Culbertson, MT – Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen today announced the appointment of several division administrators to help lead the Department of Justice.
“We have assembled a tremendous group of talented individuals; I am excited to have each one of them on our team,” Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen said. “Working together we will improve efficiencies in our operations and ensure that the DoJ is responsive to all Montanans.
Motor Vehicle Division – Laurie Bakeri – Ms. Backri is originally from Helena; she received her degree from the University of Montana in elementary education. After teaching middle school for several years, she ventured into the private sector. Starting in a single learning center, she then progressed over 17 years to oversee high quality programming and efficient operations for national and international learning centers. Most recently, Ms. Backri has served as the Business Services Supervisor in the Secretary of State’s office.
Central Services Division – Stephanie Cote – Mrs. Cote is a former state legislator who also served as Senior Policy Advisor for the Montana Secretary of State as well as the Montana State Auditor. Stephanie holds a B.S. In Social Work and has worked nearly 20 years in mental health and long-term care. Stephanie currently owns a consulting business and serves on the board of directors for a local non-profit organization. In addition, Mrs. Cote will serve as Senior Policy Advisor to the Attorney General
Gaming Control Division – Rusty Gackle – Mr. Gackle is an investor and entrepreneur who has owned and operated businesses in an array of industries, including marketing, e-commerce, publishing, agriculture, and real estate. He has an extensive background in finance and management. Born and raised on a farm in eastern Montana, Rusty helps manage his family farm while running his consulting business. He graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Business Finance.