FOR RELEASE: September 15, 2026
GREAT FALLS, MONTANA | The University of Providence will welcome former University President Gene McAllister back to campus for a book signing and author event featuring his new novel, Now I See, on Wednesday, September 23, from 4–6 p.m. at the University of Providence Library.
Guests will have the opportunity to meet McAllister, hear about the inspiration behind Now I See and participate in a question-and-answer session. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing, and a light reception will follow.
Now I See follows Peter Schmidt, who takes a teaching position in the blue-collar Montana town of Five Falls while trying to escape his past. As he becomes involved in the lives and struggles of his students and their families, Peter is challenged to see those around him differently. The novel explores themes of compassion, grace, second chances and the importance of recognizing those who are too often overlooked.
While Five Falls is fictional, Great Falls readers may find parts of the community surprisingly familiar. McAllister modeled much of the novel’s setting after Great Falls, giving local readers a special connection to the people, places and community depicted in the story.
McAllister has deep ties to both the University and the Great Falls community. He served as president of the University of Great Falls, now the University of Providence, from 2003 to 2015. Following his 12 years as president, McAllister served as president emeritus before retiring in 2016.
Before entering higher education, McAllister worked in economic policy in Washington, D.C., holding positions at the White House and U.S. Department of State and serving during the administrations of Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. He later also served as interim president of Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota.
His return to campus offers the Great Falls community an opportunity to reconnect with a former University leader, learn more about his newest work and discover the local influences woven throughout the fictional town of Five Falls.
Event Details
What: Gene McAllister Now I See Book Signing, Meet the Author and Q&A
When: Wednesday, September 23, 4–6 p.m.
Where: University of Providence Library
Details: Books will be available for purchase and signing. A light reception will follow.
The event is open to the community.
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The University of Providence (UP) is a private, Roman Catholic Liberal Arts University founded in 1932 by the Sisters of Providence. The University of Providence honors the Sisters’ vision today by providing a mission-driven education to those that need it the most. UP is located in Great Falls, Montana and offers both undergraduate and graduate level liberal arts programs and health programs. For more information visit www.uprovidence.edu.
