MSU BILLINGS FOUNDATION & ALUMNI NEWS—The MSU Billings Foundation & Alumni is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Awards, presented by Northwest Pipe. These distinguished alumni have demonstrated exceptional achievements in their professions, contributed to their communities, and advanced MSU Billings through their ongoing support and dedication. The honorees will be recognized at the annual Outstanding Alumni Awards Ceremony on October 5, celebrating their outstanding accomplishments and contributions.

 

Distinguished Alumni Award: Cheryl Bentley, Class of 1983

Cheryl Bentley’s journey at MSUB began when she transferred from the University of Montana during her sophomore year. Although she had to take a break from her education, Cheryl returned as a nontraditional student, balancing her studies, raising her son, and teaching piano. Her dedication paid off as she completed her degree and began a remarkable 25-year teaching career while nurturing musicians for 43 years. Cheryl’s involvement in hiring new English professors at MSUB and her service on the boards of organizations like the Billings Symphony Orchestra have cemented her legacy within the community. Cheryl remains grateful to the faculty at MSUB for their pivotal role in shaping her personal and professional success.

 

Recognition for Exceptional Achievement: Kalli Allen, Class of 2012

Kalli Allen, a 2012 graduate with a B.A. in Psychology, has risen through the ranks at Scheels, beginning as a part-time cashier and now serving as the Store Leader in Missoula. A dual-sport athlete at MSUB, Kalli was inducted into the MSUB Athletic Hall of Fame in 2018. Known as the greatest women’s golfer in the history of MSUB, she also excelled in basketball. Kalli’s passion for leadership and her community are evident through her professional achievements and her dedication to advancing the university alongside her husband, Jeff Allen, an MSUB alum and former golf coach. They have two daughters, Olivia and Hadley.

 

Rising Star Award: Nik Wong, Class of 2013

Nik Wong, a 2013 graduate, is quickly making his mark in the accounting world. In 2024, Nik was named to Forbes’ prestigious America’s Top 200 CPAs List. After leaving his position at Wipfli, Nik founded NKW CPA LLC in 2023, which has experienced significant growth under his leadership. Beyond his professional success, Nik is a dedicated MSUB supporter, giving back through mentorship, financial contributions, and volunteering at events like the Wine Festival. His involvement with local high school students and DEI initiatives highlights his commitment to making a positive impact in his community.

 

Ronald P. Sexton Award for Professional Commitment: Heather Eggum, Class of 2008 & 2015

For 19 years, Heather Eggum has been a cornerstone of the MSUB Registrar’s Office. Heather advanced through four different roles to become the Associate Registrar. Her dedication to the university is evident through her work on the Alumni Advisory Board, her involvement in coordinating the annual MSUB Commencement ceremony, and her leadership in key campus committees. Heather’s contributions to MSUB’s mission have earned her several honors, including the MSUB Staff Excellence Award in 2010 and the Spirit of MSUB Award in 2015.

 

Alumni Merit Medallion: Jeanne Moller, Class of 1984 & Jon Egeland, Class of 1989

Jeanne Moller played a key role in the success of the MSU Billings Wine & Food Festival, transforming it into a year-round event that has raised $7 million for the university, including $3.1 million in scholarships. Her dedication to the festival and her philanthropic efforts have had a lasting impact on students, ensuring that MSUB continues to provide life-changing opportunities.

Jon Egeland has been instrumental in growing the MSUB Foundation’s assets from $1.75 million to over $40 million. Over his 31-year career with the Foundation, Jon has helped establish scholarships, endowments, and planned gifts that will benefit MSUB students for years to come. His leadership and financial expertise have significantly contributed to the Foundation’s success, making him a vital figure in the advancement of the university.

 

Friend of MSU Billings: Darell and Robin Tunnicliff (Posthumously)

Darell and Robin Tunnicliff, lifelong Billings residents, demonstrated their commitment to education and their community by establishing the Darell and Robin Tunnicliff Scholarship in 2018. The scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in Elementary and Special Education who graduated from high schools in Yellowstone County. Their generosity has made a lasting difference in the lives of students and the quality of education in Billings. Their legacy will continue through the ongoing support of the scholarship they created.

If you are interested in purchasing tickets for the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Awards, please contact Luca Battistotti 406-657-2246 or luca.battistotti@msubfoundation.com. 

 

About the Outstanding Alumni Awards

The MSU Billings Outstanding Alumni Awards honor graduates and friends of the university for their professional achievements, contributions to their communities, and commitment to the advancement of MSU Billings. The awards recognize the significant impact these individuals have made in their respective fields and the positive influence they continue to have on the university.

The 2024 Outstanding Alumni Awards are presented by Northwest Pipe. Additional sponsors include Cherry Creek Mortgage and Scheels (Missoula).