Dr. Joe McDonald is a Montana visionary. He began his long career as a smoke jumper then went on to be a teacher and coach in high school and college. Joe founded Salish Kootenai College in 1977, without funding, buildings, faculty or students.
By the time he retired 33 years later, SKC had become one of the nation’s most admired tribal colleges. It provides high quality education and opportunities for Native Americans, on the Flathead Reservation and beyond.
Now 88, he continues to mentor young Indigenous leaders. Today on Can Do, you’ll hear what motivated Joe McDonald to be an educator and community innovator for over 5 decades. He will tell us about the challenges and successes that went into starting a tribal college. He will talk about economic vitality on the Flathead Reservation, and will explain the importance of having supportive partnerships in your community.