Theresa Rader
Executive Director
Institute for Educational Opportunities
Theresa, a proud Butte native currently serves our student body as the Executive Director of the Institute for Educational Opportunities at Montana Technological University in Butte, MT. Previously she was Director of TRIO Student Support Services STEM since 2015, and the previous six years served as TRIO Coordinator for Upward Bound and Talent Search.
As a first-generation student, she received BA’s in English and Communications from the University of Jamestown. She is a former Montana ASPIRE President and currently serves as the Past President of the ASPIRE Region and as The Council for Opportunities in Education Board Secretary.
In addition to TRIO, Theresa co-founded the Montana Tech STEM Academy, assisted in creating an endowed scholarship for first-generation students, serves on the Veterans Task Force and is a member of Indigenous Mentoring Program at Montana Tech.
Outside of her professional commitments you will find her serving on several community boards.
Rose James
Administrative Assistant
Rose began working at the Institute for Educational Opportunities in 2022. Her job involves handling the administrative support duties of 5 different grant programs. This work gives her the opportunity to interact with staff, our amazing students, and learn something new every day.
Previously she spent 4 years working for the Butte Public School system and before that, 12 years owning and operating her own business. She is a lifelong Butte resident and the proud mother of 4 children and 4 grandchildren.
When not frantically doing paperwork at her desk, she can be found at home with her best dog friend Baby Blue, researching Butte history, collecting crystals and other cool rocks or traveling.
Michael Torpey
Volunteer Extraordinaire
Michael Torpey, mightily shreds paper in his volunteer service to the Montana Tech TRIO programs at the Institute for Educational Opportunities. It is his job, which he takes quite seriously. His jolly, friendly attitude rubs co-workers and supervisors the right way, every day.
Michael was awarded the TRIO SSS-STEM Volunteer of the year
by the Institute staff and Chancellor Les Cook.
“Michael serves as a phenomenal example to students that academic achievement and good citizenry is not a result of birth, but more so of the effort and energy one puts into nurturing themselves, like we tell students when we are recruiting, if you have a high want-to, then we want you.”
Mainstreamed, socially adept and independent, Michael eagerly jumps at the chance to take coffee breaks. He mingles with Montana Tech students at the Student Union Building and during Upward Bound summer programs. He’s a dynamo when it comes to working, playing multiple sports, cheering on Tech teams and, of course, socializing.
Carissa Johnson
Program Director
TRIO Student Support Services STEM
Carissa joined Montana Technological University as Director of TRIO Student Support Services STEM in 2024 as a new Montana resident. Prior to her role with the Institute, Carissa lived and worked in Minnesota, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” and brings 10 years of experience working in higher education. In her previous role, Carissa served as a TRIO SSS Academic Advisor and First Year Experience faculty member for eight years at Anoka-Ramsey Community College in Cambridge, Minnesota.
Carissa finds deep fulfillment in providing students of diverse backgrounds with holistic support and brings expertise in the areas of culturally relevant and trauma-informed pedagogies, experiential education, restorative justice, grant writing, small group facilitation, and outdoor leadership. She has served on numerous campus and statewide committees including those focused on scholarship review, state and federal advocacy, professional development, diversity and inclusion strategic planning, and the First Year Experience and Basic Needs for Students in Crisis task forces.
Carissa holds a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies, Human Relations, and Multicultural Education, both from St. Cloud State University. In her free time, Carissa enjoys time with family, reading, photography, hiking, skiing, kayaking, and exploring wilderness areas. You will likely find her recreating in the outdoors and spending time discovering Montana’s beautiful backcountry.”
Tom Reget
TRIO Digital Content Creator
SSS Student Advisor and Montana 10 Advisor
TRIO Student Support Services STEM
Tom, a First-Generation Montana Technological University Grad, began working with the TRIO Student Support Services STEM program in 2018. He came to the Institute after 16 years in broadcast television, and another 16 years travelling the highways and byways of this great land producing safety training and reclamation videos for the mining industry.
Working with members of the TRIO programs housed within the Institute allows Tom to give something back to students and his Alma Mater. Tom spends his days mainly assisting students navigate the college experience through to graduation and is also SSS’s Digital Content Creator promoting our programs at MTU and beyond through campus & community outreach, maintains the Institute’s website, but enjoys interacting with our students the most, students whose talents continue to amaze.
When not at work, you can find Tom on the golf course, working on remodeling projects at home, maybe golfing or probably golfing.
Rachel Powers
SSS Academic Success Coach/Advisor and Montana 10 Advisor
TRIO Student Support Services STEM
Rachel is a Butte native who has always been connected to her community and has a passion for its history. After high school, she started her college journey at Montana Technological University and then transferred to The University of Montana, where she graduated with two bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Criminology in May 2024.
Montana Technological University was a massive part of her life growing up. From a young age, she attended Kid College and science camps in the summer. Then, she attended the campus as a student and worked on campus as a student worker. Her passion for education and community has now come full circle.
She’s thrilled to support students through the TRIO Student Support Services and Montana 10 programs, helping others achieve academic success while giving back to the university that played an essential role in her life.
Arielle Coleman
Program Director
TRIO Upward Bound & Upward Bound/Math-Science
Arielle is the Director for Upward Bound and Upward Bound/Math-Science Programs. Arielle previously served as the Butte High Coordinator for Upward Bound and Upward Bound/Math-Science.
Originally from Johnson City, TN, she moved to Montana in January 2022. She received her Bachelor in English and her Master’s in Education at Milligan University prior to her move. She is currently working on her Master’s in Social Work through the University of Montana.
Prior to working with Montana Tech, she was a high school English, Science, and Social Studies teacher in Memphis, TN, and here in Montana. She has a strong passion for education and looks forward to working with the scholars in the Upward Bound and Upward Bound/Math-Science programs.
Kaitlyn Kerr
Associate Director
TRIO Upward Bound and Upward Bound/Math-Science
Kaitlyn is the Math Science Upward Bound Associate Director for Butte High School.
Kaitlyn graduated from Laurel High School as a Talent Search Scholar through MSUB. She recently graduated from Montana Technical University with a bachelor’s degree in business and information technology. As a TRIO SSS student and student employee in college she was exposed to the local Upward Bound students and had a desire to continue working with them after graduation.
She credits her success in college to all the help she received through TRIO programs and would love to do the same for other students.
Jeni Mason
Anaconda Jr./Senior High School Program Coordinator
TRIO Upward Bound
Lacey Walker
Helena High School Program Coordinator
TRIO Upward Bound and Upward Bound/Math-Science
Lacey is the Upward Bound/Upward Bound Math Science Program Coordinator for the Helena schools. Originally from Montana’s Hi-Line, she has called Helena home since 2005. A first-generation college graduate, she attended Montana Tech and The University of Montana-Western.
While attending Tech, Lacey worked with Upward Bound and GEAR UP students, sparking her passion for supporting students on their paths to higher education. She later spent nearly a decade as an educator in Helena, teaching adult education and working with a diverse student population to help them achieve their college and career goals. Now, she is excited to return to Montana Tech and continue working with Upward Bound students, helping them navigate their own educational journeys.
Lacey loves exploring Montana’s backroads and would happily spend every day in her canoe. When the weather keeps her at home, you can find her playing pinball and cribbage.
Dr. Kristi Bailey
Program Director
TRIO Talent Search
Kristi is the Director of Montana Technological University’s two TRIO Talent Search Programs. She brings us over 20 years of education experience as an instructor, program director, account executive/recruiter, with the University of Montana, Montana Technological University, and Grand Canyon University. She has taught Surgical Technology, Healthcare Informatics, Marketing, Business Courses, Accounting, and even Sports Management Courses. She has her PhD in Social & Community Services/Public Service Leadership from Capella University. In addition, she has her MBA/MSL from Grand Canyon University.
She has a passion for education. Kristi enjoys helping people find the path to achieve their dreams through education by guiding them along the way through the obstacles put before them.
Kristi has volunteered her time and knowledge to many local organizations including, Vigilante Rodeo & Saddle Club for 4 years, Silver Bow County 4-H for over 16 years, and now serves as the Treasurer for Upper Clark Fork Back Country Horsemen. She is an avid horseman who enjoys sharing her love and knowledge of horses with others. She spends her weekends in the warmer months volunteering by helping the United States Forest Service with Back Country Horseman by clearing trails so others can enjoy the back country of Montana.
Kristi is a proud Montana native. She grew up in the Bitterroot Valley, and then moved to Butte in 1993 with her husband. They have 2 amazing daughters who are now grown, and also share the desire to give back to their communities by volunteering in various organizations. In her free time Kristi and her husband enjoy traveling and cruising to tropical destinations.
Alexis Navarette
Helena High School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Alexis
Monica Glueckert
Helena Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Monica
Kevin Flatow
Helena Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Kevin
Jamie Toivonen
Helena Capital High School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Jamie
Jodi Wigen
East Valley Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Jodi
Kaitlyn Murphree
East Valley Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Kaitlyn is originally from Billings, MT, and has lived in Helena since 2018. She has been a math teacher since 2016, starting her career in Billings, and is currently a teacher at East Valley Middle School in East Helena.
She is married and has a wonderful little girl. We are thrilled to have her as part of our Capital City Talent Search Program.
Contact Kaitlyn
Ethan Hoffman
East Helena High School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Ethan
Kelli Kerpa
East Helena High School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Kelli
Emily Hilliard
CR Anderson Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Contact Emily
Aaron Sieminski
CR Anderson Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Aaron Sieminski is a dedicated professional with a strong educational background and a passion for the outdoors. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Science, and a Master’s degree in School Counseling.
As a father of two beautiful girls, Aaron balances his professional life with his role as a loving and supportive parent. His love for the outdoors is a significant part of his life, providing a perfect backdrop for family adventures and personal relaxation.
Aaron’s journey through education and his career in school counseling highlight his commitment to fostering growth and well-being in others. His dedication to both his family and his profession showcases a well-rounded individual who values both personal and professional fulfillment.
Michael Madsen
CR Anderson Middle School
TRIO Capital City Talent Search Coach
Michael is from Helena, MT. He graduated from University of Montana Western with a degree in K-12 Art and K-12 Health and Human Performance. Michael completed his Masters Degree in School Counseling from Montana State University Billings.
He has 2 beautiful daughters who are the joy in his life. In his free time, he enjoys sports and outdoor activities. We are thrilled to have Michael as part of our team as a coach for our Capital City Talent Search students at CR Anderson Middle School in Helena.
Lindsey Wolstein
Butte High School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
Lindsey is both a dual credit teacher and the TRIO Talent Search coach at Butte High School. Raised in Butte she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education at the University of Montana and taught in California for 5 years while earning her master’s in Reading/Language Arts at Cal State San Bernardino.
In 2000 she earned her second master’s degree in school counseling and is looking forward to using this degree in the future.
Lindsey has a daughter and enjoys spending her free time with family and friends camping, floating, and boating on the rivers and lakes of Montana. During the school year she enjoys watching sporting events.
Tony Hoffman
Butte High School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
Tony Hoffman joined Talent Search in 2021 as a coach at Butte High School, where he is also a Butte High Alum. He graduated from UM Western in 2013 with a Bachelors in Secondary Education & Modern History.
Tony has worked at Butte High School as a History Teacher since 2015. In 2019, he completed his Master’s Degree, with Western Governors University, in Learning in Technology. In 2021, Tony Hoffman was awarded the 20 under 40 Award. We are thrilled to have him as part of our TRIO Talent Search Team.
Kristy Wiley
East Middle School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
Kristy Wiley, has been a dedicated educator since 2000. Kristy makes a significant impact at East Middle School, where she specializes in S.T.E.A.M. education. Her commitment to fostering a love for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics has inspired countless students to explore their passions and pursue their dreams. Kristy earned her Master’s in Technology in 2004 from Lesley University.
Kristy has been an integral part of the TRIO Talent Search Program since 2018, where she helps young students navigate their educational journeys and explore various career choices. Her role as a Lead Teacher for the Math and Science Upward Bound Program at Montana Tech during the summer further showcases her dedication to enhancing students’ learning experiences and preparing them for future success.
Outside of her professional life, Kristy is a proud mother of two. Her daughter, Kadance, is a Senior with aspirations of becoming a teacher, while her son, Wiley, named after Kristy’s maiden name, is currently exploring opportunities in the job industry.
Kristy’s passion for education and her unwavering support for students make her a valuable asset to her community, as she continues to inspire the next generation to reach their full potential. Kristy is also part of the Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation Committee. Which provides a variety of opportunities to the students of Butte, MT.
Tressa Johnson
Emerson Elementary School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
Tressa Johnson, joined Talent Search in 2024. Tressa has been a school counselor at Emerson Elementary since 2023. Prior to that she was a CSCT therapist at East Middle School since 2013. Tressa started her journey of helping people after graduating from Butte High School in 2000.
Tressa was born and raised in Butte. She then attended Montana Tech and graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business & Information Technology. Tressa worked as a work-study student in the Montana Tech Financial Aid Office from 2000-2005. She then graduated and stayed in Financial Aid from 2005-2013. She worked closely with the TRIO programs in doing FAFSA nights and College Goal Sunday.
In 2013, Tressa graduated from Montana State University-Northern with a Master’s in Counselor Education. This is where she obtained her school counseling endorsement and also an opportunity to pursue a license as a professional clinical counselor. She has been a licensed LCPC since 2014. She loves working in the schools and working with the TRIO kids.
Tressa has an amazing son, who is very active in all sports, which is where Tressa spends most of her free time.
Contact Tressa
Kaila Sullivan
Kennedy Elementary School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
Kaila Sullivan is part of our TRIO Talent Search team as a Coach/advisor at Kennedy Elementary School. She was born and raised in Butte, MT.
Kaila earned her first degree at the University of Montana in Communicative Sciences and Disorders. After graduating, she moved back to Butte and started working for the Butte School District in 2010. Kaila earned her Master of Education in Counseling from MSU-Northern and currently works as a school counselor at Kennedy Elementary School.
She loves her job and working in the educational field. In her free time Kaila enjoys spending free time in the outdoors, watching sports or with her family. We are thrilled to have Kaila as part of our Talent Search program at MT. Tech.
KD Kennis
Whittier Elementary School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
K.D. Kennis has been dedicated to education since 2000. She is passionate about helping all students reach their fullest potential. KD is currently teaching Library /Technology at Whittier Elementary. She earned her master’s degree for Technology in Education. She has also taught after school/ summer Rockies programs since 2007 in the Butte School district.
We have been blessed to have her as part of the TRIO Talent Search program since 2020. Outside of her professional career she serves on the Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation Committee and recently has challenged herself to become a business owner of Montana BIGWICK Candles.
She has been married to her husband, John, since 2000 and is a proud mother of two daughters, and her pets. KD has an identical twin sister who is her best friend, and she is able to work alongside her in the TRIO Talent Search program. KD brings a nurturing approach to the classroom, always striving to foster a love of learning. She believes in creating a supportive and engaging environment where students can grow both academically and personally.
Kim Lorengo
Anaconda Junior/Senior High School, and Fred Moodry Intermediate School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
Kim Lorengo was born and raised in Great Falls, Montana. She grew up in a musical family with a mother who taught her to play the piano and three younger sisters with whom she spent many hours together singing. After graduating from the University of Idaho with her degree in music education, Kim took her first teaching job in Shelby, Montana teaching 6-12 choir. She spent two years there and then took her dream job teaching 4-12 orchestra and 7-12 choir in Anaconda, Montana where she has been since 2000.
In addition to teaching, Kim has spent time playing the viola with the Butte Symphony, serving as the Hope Lutheran Church Accompanist and Youth Group Leader, and singing/playing rock-n-roll with the John Andrews Band. Professionally, she has served as the MHSA Music Committee Orchestra Rep since 2009 and past president of the Montana String Teachers Association, participates as a Teacher Leader with NAfME’s CAN Grant, and most recently holds the position as president of the Montana Music Educators Association.
Although she and her husband, Bryan, are very busy professionals in each of their fields, their greatest accomplishments are their three beautiful children.
TBD
Powell County High School
TRIO Talent Search Coach
TBD
E F Duvall Junior High School
TRIO Talent Search Coach