Carroll College nursing student Christine Elliott has been named Carroll College’s recipient of the 2025–2026 Montana Student Volunteer Award (MSVA), a statewide honor recognizing college students who demonstrate exceptional dedication to service and community engagement while pursuing their academic goals.
Christine is one of just 18 students selected from campuses across Montana. The award is presented through the Montana Campus Network in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Community Service and celebrates students whose leadership, volunteerism, and civic commitment are making communities stronger and more vibrant.
A member of Carroll’s Class of 2028, Christine was recognized for more than a decade of service with the American Red Cross, including more than 300 volunteer hours and a growing record of leadership.
Christine’s remarkable service journey was also highlighted in the American Red Cross quarterly newsletter Nursing Matters Past and Present in August 2025, which profiled her long-standing commitment to volunteerism and how that experience has inspired her path toward a nursing career. As the feature noted, Elliott was first introduced to the Red Cross as a child while accompanying her mother on volunteer activities. At age 13, she became an official volunteer and has since contributed across multiple lines of service in both the Cascades and Northwest regions.
For the past six years, she has been actively involved with the Home Fire Campaign and Sound the Alarm initiatives, helping canvass neighborhoods, install smoke alarms, and educate families about fire safety. She has also supported fundraising efforts, served as a blood donor ambassador, and participated in Service to the Armed Forces programs.
During her senior year of high school, she served as president of her school’s Red Cross club.
Most recently, Elliott has completed disaster response training to prepare for future deployments during college breaks.
Her commitment to service has also shaped her career aspirations. Elliott first became interested in nursing in fourth grade when she dressed as a World War II Red Cross nurse for a Memorial Day event.
“My experience with the Red Cross has not only inspired my passion for nursing but also equipped me with the skills and values needed to make a meaningful impact in the profession,” Elliott said. “I plan to bring the knowledge and leadership I’ve gained through disaster response training, leading clubs, presentations and watching volunteers hard at work to nursing.”
Elliott says she plans to continue serving with the Red Cross throughout her nursing career.
“Becoming a nurse means I get to make a positive difference in healthcare and in communities,” she said.
The Montana Student Volunteer Award highlights students who exemplify the spirit of service, leadership, and civic responsibility. Congratulations Christine on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for the compassion and commitment you bring to both our campus and community.
