Baucus Leaders MT
The Baucus Leaders MT program is rooted in Max Baucus’ home state of Montana, which he represented for 36 years as a U.S. Senator. Every summer we place exceptional undergraduate and graduate students in internships at Montana-based governmental and nonprofit offices. These opportunities are great for students who have obligations that keep them close to home.
About
Since 2021, our Baucus Leaders MT have worked with Montana-based nonprofits and governmental organizations.
For Summer 2027 we are still finalizing positions, but previous host offices have included:
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UM's American Indian Governance & Policy Institute (Missoula)
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Montana Food Bank (Missoula)
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Montana Stockgrowers Association (Helena)
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Montana Budget & Policy Center (Helena/remote)
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Montana Food Bank Network (Missoula)
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Native American Development Council (Billings)
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MT HRDC - Rural Community Outreach & Engagement (Bozeman/Park County)
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Montana Nonprofit Association
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Montana Stockgrowers Association (Helena)
Project work begins on or around June 1 and ends on or around August 2. Baucus Leaders MT usually work part-time and are given a $3,000 stipend to defray cost of living expenses during their internship.
Qualifications & Commitments
Baucus Leaders MT will be selected based on commitment to public service, academic performance, and interest in Montana’s public sector. The program is open to all students currently enrolled (online or in-person) in good academic standing at Montana-based colleges and universities. Students must continue to be enrolled in the Spring semester before their internship. Students from BIPOC, LGBTQ+2S, and under-resourced communities are highly encouraged to apply.
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Baucus Leaders MT commit to participating in pre-program orientation meetings, as well as several Institute lunches and evening lectures while in DC. At the end of the program, students are asked to write a reflection of their experience and attend the alumni conference in Bozeman on a Saturday in September.
How to Apply
The Deadline to apply for Summer 2026 has been extended to February 27, 2026 on a rolling basis. A complete application includes the following:
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A current resume
Make sure it is up-to-date and includes all relevant experience.
A 500-word statement
Tell us why you want to be a Baucus Leader MT, your commitment to/interest in public service, and how you believe you will contribute to the program and to the office where you will intern.
Ranked order preference of offices for placement
Tell us where you would like to work.
A letter of recommendation
From a person who can speak to your interest in and commitment to public service.