Board Spotlight on Angie Kujala
Meet Angie:
I was born and raised in Ennis, Montana. I moved to Bozeman in 1998 to attend Montana State University, where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. I then began a career in Human Resources where I have been working for the past 18 years. I recently decided to join my husband in working with his online guitar instruction company, Tony’s Acoustic Challenge. We have two young daughters (ages 5 and 8) and a dog. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, cross country skiing, hiking, and really anything outdoors.
When did you join the Bridgercare board and why?
I joined the Bridgercare Board of Directors just a few months ago. I strongly support all of the services Bridgercare provides to our community, but a couple of the services are particularly near and dear to me. Growing up, I was not provided education on sexual health and I had to learn it all on my own (thank goodness for Teen Magazine!). Now, being a mother of two girls, I feel strongly that starting the conversation early is so important. Our bodies are nothing to be ashamed of and the discussions shouldn’t feel embarrassing - it’s okay to say penis and vagina :) Not all people feel comfortable about having these discussions, which is why I love the programs Bridgercare has in place to educate our youth.I am also a survivor of domestic violence. I have spent the last decade volunteering with HAVEN, I am a member of HAVEN’s survivor speakers group called End the Silence. I feel strongly about giving victims and survivors the services they need to exit their unhealthy relationships. I am excited about the new partnership between HAVEN and Bridgercare that provides services to victims and survivors of domestic violence.
What do you wish more people knew about Bridgercare?
I want the public to know that anyone can use Bridgercare services! Bridgercare relies on insurance and patient fees to provide low-cost, quality care in our community. Those who use our services and have insurance help in providing services to those who do not have insurance and/or cannot afford to pay full cost for the services they receive.
What is your favorite part about being on the board?
My favorite part about being on the board is joining an organization that provides services to anyone in need - without discriminating. I feel we can truly make a difference in the lives of many by ensuring that Bridgercare thrives.
If you could be any animal, what would you be? A sloth - I think they’re adorable. Also, wouldn’t it be nice to go through life so lazily and it is excusable because you’re a sloth?
Do you have a favorite quote or saying that you can share with us?
“You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.” - Gandhi