NILSON: A leader, and friend

I wish to thank my friend Ron Nilson for his service on the North Idaho College Board, and wish him well. Four years ago I could not have imagined writing this letter.

Ron and I had a strained relationship due to misunderstandings and local politics. I have come to know him well during his term on the board and truly enjoy my friendship with Ron and his lovely wife, Pam.

We have had some interesting and sometimes heated discussions in our board meetings. We don’t always agree but that is the makeup of a strong board of directors. Different viewpoints bring good discussion and decision making.

It has been fun working with him.

Ron is no shrinking violet. He is passionate, committed to the taxpayers, and takes his role seriously as a trustee.

My dear friend Mary Watson once told me about Ron, “He is a good man.” At the time I did not know him well enough to agree. Now I wholeheartedly agree with her.

He can be larger than life and command all the attention in a room, but at the same time genuinely speak from his heart.

He cares about the future of our students at NIC and has worked hard with our board to bring them new opportunities.

If you see Ron out and about in the community he loves, be sure to thank him for his service to North Idaho College.

CHRISTIE WOOD

Coeur d’Alene