Denise joined YWCA Helena in November 2023 as the Director of Operations. In September 2024, Denise transitioned to serve as the Interim Executive Director.  Embracing the mission of the YWCA’s goal of working toward racial justice and empowering women to reach their potential is a value that was instilled in her by her grandmothers and parents.

Prior to Joining the YWCA Helena, Denise retired from the State of Montana after 32 years of public service. The last 16 years serving as the Administrator of the Montana Historical Society; 8 years with the Department of Public Health and Human Service managing various Medicaid program; 8 years with the Department of Revenue as a Tax Audit Manager.

During her tenure as a public servant, Densie has garnered several awards: Governor’s Award in Excellence in Service; Small Business Administration Vision award and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Choice Grant award.

Denise has a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Montana and a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Mineral Science and Technology: Major Computer Science, Minors: Business Administration, Finance and Management.

Away from work you will find Denise and her spouse enjoying road trips to hear classical music, visiting museums and art galleries and visiting family and friends.