See. Serve. Lead: Together Again
For the first time, Baucus Institute alumni from every program and every year are coming together in Bozeman for a day of reconnection, reflection, and renewal. Whether you were a Baucus Leader, Climate Scholar, or participated in one of our international programs, this conference is for you.
Join fellow alumni, current students, Ambassador Baucus, and the Baucus Institute team for panels, professional development, and community, followed by an outdoor BBQ at the home of Ambassador Max Baucus and Mel Hanes.
At a Glance
WHEN
Saturday, September 12, 2026
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
BBQ at 4:00 PM
All alumni and conference attendees are invited to the BBQ.
WHERE
MSU SUB Ballrooms
751 Grant Street
Montana State University
Bozeman, MT 59717
EVENING BBQ
Home of Ambassador
Max Baucus & Mel Hanes
All alumni and conference attendees are invited to the BBQ.
Conference Schedule
Schedule is tentative. Details will be updated as they are confirmed.
9:00 AM
Registration & Morning Coffee
Check in, pick up your name tag, and reconnect with fellow Baucus Institute alumni.
9:30 AM
Welcome and Morning Kick-Off
Ambassador Max Baucus and Mel Hanes, founders of the Max Baucus Institute, welcome attendees.
9:40 AM
The AI Advantage for Career Growth with Alvin Graylin
Alvin Wang Graylin is a Digital Fellow at Stanford's Institute for Human-Centered AI, Professor of AI and Technology at the University of Washington, and author of the bestselling book "Our Next Reality."
10:25 AM
The Institute's Legacy: Behind the Scenes of High-Impact Careers
Inspirational behind-the-scenes stories from careers of public service, featuring the Baucus Institute's co-founders Ambassador Max Baucus and Mel Hanes
11:00 AM
Beyond the Baucus Institute: Alumni Career Paths
Max Baucus Institute alumni share how their Baucus Institute experiences harnessed professional skills and interest to pursue careers in public service. Moderated by Ambassador Max Baucus and Mel Hanes.
Panelists: Jonathan Karlen, Montana State Representative (District 98); LaRenzo Roanbear, Legal Advisor to the Northern Cheyenne Tribe; Andria Shafer, Policy Analyst, MT Budget and Policy Center; Renee Kelley, Director of Operations, Montana Conservation Voters
11:30 AM
Lunch and Baucus Institute Community Building
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12:20 PM
The Montana Impact: Driving Professional and Civic Change
Current public servants share career paths, lessons learned, and opportunities for civic engagement across Montana. Moderator: Rep. Jonathan Karlen, MT State Legislator and Baucus Leader Alumni.
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Panelists: Audrey Cromwell, Gallatin County Attorney; Chris Heggem, Chief of Staff, Governor's Office, State of Montana; Forrest Mandeville, MT State Legislator; Joey Morrison, Mayor, City of Bozeman; Cora Neumann, MT State Senator
1:05 PM
Afternoon Break
1:20 PM
Lightning Round: 2026 Baucus Leaders & Climate Scholars Translate Real-World Experiences this summer into Career Goals
Baucus Alumni share their summer experiences and highlight work they did and professional skills refined in summer 2026.
1:55 PM
Career Breakout Sessions (concurrent)
Focus and leverage time together for diverse conversations across many topics from industry experts with Baucus Institute Alumni, incorporating both professional development and mentorship in this structured time. Subjects include international business careers, careers in climate and conservation, and public service careers, among others.
2:45 PM
Perspectives with former MT Governor Marc Racicot
Fireside chat with Ambassador Max Baucus
3:15 PM
Wrap-up, Q&A, and Open Discussion
Ambassador Max Baucus and Mel Hanes close and thank alumni and speakers, and encourage continued alumni engagement with the Baucus Institute.
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Break and travel time
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4:30 PM
BBQ at Ambassador Max Baucus & Mel Hanes' house
Please join us for a BBQ under the Big Sky with our Max Baucus Institute alumni and Friends of the Max Baucus Institute. All conference participants are welcome to attend. The BBQ will end at 6:30 PM.
Travel & Logistics
Getting to Bozeman
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is served by most major airlines with direct flights from many U.S. cities. The airport is approximately 20 minutes from the MSU campus.
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Accommodations
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Bozeman Hot Springs Campground
50 Welcome Drive, Bozeman, MT 59718
We've reserved cabins and campsites at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground for visiting alumni:
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Cabins (14 available): Each cabin sleeps three with individual beds. Linens are provided and there is a shared bathroom facility nearby. This is a shared housing accommodation.
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Tent Sites (6 available): Reserved campsites for those who prefer to pitch a tent. Please bring your own camping gear.
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These accommodations are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please let us know by July 28 if you need accommodation. The Baucus Institute will manage cabin reservations and will do our best to honor roommate preferences if you let us know in advance.
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Parking & Campus Maps
Parking is free on Saturdays at Montana State University. The closest parking to the SUB is the Parking Garage, with additional lots available nearby.
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Questions?
Contact Amber Vestal at amber@baucusinstitute.org.
Bozeman Hot Springs Campground cabins
Campground tent sites
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MSU Campus Map
MSU Parking Map
FAQs
Who is invited?
All Baucus Institute alumni are invited: Baucus Leaders, Climate Scholars, China Deep Dive and cultural exchange participants, DC program alumni, and everyone who has been part of the Baucus Institute community.
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Is there a cost to attend?
There is no cost to attend.
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Can I bring a guest?
Please contact us if you would like to bring a guest to the conference. Space is prioritized for Baucus alumni and Friends of the Baucus Institute. Additional guests will be approved based on space availability.
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What should I wear?
Business casual attire.