When Great Falls College Montana State University applied for The Million Dollar Community College Challenge, college officials expressed a strong desire to strengthen brand identity and engage the community.
Nestled in Great Falls, Montana, the college is surrounded by natural beauty – and by another college that once shared a similar name. Having undergone several name changes over the years, Great Falls College was seeking to help its community recognize its brand and create excitement around what the college offers.
Enter the home of the River Otters.
Through the grant, Great Falls College worked to develop a strategic brand-building plan, extend outreach and marketing, and create some visual excitement and identity through the development of the new mascot. As a college that shares part of its name with the state university system, it was important that people understand the uniqueness of Great Falls College and the commitment to offering an excellent, distinctive Great Falls College experience.
The college is undergoing several efforts to improve service, programming, support, and the physical campus environment. One such example is the extensive renovation of the college library, which features tutoring and support services in a creative, modern, and functional space that feels good to use.
There is certainly more work to be done, with a refreshed website in the works and plans for community outreach events. Great Falls College Montana State University is not only the home of the River Otters, it’s also the home of a highly engaged college leadership team, faculty, and staff and a safe, exciting, and successful place for students.