MISSOULA, Mont. — The University of Montana is seeking public comment on a proposal to name a new forestry and conservation building in honor of two Stevensville residents whose financial contributions will help expand natural resource education and research.
The proposed Robert T. and Janet M. Wolfenden Forestry and Conservation Building would serve the university’s W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, providing modern classrooms, research laboratories and collaborative spaces for students, faculty and community partners.
The university is accepting written comments on the proposed naming through Wednesday, Nov. 11, before the Montana Board of Regents considers the proposal at its Nov. 19-20 meeting.
“Bob and Janet Wolfenden believed in the importance of stewarding our natural resources and preparing the next generation to care for them,” UM President Jeremiah Shinn said.
“Their generosity will create opportunities for our students and help us address the most important conservation challenges facing our state and region,” Shinn added. “We are proud to name this building in their honor as a way to recognize their vision and commitment.”
Bob and Janet Wolfenden moved to Stevensville in 2016 and developed connections with the university, initially through their support of Grizzly Athletics. Their interest in Montana’s natural landscapes and conservation programs eventually led to a major financial commitment supporting forestry education and scientific research.
Janet Wolfenden worked as a soil scientist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. She died in 2025 following a brief battle with cancer.
The new facility will encompass approximately 73,000 square feet and provide instructional classrooms, laboratories, faculty offices, student gathering areas and dedicated spaces for interdisciplinary research. It will also accommodate other university science programs and community partners.
The W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation offers academic programs focused on forestry, wildlife biology, environmental science, ecological restoration and natural resource management. Its activities address forest health, wildfire management, water resources, wildlife conservation and sustainable land management.
Naming decisions involving university facilities are governed by Montana Board of Regents policies. Under Policy 1004.1, members of the public may submit written comments on the Wolfenden proposal before the board acts.
Comments may be mailed to Brantly Hall 101, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, or submitted by email to dave.kuntz@umontana.edu. The deadline is Nov. 11, and the Board of Regents will consider the request at its Nov. 19-20 meeting.