Wallace briefed National Press Foundation fellows in October 2024: Centering Equity When Your Community is Small: Lessons from Montana. 

Heidi Wallace, Executive Director of EmpowerMT, leads efforts to correct systemic inequities and strengthen communities across Montana and beyond. Born and raised in Montana, her deep-rooted love of place and community has been the foundation for her commitment to social justice and collective action. A University of Montana alumna and recipient of the Native American Studies Distinguished Alumni Award, Heidi brings over two decades of experience as a facilitator, consultant, and educator. She has forged strategic partnerships regionally and nationally, fostering innovation and catalyzing action for belonging, equity, and inclusion. As a Professional Fellow with the U.S. Department of State, Heidi has extended her expertise internationally, collaborating with organizations in Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia. Heidi is deeply engaged in community service, serving on the Boards of the PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement and Destination Missoula.