December 20, 2024
Emmett Jeschke, a senior at the University of Montana Western, has been selected to serve as the Montana Associated Students (MAS) Student Lobbyist during the upcoming legislative session. Representing students across the Montana University System, Jeschke will advocate for higher education priorities while building relationships with state lawmakers.
Originally from Kalispell, Montana, Jeschke transferred to UMW from Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) after hearing about the university’s affordability and block schedule. Majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Constitutional Studies, he has explored subjects such as Political Science, American Government, and Economics. His academic achievements include independent research comparing the German and American constitutions and coursework in comparative legal studies.
Jeschke credits Lexi Loucks, ASUMW President, and Elizabeth Kamminga and Logan Colberg, ASUM President and Vice President, for encouraging him to apply for the position. “Making the decision to apply was a great leap outside of my comfort zone,” Jeschke said. “I’m excited to meet with the state legislature and develop connections. Since I was young, I’ve always had the desire to make positive change in the world, and this is a great opportunity. I’m really looking forward to this learning experience.”
In his role, Jeschke will focus on sharing legislation relevant to higher education with MAS. He will work closely with state representatives in both the House and Senate, coordinate with the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education (OCHE), and connect with student governments across the state. This immersive experience will also fulfill an internship requirement for Jeschke as part of his UMW studies.
Jeschke’s responsibilities will take him to Helena, where he will reside with two other student lobbyists—one from the University of Montana and one from Montana State University—starting on December 30.
At Montana Western, Jeschke has been an active leader. He is a member of UMW’s TRIO program, serves as an ASUMW Student Senator, regularly attends Chancellor’s Cabinet, Academic Leadership, and Faculty Senate meetings to support UMW students, and sits on the UMW International and Budget Committees.
In addition to his leadership roles, Jeschke works in the Financial Aid Office through the Work-Study program, where he assists students with FAFSA and other financial aid questions.
“We couldn’t be prouder of Emmett’s accomplishment,” said Rebecca Manna, Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Montana Western. “He is the kind of student who genuinely cares about the well-being of others. He shows up, rolls up his sleeves, gets involved, and does the work. Emmett’s selection as the MAS Student Lobbyist demonstrates his commitment to empowering students to learn, lead, and serve. It also shows us what’s possible when we believe in ourselves, each other, and the power of education.”
After graduating this spring, Jeschke plans to apply for a three-year accelerated graduate program at the University of Montana, where he hopes to earn both an MBA and a Juris Doctorate (JD). To prepare, he will be taking the LSAT and graduate school entrance exams.
The University of Montana Western congratulates Jeschke on his appointment and is grateful for his leadership on campus. His work as the MAS student lobbyist will serve not only as a capstone to his time at Montana Western but as a launchpad for his aspirations to drive positive change in the world.
For more information about Experience One and the University of Montana Western, or to schedule a tour, visit www.umwestern.edu or call 877-683-7331.
