PULLMAN, WA – Washington State University Native American Health Sciences Director Jerry Crowshoe has been honored with the Native Indian Education Association’s “Parent of the Year Award,” a national recognition celebrating his leadership and service to tribal communities.

Crowshoe, an enrolled member of the Piikani Nation and father of four, was recognized for his extensive work with Native youth in the Spokane region and his leadership in WSU-affiliated programs. Among his key efforts is the Na-ha-shnee STEAM Summer Initiative, which introduces high school students to health science fields through hands-on learning with WSU students, faculty, and healthcare professionals. This year marked Crowshoe’s first time organizing the long-running program, which celebrated its 30th anniversary.

Budget limitations shifted Na-ha-shnee into a day-camp format for 2025, but it still offered a dozen students the chance to explore health careers. Crowshoe said he hopes to restore overnight campus housing in future years, noting its importance in helping students envision college life.

Native American Health Sciences is also expanding its outreach. The Little Birds program is expected to enter Spokane-area kindergarten classrooms in the spring, giving young students lab coats, stethoscopes, and hands-on activities such as a Teddy Bear Clinic to spark interest in health professions. The center additionally plans to launch a free spring-break basketball camp that will incorporate lessons on injury prevention, nutrition, and basic physiology.

Crowshoe said he draws inspiration from his own children and aims to build programs that give Native youth early, positive experiences with higher education and healthcare.

“I really want to say how appreciative I am of leadership here at WSU, as well as the Tribal Advisory Board, for listening to the tribes that have come to the table, stepping up to help meet their needs,” he said.