The Commencement Ceremony for Class 37, Montana Youth Challenge Academy, was held on Saturday, December 16, 2017 on the campus of the University of Montana-Western in Dillon, Montana. Seventy four Cadets graduated during the formal ceremony. Speakers included Lieutenant Governor Mike Cooney and University of Montana President, Dr. Sheila Stearns. Other distinguished guests included State Senator Jeff Welborn, SD 36, Major General Matthew Quinn, The Adjutant General, Montana National Guard, Brigadier General Bryan Fox, Commander, Montana Air National Guard, Brigadier General (Ret) Hal Stearns, Montana Army National Guard, Dr. Beth Weatherby, Chancellor, University of Montana Western, Susan Briggs, Vice Chancellor, University of Montana Western and Erica Swanson, State Coordinator, Jobs for Montana Graduates.

The Montana Youth Challenge Academy (MYCA) is a two-phase, academic-based program located in Dillon, Montana on the campus of the University of Montana-Western. The Academy's focus is to assist youth, ages 16-18, by helping them to develop the academic and life skills necessary to be successful. During the twenty-two week residential phase, Academy participants focus on eight Core Components which include Physical Fitness, Academic Excellence, Leadership-Followership, Responsible Citizenship, Service to Community, Life-Coping Skills, Job Skills and Health & Hygiene. Following graduation form the Residential Phase, Students enter a 12-month Post Residential Phase in which they maintain on-going contact with a volunteer Mentor in their community who provides additional guidance & support.

MYCA conducts two sessions each year and the next session starts on January 16, 2018. For more information, please contact MYCA at 1-877-367-6927 or visit their website at http://www.youthchallenge.mt.gov