Our Board of Directors has been on a nationwide search for the next strategic leader to take Forward Montana into 2020 and beyond.

And we have some BIG news to share with you.

On behalf of the Forward Montana and Forward Montana Foundation Boards, we’re excited to introduce you to our incoming Executive Director, Kiersten Iwai.

Welcome Kiersten!

Although Kiersten brings new experiences and expertise in digital communications, climate justice, and diversity, equity, and inclusion frameworks that will drive us forward, she is anything but new to Forward Montana! A long-time supporter, Kiersten is a 25 under 25 Awardee, a trainer at the MT Youth Organizing Summit, and a Forward MT Foundation Board Member.

Kiersten Iwai is an advocate, trainer, campaigner, and community organizer. Most recently, she was a Digital and ClimateCampaigner with Stand.earth using international corporate campaigns to fight the climate crisis. She earned her Masters of Public Administration from Montana State University. She also served survivors of domestic violence as a weekend advocate for Haven and co-founded Earthtone Outside MT, an organization dedicated to elevating the visibility of Montana’s diverse outdoor enthusiasts. If not fighting structures of oppression you can find Kiersten exploring in the mountains or dancing in the streets.

We’re incredibly excited to support Kiersten in her new role as she draws on these skills and experiences to launch a new chapter for Forward Montana.

What’s next?

Kiersten will be kicking off her tenure as Executive Director on November 2nd. As Rachel transitions out of the ED role, she will be staying on as an advisor into December to ensure Forward Montana is ready to rock’n’roll in 2020. 

With enthusiasm,

Allie Hay, Chair of Forward Montana’s Board of Directors.

Jeremy Osborn, Chair of Forward Montana Foundation’s Board of Directors.