UM Seeks Input on Naming of Forestry and Conservation Building
The University of Montana invites public comment on a proposal to name a new facility for its W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. (UM photo by Tommy Martino)
MISSOULA – The University of Montana is seeking public comment on a proposal to name a new facility to be constructed for the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation.
The proposed name is the Robert T. and Janet M. Wolfenden Forestry and Conservation Building.
“Bob and Janet Wolfenden believed in the importance of stewarding our natural resources and preparing the next generation to care for them,” said UM President Jeremiah Shinn. “Their generosity will create opportunities for our students and help us address the most important conservation challenges facing our state and region. We are proud to name this building in their honor as a way to recognize their vision and commitment.”
Bob and Janet Wolfenden made Stevensville their home in 2016 and quickly developed a connection to the University through Grizzly Athletics. Their appreciation for Montana's landscapes and ecosystems, combined with Janet's career as a soil scientist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, inspired a transformational investment in UM’s forestry and conservation programs. Janet passed away in 2025 following a brief battle with cancer.
The proposed naming recognizes the Wolfendens’ remarkable generosity and honors their vision for expanding opportunity, advancing research and fostering responsible stewardship of natural resources. Their legacy will help prepare future leaders, support discovery and serve Montana for generations to come.
Upon completion, the 73,000-square-foot facility will provide innovative classroom, laboratory, office, gathering and study spaces for faculty, staff and students in the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, as well as other University science programs and community partners. The building will serve as a hub for teaching, research, collaboration and innovation in the natural resource and conservation sciences.
In accordance with Montana Board of Regents Policy 1004.1, written comments regarding the proposed naming may be submitted by U.S. mail to Brantly Hall 101, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812. Comments also may be submitted via email to dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.
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Contact: Dave Kuntz, UM vice president for marketing and communications, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.