to support and learn alongside students, building lasting relationships with both students and colleagues across campus.

“I loved working and learning with the students,” Hazelbaker said. “Being a part of their accomplishments and watching them succeed in their dreams has been the most rewarding part of my career.”

University officials noted that Hazelbaker’s dedication, compassion, and steady leadership have left a lasting impact on the Montana Western community. Her commitment to student success and campus life has helped shape the experiences of countless students during her tenure.

Hazelbaker and her husband, Todd, and daughter Charli, are actively connected to Montana Western and the Dillon Community.

The Night of Stars – Education Hall of Fame celebration honors individuals whose contributions have significantly strengthened Montana Western and enriched the educational experiences of its students.

Tickets for the event are available at https://tinyurl.com/UMWNOS26 or by contacting the Montana Western Foundation at 406-683-7306. Seating is limited, and advance purchase is encouraged.