In a surprise school assembly on Thursday, April 28, Chinook High School senior Halle Mitchell was honored for her entrepreneurial spirit with the Spirit of Montana Award. While on his second 56 County Tour since taking office, Governor Greg Gianforte stopped by the school to present the award, as well as a flag that flew in Mitchell's honor at the Capitol in Helena.

About Mitchell's award, Gianforte said, "I like to reward young people doing good things, and I wanted to show support for her small business, Boss Mare Beading. As I often say, government doesn't create jobs, entrepreneurs and business folks do. Montana needs more entrepreneurs like Halle."

Reading from a letter that he wrote to Mitchell, the governor went on to say: "Every job worth doing has a noble purpose in serving others. Carpenters don't just pound nails; they build homes for people. Farmers don't just plant and harvest; they feed people all over the world. You're not just creating beadwork; you're making goods that will brighten the lives of others. No matter what you choose to do in the future, focus daily on how your work serves others rather than [on] the paycheck, and contentment and satisfaction will be much easier to obtain."

According to Chinook Junior High/High School Principal, Matt Molyneaux, the presentation was a total surprise to Mitchell, whose family had been invited without her knowledge. "The governor rolled in at 11:45 a.m., and we called Halle from the crowd, as she had no idea. We brought the 7-12 student body in for the presentation and had told her family beforehand so they were there, too. This honor is not only great for Halle but shows our other students what a person can do with a little extra drive, ambition, and dedication."

Molyneaux also gave a shout out to the FFA program by adding, "I believe things such as SAE projects help put together the basic processes one needs to be organized and run a small business."

In response to the award, Mitchell exclaimed: "What a crazy month it has been! At the beginning of this month while I was in Bozeman for state convention, I received my State Degree for FFA, as well as the Montana FFA Proficiency Award in Agriculture Sales Entrepreneurship. Then, Donna Miller did an article about my business that was printed in the newspaper! Today I was awarded the Spirit of Montana Award by Governor Greg Gianforte and his wife, in person!

"I'm still in shock of how much my 'little hobby' has taken off! I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone that has ordered from me and to my friends who have helped behind the scenes. Finally, a huge thank you to my family for supporting me every step of the way and showing up for me today! I'm very excited for my next chapter in starting my journey towards a business degree this fall! Once again thank you, everyone, for your support!"

Governor Gianforte's Spirit of Montana Award is a recognition of Montanans for their accomplishments, dedication, or service to their communities. The award acknowledges someone whose actions are worthy of recognition-"whether through performing a noteworthy act of kindness, by helping a neighbor in need, or in some other way inspiring others in the great spirit of Montana."

Individuals wishing to nominate someone for the award can do so by contacting the Governor's Office at (406) 444-3111 or by submitting the nomination online at governor.mt.gov/Spirit-of-Montana-Award.