Board of Directors
Meet the member-elected Board of Directors of the Montana Women’s Finance Co-op.
-
Dr. Jennifer Isern
BOARD CHAIR
Dr. Jennifer Isern, CFA, offers over 30 years of experience in financial sector development in the USA and more than 70 countries. She launched Catalyze Global Impact LLC in 2019 to promote private sector solutions, including financing, technical assistance, and other tools for families and businesses to thrive. Previously, Dr. Isern served 23 years in multiple roles in the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the World Bank Group Dr. Isern also serves as board member and advisor for several investment funds, foundations, and other organizations in the USA and Europe
-
Kassi Strong
VICE CHAIR
Born and raised in Billings, Montana, Kassi returned in 2022 to raise her children in the community she loves. As a passionate business owner, she specializes in providing strategic marketing support to local businesses and is the co-founder of the Prairie Sisters Vintage Market, which brings together small businesses for community-focused events. From 2023 to 2025, she had the honor of serving as the director for the Rocky Mountain WBC, where she helped countless Montana women start and grow their businesses. Her work is driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of small businesses to impact families and communities, especially when led by women.
-
Emily Strawser
TREASURER
Emily is a Real Estate Loan Officer at NeighborWorks Montana. She is also a small business owner of EKS Enterprises
-
Karen Smith
SECRETARY
Karen Smith serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer for Montana’s Credit Unions, where she leads advocacy and communications to advance and protect the interests of Montana’s 43 credit unions and their members. Born and raised in Montana, she has over 20 years of experience in the credit union movement, dedicated to strengthening cooperative values, expanding financial access, and creating meaningful community impact. She is a strong advocate for women’s leadership and financial empowerment across the state.
-
Debbie Maue
BOARD MEMBER
With over 37 years of experience and a marketing background, Debbie is a real estate expert known for getting exceptional results for her clients. Her deep understanding of the market and commitment to a client-focused approach have earned her a reputation built entirely on referrals and have made her a consistent Top Producer. Debbie's expertise extends beyond Montana, with 37+ years in the Chicago market and extensive international experience. Her background includes founding her own international brokerage and serving in leadership roles for multiple international real estate organizations. Debbie is also the co-owner of PEAK FIT & Wellness in Whitefish and Kalispell, MT. Dedicated to health and fitness, Debbie brings high energy and resilience to her work. She is passionate about giving back, supporting organizations like World Vision, Girls on the Run, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
-
Krystal Guilhemotonia
BOARD MEMBER
Krystal Guilhemotonia is the CEO and majority owner of Aqua Creek Products, a Missoula-based manufacturer and global leader in aquatic accessibility. Since becoming CEO in 2020, she has nearly doubled sales, expanded the team to 70 employees, and driven innovations that make aquatic experiences possible for people of all abilities. Recognized as the 2024 Montana Ambassadors Entrepreneur of the Year, a 2025 Pool Pro Magazine Power Woman, and a 2025 Montana Manufacturing Success Story, Krystal brings both professional excellence and a passion for accessibility to her role. A Missoula native and mother of three, she also serves on the Montana Women’s Finance Co-op board, where she champions economic opportunity for women across the state.