Cassidy Bales has served as an Academic Coordinator/Learning Specialist for Montana State Athletics since July 2021. In her role within Athletics Academics, she monitors student-athlete progress toward degree completion and NCAA academic eligibility requirements, connects student-athletes with campus academic resources, and provides individualized learning strategies to support academic success.
Bales serves as the primary academic coordinator for Montana State's Track & Field, Cross Country, Spirit Squad, and Women's Basketball programs. She works closely with coaches, faculty, and campus partners to ensure student-athletes are equipped with the resources necessary to excel both academically and athletically.
Prior to joining Montana State, Bales served as an Assistant Learning Specialist at the University of Maryland in 2021. She also worked as a Learning Resources Intern at the University of Washington from 2019-2020 and completed an internship with Hilliard Solutions from 2020-2021, gaining valuable experience in academic support and student development.
A former student-athlete herself, Bales was a member of the cheerleading program at the University of Washington from 2014-2017. She served as team captain during her senior season, helping lead the program while balancing the demands of academics and athletics.
Bales earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Communications from the University of Washington in 2017 and a Master of Professional Studies in Sports Industry Management from Georgetown University in 2021. She further expanded her expertise in student support and well-being by earning a Mental Health Support Certificate from Montana State University in 2023.
Cassidy resides in Belgrade with her husband, Jared, and enjoys spending time with their two cats and dog.