Nela Ward

Nela is described by others as selfless, curious, caring, witty. She loves to spend time outdoors in the open air.  Her favorite class at BHS is graphic design. She says, “I find it very interesting to learn about the thought and intention that goes into design and marketing.” 

Nela has excelled on the Debate team.  She placed 1st at state as a sophomore and 2nd at state as a junior.  She qualified for Nationals twice.  She served in a leadership position for three years.  Nela is also a member of Model UN. She serves as the Co-President and attended a conference in Washington D.C. in March of 2024.  In addition, Nela competes in the Academic WorldQuest program.

Nela has spent the past 4 years volunteering with Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) doing conservation work all over the state. She has also taken on an active role in fundraising for the MCC.

Nela also enjoys volunteering with smaller local groups and events in the summer such as the HRDC and Sweet Pea Festival. She has over 400 hours of volunteer service.  

Nela plans to attend the University of Montana to study journalism. After that, she hopes to become an environmental lawyer.

As Nela reflects on her time at BHS she shares that, “I am most proud of how much I have grown as a leader throughout high school. I find it incredibly rewarding to see the impact you can make when you work hard at something you are passionate about.”