Griz Honor Sidney Alum With Community Service Award

The town of Sidney is situated all the way on the eastern edge of the state, but despite the distance, Phil Johnson’s heart is always close to The University of Montana.

The Distinguished Community Service Award, presented to Phil at Saturday’s game, recognizes support of and service to UM and its athletic programs, as well as service to hometown communities. It is presented by the University and coordinated by the Office of Alumni Relations, Grizzly Athletics and the Grizzly Scholarship Association.

Phil graduated from UM in 1990 with a degree in journalism. During his time as a student, he was an active member of the Gamma Phi chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity. When he wasn’t volunteering his time for various Greek events and community outreach activities, he kept himself busy following campus happenings as a reporter for UM’s student newspaper, the Montana Kaimin.

He spent six years working as a reporter and editor for newspapers in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota before returning home to Sidney to run the family hardware and furniture business. Johnson Hardware and Furniture celebrates its 97th anniversary in Sidney this year. The store received the Montana Family Business of the Year award from the Montana State University College of Business in 2002.

For Phil, the 621-mile trek from Sidney to Washington-Grizzly Stadium isn’t a burden it’s an opportunity to show that loyal Griz fans and UM supporters come from all parts of the state. Phil took his affinity for his alma mater a step further when he joined the unofficial Sidney chapter of the GSA 10 years ago. He later helped the group become an official GSA chapter, and he currently serves as the chapter’s secretary and treasurer. The Sidney GSA chapter hosts a golf tournament, banquet and auction every year during the GSA Spring Tour.

In addition to his GSA service, Phil volunteers his time to several community organizations in Sidney. He is a member of the Sidney Chamber of Commerce, a member and past master of Lower Yellowstone Lodge No. 90 Masonic Lodge, a member and past president of the Sidney Jaycees, and a member and board director of the Sidney Kiwanis Club.

Phil and his wife, Joy, have four children: Lance, 23; Levi, 22; Leith, 19; and Blake, 6.