Kalispell, Montana – Governor Greg Gianforte honored a longtime Kalispell educator this week, recognizing Sister Judy Lund of Saint Matthew’s Catholic School with the Spirit of Montana award for more than seven decades of dedication to education, faith, and community service.
The award was presented during a ceremony held at Saint Matthew’s Catholic School in Kalispell, where more than 100 students, school staff, and community members gathered to celebrate Sister Judy’s remarkable career.
Governor Gianforte praised Sister Judy for the lasting impact she has made on generations of students and families throughout the Flathead region.
“Sister Judy’s lifelong commitment to serving others has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless families in the Flathead community,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Service, humility, and compassion are values that define Montana at its best, and Sister Judy has demonstrated each of them through her work at Saint Matthew’s Catholic School.”
More Than Seven Decades of Service
According to state officials, Sister Judy has spent 71 years serving as an educator, including more than three decades teaching at Saint Matthew’s Catholic School.
Throughout her time at the school, she taught science, literature, and scripture while encouraging students to become active members of their community.
School officials said Sister Judy consistently inspired students to help others through outreach and charitable efforts.
One organization she regularly encouraged students to support is Sparrow’s Nest of Northwest Montana, which assists homeless high school students by providing housing and other resources.
During the ceremony, Governor Gianforte presented Sister Judy with a commemorative certificate, an official letter, and a Montana State Flag that had been flown over the state capitol in her honor.
The governor also shared the story behind her nomination while recognizing her decades of service to both education and faith-based community work.
The recognition comes during a major transition in Sister Judy’s life.
Last year, she announced plans to retire at the conclusion of the current school year, bringing an end to an extraordinary educational career that touched countless young lives.
Sister Judy Shares Emotional Message With Students
After receiving the award, Sister Judy spoke directly to the students gathered at the ceremony, offering guidance drawn from decades of experience and faith.
“Listen to what the Lord wants you to do and follow your heart. Make good choices and follow those choices, and then with the Lord, make the choice that’s best for the moment,” Sister Judy said. “We all know I’ve had a lot of moments to make choices!”
She also shared an emotional reflection about the students she has taught throughout her years in Kalispell.
“I know I will carry closest to my heart the boys and girls I’ve met in Kalispell, Montana. I will carry you with me always. Every day when I pray, you will be there, that you make wonderful and good choices,” she said.
The Spirit of Montana award is presented by the governor to recognize Montanans who demonstrate exceptional dedication, accomplishments, or service to their communities.
Officials said community members across the state may nominate deserving individuals for the recognition.
For many at Saint Matthew’s Catholic School, the ceremony served not only as a celebration of Sister Judy’s retirement but also as recognition of a lifetime spent shaping young lives through compassion, education, and faith.
