Bennett Kern
Director
Bennett grew up in Bozeman, Montana, and earned his Bachelor's Degree in Community Health from Montana State University. As a student at Bozeman High School, Bennett saw firsthand the powerful impact Big Sky Youth Empowerment had on one of his best friends. He observed his friend’s personal growth and his increased access to get outside to ski, hike, climb, and enjoy the outdoors. Bennett’s younger sister also became a participant at BYEP while he was in college, and she shared how the organization had impacted and helped her during one of the most challenging times in her life. Bennett was drawn to get involved at BYEP and in 2018, he became a volunteer mentor and fell in love with the organization. Subsequently, he became a Program Manager in 2019 and maintained the role for three years. He received incredible mentorship from various leaders and watched the organization grow exponentially.
Bennett’s drive to create tangible change led him to return to Montana State University to earn his Master’s in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling. Bennett is currently pursuing state licensure and works as a counselor-in-training in the Bozeman community. In his freetime, he and his fiancé can be found camping with their rambunctious husky, Seeley, in the mountains around southwest Montana or skiing laps up at Bridger Bowl. He and his family are passionate about connecting with nature, helping others, and actively engaging in their community.