Nearly a Century of Empowerment: Bozeman Professional Women's Journey from 1930 to Today

In an era when women were still fighting for the right to open bank accounts in their own names, a group of 25 visionary women gathered at the Baxter Hotel in downtown Bozeman. The date was September 18, 1930, and their mission was revolutionary yet straightforward: to elevate standards for women, promote business and professional activities, and foster cooperation among members. Thus, Bozeman Professional Women (BPW) was born.

Fast forward to today, and BPW stands as one of Bozeman's most enduring and influential organizations, with a membership exceeding 100 professional women from diverse career backgrounds. As Women's History Month concludes, it's worth reflecting on how this organization has not only survived but thrived through nearly a century of social change.

When Jessie Aiken was elected as BPW's first president, she couldn't have imagined the legacy she was helping to establish. Over the decades, the organization's membership roster has included luminaries like U.S. Congresswoman Jeannette Rankin—the first woman elected to Congress—and numerous female state legislators who have shaped Montana's political landscape.

What makes BPW's history particularly remarkable is how the organization has consistently adapted to meet the needs of both its members and the broader community. During The Great Depression, when economic hardship was widespread, BPW members committed two hours weekly to assisting unemployed women—a reflection of their practical approach to solidarity.

"The organization's ability to evolve while staying true to its founding principles has been key to its longevity," says Courtney King, Communications Co-chair for BPW. "Whether during economic downturns or periods of social transformation, BPW has remained relevant by focusing on what women in our community actually need."

BPW's commitment to education has been unwavering since 1937, when the organization awarded its first scholarship to a Montana State University student. This tradition continues today, symbolizing the organization's belief that education is a cornerstone of women's professional advancement. The organization's focus on recognizing achievement is equally important. Each year, BPW celebrates National Business and Professional Women's Week and names a Woman of the Year, shining a spotlight on exceptional contributions that might otherwise go unacknowledged.

Today's BPW maintains a vibrant schedule of activities designed to foster both professional development and community building. The group meets twice monthly—once for a casual social gathering hosted at a member's business and once for a luncheon featuring presentations on relevant topics by members.

Two major annual events anchor the organization's calendar. The Annual Women's Business Expo, scheduled for April 30, 2025, at the Gallatin Valley Fairgrounds, offers a showcase for members' diverse enterprises. Visitors to this public event can explore offerings ranging from permanent jewelry and international travel to insurance, real estate, and local food and beverage products. In the fall, the Annual Celebrations Dinner serves multiple purposes: awarding grants to entrepreneurs and employees seeking to expand their skills, and honoring outstanding women and businesses through recognitions like Employer of the Year, Young Careerist, and Woman of Achievement.

What might be most impressive about BPW is how it has transformed from a support system in an era of limited opportunity to a dynamic network in today's more equitable (though still imperfect) professional landscape. "Our members represent everything from solo entrepreneurs to corporate executives, from creative professionals to technical experts," King notes. "That diversity creates a powerful resource network where women at any career stage can find mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and genuine friendship."

As nominations prepare to open for this year's awards, BPW encourages the community to consider nominating deserving women for recognition. It's a tradition that connects directly to the organization's founding purpose—acknowledging and elevating women's contributions to the professional world.

For those interested in joining this historic organization with a modern outlook, BPW welcomes new members through their website at www.bozemanbpw.org.

After nearly a century, Bozeman Professional Women continues to demonstrate that when women support each other, both individuals and communities thrive—a lesson as relevant in 2025 as it was in 1930.