SKC to interview 5 candidates for president position
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News from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes
PABLO — The Board of Directors of Salish Kootenai College will interview five candidates May 29 for the position of college president.
Sandra Boham of Great Falls is currently a candidate for the degree of Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of Montana. She holds a master’s degree in Adult and Higher Education, and a bachelor’s degree in sociology. She has twenty years experience with American Indian Educational Programs and has taught in the K-12 classroom setting as well as college and university setting. She has a strong and lifelong commitment to the ideals of American Indian education, tribal sovereignty, language preservation, cultural sustainability and economic development for the Tribal people.
Robert DePoe III of Cedar City, Utah holds a master’s degree in Professional Communication from Southern Utah University and a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. He has worked in Indian education for a number of years and understands the important and dynamic role Tribal Colleges play. He understands that the sustained growth of SKC is dependent on its cultural and ethical foundation. DePoe believes College organizations, faculty, staff, community members, and students together will continue to enhance the life or the community. He has a great desire to return home and serve his community.
Steven Dupuis of Polson is currently in the final stages of completing a Doctorate of Management in Information Systems & Technology through the University of Phoenix. He holds a master degree in Technology Management from South Dakota School of Mines and a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He has been an employee of Salish Kootenai College for the past 16 years. He has been a representative of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC) on several national programs and initiatives. He has taught Information technology and computer science courses over the years. His leadership philosophy involves innovation, transformation and cultural understanding.
Gyda Swaney of Missoula holds a Doctorate and MA in Clinical Psychology from the University of Montana and a bachelors in psychology and sociology. She has 13 years directing programs and has served on the Board of Directors of Nkwusm for eight years.
Swaney was co-Prinicipal Investigator of the Mental Health Careers Opportunity Program and a Mentor for the Bridges to Baccalaureate Program. She has taught undergraduate and graduate-level multicultural psychology courses. She shares the values articulated in the mission and vision of SKC; values the cultural traditions and customs of the Salish, Pend d’Oreille, and Kootenai people.
Carmen Taylor of Polson holds a Masters degree in Education from Montana State University and a bachelor’s degree in social welfare.
She has directed an Upward Bound Program at the University of Montana and was Division Chief in the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Indian Education Programs. She has over twenty years experience with the National Indian School Board Association. Taylor participated in the Kellogg Foundation leadership program and has attended many AIHEC functions.
She has also served as Vice President of Academic Affairs at Salish Kootenai College. Taylor understands the mission and vision of Salish Kootenai College along with the importance of retention and recruitment.
The SKC Board of Directors hopes to make a selection in June.
