Joyce Huffaker
In 1959, Joyce Freseman (Huffaker) graduated from Montana State Normal School (now the University of Montana Western) as a promising English education major, ready to make her mark in teaching. Although born in Helena and raised in Butte, Joyce ventured to Arizona, where she would dedicate more than four decades to teaching English and AP English in the Mesa School District. Throughout her career, Joyce fostered a love of learning and creativity, mentoring debate teams, sponsoring the National Honor Society, and creating unique, collaborative teaching environments alongside her husband, Jerry Huffaker, also a lifelong educator.
As a student, Joyce was involved in numerous academic and cultural activities, including the Wescolite (school paper), Chinook (yearbook), Debate Club, and the theater group Gargoyles. She also earned membership in prestigious honorary societies and was selected as one of six Who’s Who students to represent the class of ’59, a testament to her leadership and dedication.
In March 2024, Joyce left an extraordinary legacy to Montana Western—a transformative endowment of over half a million dollars, one of the largest of its kind in the history of the UMW Foundation. This gift, designated specifically for scholarships for future teachers, will generate $20,000-$30,000 each year in perpetuity.
Joyce’s generosity is remarkable, especially given the modest earnings typical of a teaching career. Her gift reflects her deep gratitude for the scholarships she received at MSNS, which made it possible for her to complete her education. While she could have chosen to support other institutions, including those where she pursued further studies, she chose Montana Western—a school that, to her, remained home. Her unrestricted endowment will allow the Foundation to support a broad range of aspiring educators, from those with financial need to high-achieving students, empowering them to pursue careers in teaching without financial burden.
The University of Montana Western is honored by Joyce’s incredible gift, which will live on through annual scholarships. The ripple effect of her generosity will touch not only future teachers but also the thousands of students they will teach throughout their careers, ensuring that Joyce’s passion for education continues to inspire generations.
