Jesse Mahugh honored with alumni award from FVCC

Flathead Valley Community College has honored Jesse Mahugh with its 2016 Distinguished Alumni Award for his work with nonprofit organizations across the state.  

FVCC President Jane Karas and Alumni & Friends Council Co-chairwoman Suzy Williams presented Mahugh with the award Wednesday at the seventh annual FVCC Alumni & Friends Luncheon at the college.

“Jesse has made a lasting impact on our community. Dedication and drive, compassion and kindness, humility and openness are his hallmark characteristics,” Karas said.

More than 100 people attended the lunch to celebrate the award, which is given to an FVCC graduate whose career and achievements have focused on service.

Mahugh graduated from FVCC in 2004.

He was elected as the student government president in 2002-03.

In his second year at FVCC, Mahugh, then 20 years old, discovered he had a brain tumor, which triggered a passion to encourage others facing similar challenges to not give up.

After graduating from FVCC, Mahugh attended the University of Montana and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration.

Within the last 10 years, Mahugh worked as a staff member or volunteer for organizations throughout Montana, including the Poverello Center, Camp Mak-A-Dream, DREAM Adaptive Recreation, Habitat for Humanity and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

He is also a member of Flathead Area Young Professionals and the FVCC Alumni & Friends Council.

Most recently, Mahugh was hired as the executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flathead County in 2014.

“Jesse strives every day to make a positive impact on our youth and is always looking for new and creative ways to raise the bar,” said Mandy Pokorny, Big Brothers Big Sisters board member.