Columbia Falls student-athlete recognized for leadership

Columbia Falls High School senior Julia Byrd was recognized as a Winslow Nichols Leadership Award winner for her exceptional work ethic, strong character, leadership skills and collaborative spirit. 

Columbia Falls teacher and coach Kate Daniels nominated Byrd for the award. She described the senior as someone who leaves a lasting impression on others, noting her “welcoming smile, calm demeanor, and infectious positive attitude.” 

As part of the award, Byrd received $250 to donate to a school organization or program. She plans to donate the money to the high school's Special Olympics team. 

Daniels praised Byrd’s dedication to the Special Olympics and Dream Adaptive programs, where she works with student-athletes in basketball, bowling, track, snowshoeing and skiing. As a competitive freestyle skier, Byrd took extra training to serve as a volunteer ski instructor, to help athletes with disabilities. 

“I find it super cool to pass on skills and teach kids new things maybe they wouldn’t have tried beforehand,” Byrd said. “Give them the confidence to try something new.”  

The Youth Activation Committee, part of Special Olympics, brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to play Unified Sports and organize activities that promote inclusion. Byrd said that during the basketball season, the Unified Sports team wraps up with a tournament where other schools are invited to participate. 

“It’s a day to compete and showcase the kids’ hard work,” Byrd said. 

In her nomination, Daniels highlighted Byrd’s ability to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of the athletes, adapt to their specific needs and foster an inclusive environment.  

“She always aims to keep our team practices fun and positive for our athletes,” Daniels wrote in her nomination of Byrd. 

Byrd said she hopes more students will think about joining or coaching. 

“[Byrd] is mindful of the legacy our team has achieved in the past and works hard to keep this momentum going by helping our team recruit student volunteers for the future,” Daniels said. “She exhibits leadership by guiding these students through the necessary training and demonstrates how to be a great volunteer, role model and friend.” 

Last year, Byrd, along with her brother and mother, participated in the Sparrow’s Nest annual fundraiser, When the Night Comes. During the event, participants sleep outside to raise awareness and funds to curb youth homelessness in the Flathead Valley. Byrd described it as an eye-opening experience that provided another opportunity to support her peers.   

Byrd’s commitment to excellence extends to her academics, earning top grades and becoming a member of the Columbia Falls High School chapter of the National Honor Society. 

As a leader, Byrd said she aspires to be someone who tackles initiatives that make a difference. She hopes that her efforts may inspire others to lead or participate in something that will impact the community.  

After graduation, Byrd plans to pursue a career as nurse specializing in obstetrics. 

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.