Terry and Patt Payne donate $500,000 to benefit MSU Billings student scholarships
MSU BILLINGS FOUNDATION & ALUMNI NEWS—The MSU Billings Foundation recently received a $500,000 gift from Terry and Patt Payne directed towards advancing the educational opportunities and addressing financial challenges faced by students pursuing their college education. The Paynes’ contribution will benefit the Finish Line Scholarship, which honors a student’s determination to earn a degree while removing financial barriers on their path to graduation.
“This tremendous gift will empower numerous students who face significant financial challenges yet have a will to persist in their journey towards earning a college degree,” said MSU Billing Foundation and Alumni President Krista Montague. “We are grateful for the extraordinary generosity of the Terry and Patt Payne, whose commitment and support are instrumental in advancing our mission and making a meaningful impact on the lives of the MSUB students we serve.”
Payne, a longstanding businessperson in the state, founded Terry Payne & Company in 1972. In 2001, he established Payne Financial Group, later evolving into PayneWest Insurance, which became the 33rd largest insurance broker in the United States before being acquired by Marsh & McLennan Agency, LLC.
“We are pleased and blessed to be able to contribute to the needs of students at MSU Billings. Our hope is that this financial support will enable those who aspire to pursue advanced education but face financial challenges to fulfill their academic dreams,” said Payne.
The Paynes aim to encourage others to join them in supporting the educational mission of the university. “We believe in the transformative power of education, and MSU Billings plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Montana’s workforce,” added Payne.
The donation comes at a strategic time for MSU Billings, providing financial assistance to students who may face barriers to accessing advanced education. The university is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue their academic goals.
About MSU Billings and the MSU Billings Foundation
MSU Billings is known to be among the most competitively priced institutions in Montana and the nation. Founded in 1968, the Montana State University Billings Foundation makes a quality education even more affordable for students beginning and continuing on their academic journey. The foundation is an independent, non-profit organization under Internal Revenue Service code 501(c)(3). It advances the goals of MSU Billings through the solicitation, investment, and stewardship of financial support and promotes philanthropy, partnerships, and educational opportunities.
For more information on the Foundation, visit msubfoundation.com or call 406-657-2244.