(HAVRE/HELENA) — The Leadership Montana Board of Governors is pleased to announce the
selection of Debbie Vandeberg-Henry, as the recipient of the 2026 Tom Scott Award for
Excellence in Leadership.
Named in honor of Leadership Montana’s founder, the Tom Scott Award is the organization’s
highest distinction, presented annually to an individual who has made significant, sustained,
and meaningful contributions to the mission and success of Leadership Montana. Each year, the
Board of Governors selects a recipient who exemplifies outstanding leadership, service, and
dedication to the organization.
As a Founder, and alumna of the first Flagship Class of 2005, Vandeberg-Henry has
demonstrated a deep and ongoing commitment to Leadership Montana. She served on the
Organizing Committee to create the Leadership Montana Program, under the leadership of Tom
Scott. She then served on the Board of Governors from 2017 to 2025, including as Chair during
the 2022-2023 term. As Chair, she played a key role in guiding the organization through a critical
time, ensuring stability through their executive search and transition.
“Few people embody the spirit and purpose of Leadership Montana as fully as Debbie does,”
said Camila Skinner, member of the Board of Governors. “As one of the organization’s founding
members, she helped lay the groundwork for what Leadership Montana would become. Her
early vision, steady leadership, and deep commitment shaped the mission and set the
organization on a strong and meaningful path. Beyond her foundational role, Debbie has
demonstrated deep dedication as a financial supporter, connector, volunteer, and staunch
advocate. Her influence extends well beyond any single contribution; she has strengthened
relationships, championed the organization’s work, and inspired others to engage deeply with
Leadership Montana. Debbie’s impact is enduring, and her legacy reflects the very spirit of the
Tom Scott Award.”
Debbie was born and raised in Havre, a proud graduate of Havre High School and
MSU-Northern. She returned to Havre after a few years working in retail in NYC and opened her
own business, with the goal of making a difference. Being back home she has done her best to
contribute and give back to the community and state. While Debbie may be retired, she is active
in several community organizations: Havre Hill County Preservation Commission, the Art and
Beautification Committee and statewide with Leadership Montana. When she is not
volunteering, she and her husband Dave both enjoy hiking, golf, travel and driving the
backroads of Montana.
When notified of the award, Debbie shared, “Leadership Montana allowed me to grow in so
many ways, professionally and personally. The magic of Leadership Montana still inspires me
everyday. I am incredibly honored to be selected to receive the Tom Scott Award for Excellence
in Leadership. When I review the previous winners- all friends and some classmates, – I am
humbled to be in their company.”
Vandeberg-Henry will receive the award at the Class of 2026 Graduation and Alumni Awards
luncheon at The Montana Heritage Center in Helena on May 15, 2026.
About Leadership Montana
Founded in 2003, Leadership Montana is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to
building a better Montana through knowledge, collaboration, and civility. The organization
offers a comprehensive leadership development program designed to enhance professional
skills while encouraging personal growth and self-reflection.
Participants engage deeply with the complex issues facing Montana, gaining a broadened
perspective and a stronger sense of civic responsibility. Throughout the program, they also
cultivate meaningful relationships with fellow participants and join a statewide network of over
1,000 alumni. This diverse and dynamic alumni community represents leaders from all sectors
and regions of Montana, united by a shared commitment to advancing the state’s future
through collaborative leadership.
###
