The Montana Notary Guild was established in 2007, by Elwood English, a former Chief Legal Counsel under two Secretaries of State, Jim Waltermire and Brad Johnson. Elwood envisioned a platform that would provide essential training to Montana notaries public. Back then, even though notary education wasn't mandatory for obtaining a commission, many notaries sought guidance and instruction on their legal obligations. The Guild stepped up to meet this demand, offering in-person classes across the state and supporting the biennial Montana Statewide Notary Conferences.
Mission: The Montana Notary Guild's mission remains unwavering: to deliver the gold standard in comprehensive, and practical training and on-going support to Montana's notaries public. The training not only addresses legal requirements but also emphasizes the execution of notarial practice. This approach ensures that notaries are well-equipped to perform their roles accurately, confidently, and professionally.
Who we are
Why a “Guild”?
Why did we choose to be a guild rather than an organization, an association, or a society?
Historically, a guild was an association of professionals who oversaw the practice of their craft or trade in a particular territory. The earliest types of guilds formed as organizations of tradespeople regulated by the local government. Typically, only guild members were allowed to practice their skill within the jurisdiction of the controlling governmental authority as a means of promoting professional standards. An important result of the guilds was the emergence of universities as centers of learning and perfecting the professions they represented.
The Montana Notary Guild was founded on the premise that quality education dedicated to the art and practice of notarial service, is still, as it has always been, an essential component of this important profession.
The Montana Notary Guild is a private, non-profit organization, by and for Montana notaries public. The Director, Lori Hamm, was formerly the Notary Administrator at the Montana Secretary of State’s Office from 2004 - 2024. Her knowledge and passion for all things notary and her commitment to promoting the highest standards of the profession has been recognized nationally and internationally. For more information about Lori, see her biography below.
Meet the Team
LORI HAMM
Montana Notary Guild
Lori's career as the Notary Administrator in the Montana Secretary of State’s Office is a testament to her commitment to notary education and excellence. Over her 20-year tenure, Lori not only authored 17 editions of the Montana Notary Public Handbook but also presented hundreds of classes and seminars, profoundly impacting the understanding and practice of notary laws, rules, ethics, and procedures throughout Montana. Her efforts culminated in the organization of six statewide notary conferences, drawing presenters and attendees from all over the country and solidifying Montana's reputation as a leader in notary education. Her accolades include the prestigious National Notary Association’s March Fong Eu Award in 2021, recognizing her visionary contributions. Lori's passion continues as she reactivates the Montana Notary Guild, ensuring her expertise and guidance remain accessible to notaries striving for competence and confidence in their service. She is also spearheading a coalition of recognized notary authorities to develop national standards and credentials for notaries in America.
Executive Director, Instructor
KRISTI STROUF
Instructor, Executive Advisor
Born with a heart to serve and always willing to help others led Kristi to become a notary public. As she learned how diversified a notary career can be, her passion only grew as a lifelong learner. With a background in business management and public service in various organizations, she understands the important role notaries public play in day-to-day life and helping keep the economy rolling. Kristi has eagerly attended many notary training seminars and conferences. Being fearless as a remote online notary, she has been part of pilot programs with the Montana MVD and the MT SOS Apostille/Authentication Division. Her dedication to helping other notaries and believing customer service is always first earned her the Montana Notary of the Year in 2022. Kristi looks forward to meeting and assisting all notaries in being all that they strive to be. As a Montana SOS-approved notary trainer, Kristi’s classes are engaging, interactive, and consistently receive outstanding reviews for content and style.
MONDAK Notary Service
Board of Advisors
Sabrina Hallsten
Office Administrator & Paralegal
Jackson, Murdo & Grant, PC.
Montana Notary of the Year 2015
Jannell Huff
CRA/Community Outreach Coordinator & Relationship Manager, Bank of the Rockies
Member of the Montana Governor’s Northcentral Elder Justice Council
William Gowen
Vice President of Helena Abstract and Title Company.
Montana Notary of the Year 2019
Our Loyal Staff
Scooter The 406 Notary Pup
Gonzo The MNG Mascot