Michael Munson takes helm at Salish Kootenai College

Dr. Michael M. Munson returned to Salish Kootenai College this month to serve as the institution’s next president, following an extensive national search and approval by the SKC Board of Directors.

Munson served as interim president for seven months, from last June through January 2025. She becomes the sixth president in the college’s history and brings more than two decades of experience in higher education, leadership and Native-serving institutions.

Her commitment to academic excellence, cultural perpetuation, and community empowerment aligns strongly with SKC’s mission to provide quality post-secondary educational opportunities for Native American students and others.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Munson home to the Salish Kootenai College community,” said Eldena Bear Don’t Walk, chair of the SKC Board of Directors. “Her vision, leadership, and deep understanding of our tribal college values will guide SKC into an exciting new chapter.”

Munson most recently served as Associate Vice-Provost of Tribal Research and Graduate Education at Washington State University, Pullman, where she led initiatives to expand academic programs, support student success, and strengthen community partnerships.

A passionate advocate for Indigenous education, she has also been active in state and national efforts to promote equity and access in tribal and rural communities.

“I am humbled and excited to return to Salish Kootenai College in this capacity. SKC is an institution with a rich cultural legacy and a powerful commitment to student achievement,” said Munson. “Together with the SKC community, I look forward to building on the college’s strong foundation and advancing its mission for future generations.”

She succeeds Dr. Sandra Boham, who retired in 2024 after eight years of dedicated service to the college.

Munson graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor’s in Elementary Education, and taught middle school for three-plus years. After earning a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, focusing on Indian education and science she went on to serve communities, schools, teachers and students across Montana in her roles as Indian Education Implementation Specialist and American Indian Student Achievement Specialist with the Montana Office of Public Instruction.

With the Séliš-Ql̓ispé Culture Committee as her guide, she pursued her doctorate from Montana State University, and became focused on revitalizing Séliš and Ql̓ispé education.

During her time with Salish Kootenai College, she has served as Dean of Native American Studies (NAS) and as faculty within both the Division of Education and NAS. She was also SKC’s Vice President of Academic Affairs.