Jerry Crowshoe is the director of Native American Health Sciences at Washington State University (WSU). He has received national recognition for his work with tribal communities. The Native Indian Education Association gave Crowshoe the ‘Parent of the Year Award.’ This award honors American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian parents who show leadership and commitment to their communities. Crowshoe is a father of four and a member of the Piikani Nation (Blackfoot Confederacy). He was recognized for his work in Spokane and nearby areas, especially through his role at WSU.
Crowshoe leads the Na-ha-shnee STEAM Summer Initiative. This program, which will mark its 30th anniversary in 2025, helps high school students learn about health science careers. Students visit WSU Spokane and meet with students, faculty, and healthcare professionals. Due to budget limits, the program was a day camp this year. It still served about a dozen students and gave them experience in healthcare fields.
Crowshoe said that staying in campus dorms helps students understand college life and career options. He hopes to bring back this part of the program in the future. He believes it helps students learn about living and studying away from home…