The University of Montana Western will host a special birthday celebration for Dr. Alan Zetler, a beloved educator, mentor, and loyal UMW supporter, during the Montana Western vs. Carroll College basketball games on February 8, 2025. Dr. Zetler, who is turning 95, is one of the university’s most dedicated fans and a cherished presence at UMW events.
Dr. Zetler has a distinguished history of service to UMW, where he served as a professor and the director of the nationally acclaimed Montana Rural Education Center. Over the course of his career, he made significant contributions to education in Montana, holding roles such as Assistant Professor of Education, Associate Professor of Education, Director of Placement and Student Teaching, and Dean of Education. Under his leadership, the Montana Rural Education Center earned the prestigious G. Theodore Mitau Award for innovation in higher education.
Despite his retirement, Dr. Zetler has remained actively involved in the educational community, chairing accreditation teams for Montana Teacher Education institutions. His passion for education, the university, and its students has never wavered.
“Dad shows his love and appreciation for our community and family by volunteering, helping, building and cheering on talent. Our hearts swell when we envision all the people over the many, many decades that dad has positively benefited. He attends all home sports events at Western so having this celebration with so many people he cares about on his 95th birthday will be the best gift ever, thank you!” said Peggy Zetler.
The birthday celebration will take place in the Hall of Fame Room above the Straugh Gymnasium, and the entire community is invited to join in honoring Dr. Zetler’s remarkable legacy! The women’s game starts at 2:00 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 4:00 p.m. A special recognition for Dr. Zetler will be held during halftime of the men’s game.
The event will also include an alumni social featuring birthday cake, appetizers, and a no-host bar. “We are thrilled to celebrate Dr. Zetler’s 95th birthday with his UMW family. This celebration is a small way for us to thank him for everything he has done for the university,” said Roxanne Engellant, Director of the UMW Foundation.
For more information about the celebration, please contact Jolene Robbins, Special Events and Alumni Coordinator at 406-683-7303 or jjolene.robbins@umwestern.edu.
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