Governor Greg Gianforte and Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras presented Norma Smith with the Spirit of Montana Award in a ceremony at the Great Falls Rescue Mission, recognizing her decades-long contributions to Montana’s communities and her trailblazing career in broadcast journalism.
“Service, resilience, and community are at the heart of who we are as Montanans,” Governor Gianforte said. “Norma Smith’s life reflects the very best of our state. From her trailblazing career in broadcast journalism to her lifelong commitment to uplifting others, she has strengthened Montana and inspired generations.”
During the ceremony, Smith received a certificate and a flag flown over the State Capitol in her honor. She reflected on her life and career, quoting a personal motto: “It’s wonderful what can be done if you don’t care who gets the credit,” which she said guided her throughout her work in Montana.
A fourth-generation Montanan, Smith grew up on a family ranch and attended a one-room schoolhouse before graduating from Helena High School in 1953. She earned a journalism degree from the University of Montana and gained early reporting experience at the Helena Independent Record.
Smith later moved to New York City, where she worked as a photo editor for LIFE magazine and helped establish The Montana Club of New York, connecting Montanans living in the city. She returned to Montana in 1962, joining KRTV in Great Falls as host and producer of the live television program Today in Montana. Over 26 years, she hosted more than 7,000 live shows, interviewed over 26,000 guests, and produced 21 documentaries, becoming a trusted presence in households across the state.
Her achievements in broadcasting earned her the Television Broadcaster of the Year award in 1985 and induction into the Montana Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2010 as only the second woman to receive the honor. She also published her memoir, Movie Stars & Rattlesnakes: The Heyday of Montana Live Television, chronicling her experiences on live television.
Smith’s influence extended beyond broadcasting. She played a key role in founding the C.M. Russell Art Auction, helped preserve Montana’s Western art heritage, served as co-chair of the Cascade County Bicentennial Commission, and was recognized as an honorary member of the Blackfeet Indian Tribe for her contributions to Native communities.
A lifelong volunteer, Smith has served her church as a Stephen Minister, supported grieving families, and been a longtime advocate for the Great Falls Rescue Mission. Friends and neighbors describe her as consistently positive, encouraging, and generous with her time.
The Spirit of Montana Award honors Montanans who demonstrate exceptional dedication, service, and achievement. Smith’s career and community contributions exemplify the award’s mission to celebrate the people who strengthen and inspire the state.