Current Pure Gold Recipients

I am proud to nominate Jacqueline Centofanti for MSU's Pure Gold recognition. As the Membership and Database coordinator at Montana PBS, Jacqueline exemplifies dedication, creativity, and community impact. She excels in her role with precision and care, ensuring data systems support the station's mission effectively. Jacqueline serves on MSU's Staff Senate and is an active FOCUS union member. She continues to contribute as an alumna by editing the newsletter for Alpha Gamma Delta sorority, which she joined as an MSU student.

Jacqueline brings excellent customer service skills and professionalism to every project, providing detailed notes, organized ideas, and thoughtful insights that improve workflows and outcomes. Her behind-the-scenes work supports the production and development of high-quality public media content that educates and inspires Montanans. Her contributions go far beyond her job description. Jacqueline is a generous team player, stepping up at events, mentoring interns and even boosting morale with homemade treats. Her quiet competence, kindness and collaborative spirit embody the best of MSU's values. Jacqueline Centofanti is Pure Gold. Her lasting impact is felt not only at Montana PBS but throughout the MSU community and beyond.

Award recieved on January 28th, 2026. Nominated by Jeannie Gracey.

Kody Gilleo, a valued member of the Information Technology department at the College of Great Falls, plays a critical role in supporting students, faculty and staff by resolving technical issues and ensuring smooth operations across campus systems. This year, a new partnership was established between the College of Great Falls and Great Falls Public Schools to offer a dual credit course at Great Falls High School. As part of this, Kody stepped outside his usual campus environment to assist a class of 28 high school students in setting up and navigating Canvas, the college's learning management system.

Although he arrived with a plan, the dynamic nature of the high school classroom quickly required flexibility and patience. Kody adapted seamlessly, working one-on-one with students and often answering the same question multiple times, all with kindness, good humor and professionalism. His willingness to go above and beyond - leaving campus, providing on-site support and remaining available via phone and text throughout the following week - ensured that every student was successfully onboarded and able to complete their assignments. Kody's efforts demonstrated exceptional leadership, collaboration and commitment to student success. Through his work, Kody has strengthened the relationship between Great Falls High School and the College of Great Falls, setting a positive tone for future partnerships. Sincere thanks for his dedication and for going the extra mile.

Award recieved on January 21st, 2025. Nominated by Teresa Mouser.

Mindy Brown has been a light in my professional life at MSU since 2013 when she helped me write my very first contracts and balance my first budgets. This past year, she shone in new and incredible ways while supporting the Business Operations Manager team in the College of Education, Health and Human Development. She has worked hard to ensure that these managers have appropriate training and support, which is especially important given the crucial importance of their positions. Mindy's willingness to support others and walk them through processes (sometimes multiple times with multiple whiteboard marker colors), procedures, and various forms of training is remarkable.

Not only is she a delight to work with, she understands darn near everything but never insists that others do things exactly the way she does them. Instead, she helps foster understanding and encourages finding what works for each unit and its people. Instead of saying "if you get hit by a bus," her signature phrases "follow the money" and "in case you win the lottery" help everyone feel comfortable asking questions and solving problems as a group. She is a team player, a fast responder, a critical thinker, and a realistic and humble leader. It is a joy to work with Mindy and know she has your back. She's just a good human, and MSU is lucky to have her Pure Gold outlook and support.

Award recieved on January 14th, 2026. Nominated by Kayte Kaminski.