APRIL NIBJ: On The Move

NIC trustee appointed ACCT committee member

North Idaho College trustee Tarie Zimmerman was appointed as a Public Policy and Advocacy Committee Member for the Association of Community College Trustees.

The Association of Community College Trustees is a nonprofit educational organization of governing boards, representing more than 6,500 elected and appointed trustees who serve on over 500 governing boards of community, technical and junior colleges in the United States. The ACCT is a national organization that brings community college leaders together to address real-world challenges and help students succeed through advocacy and education.

Members of the Public Policy and Advocacy Committee are tasked with reviewing policy issues and recommending positions to the ACCT Board of Directors.

“I’m honored to have been appointed to the position,” Zimmerman said. “I plan to apply my experience and knowledge gained from serving as a trustee for North Idaho College to contribute to public policy and advocacy for community colleges on a national scale."

Zimmerman, an NIC trustee since 2022, previously worked with ACCT representatives in board training sessions and said she is excited to contribute to the organization.

Luft joins Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty

Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty welcomes Donna Luft. After moving to Coeur d’Alene several years ago, Luft and her husband quickly fell in love with the community’s warmth, hospitality and small-town charm.

With nearly 30 years of experience inspiring and educating students, Luft now brings her passion for service, communication and dedication to real estate. She understands that buying or selling a home is more than a transaction — it’s about building relationships and ensuring clients feel heard, informed and empowered.

“Donna’s background in education, strong work ethic, and commitment to her clients make her a great addition to our team,” said Gary Schneidmiller, Founder & Chairman.

Outside from real estate, she enjoys the outdoors, spending time with family, and playing pickleball any chance she gets. Coldwell Banker Schneidmiller Realty is proud to support Luft as she embarks on this next chapter.

Longtime Pepsi sales manager joins Kelly Right Real Estate CDA

After an impressive career spanning over three decades at Pepsi-Cola, where Kelley McKenzie serviced businesses across North Idaho and Eastern Washington, McKenzie has transitioned into the real estate industry. McKenzie is joining his wife, Jodi McKenzie, at Kelly Right Real Estate CDA.

The McKenzie's have been proud residents of Idaho since 1993, where they have raised their son and daughter and are now enjoying the joys of grandparenthood with their first grandson. Originally hailing from Montana, both Kelley and Jodi bring a deep sense of community and commitment to their new venture.

McKenzie brings with him over 20 years of sales and leadership experience, having built strong connections with businesses throughout the region. He is now eager to channel his dedication to superior customer service into helping homebuyers and sellers navigate the real estate market. His extensive background in sales and his passion for serving the community make him a valuable asset to Kelly Right Real Estate CDA.

The Idaho Community Foundation welcomes new philanthropic advisor  

The Idaho Community Foundation (ICF) is pleased to welcome Bill Pfinsgraff as its new Philanthropic Advisor in North Idaho. Pfinsgraff brings a deep passion for community engagement and a strong background in relationship-building that will help expand philanthropic opportunities across the region. 

A longtime North Idaho resident, Pfinsgraff has lived in both Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene and has a deep appreciation for the outdoor opportunities the area provides. Prior to joining ICF, he worked in sales and marketing, primarily with Elysian Brewing. He holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Allegheny College, where he also played hockey — a pastime he still enjoys in local pond hockey games. 

In his new role, Pfinsgraff will work directly with generous Idahoans, giving circles, and affiliates like the Greater Coeur d'Alene Community Foundation and Grangeville Community Foundation to support philanthropy that strengthens North Idaho’s communities. He will help individuals, families and businesses connect their charitable giving with meaningful causes, ensuring nonprofit organizations have the resources they need to address critical challenges. 

“Philanthropy plays a vital role in keeping North Idaho’s communities vibrant and thriving,” said Bobby Myers, COO of Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE) and a founding member of the Greater Coeur d’Alene Community Foundation. “Bill’s enthusiasm, community involvement, and ability to connect people with causes they care about make him an incredible asset. North Idaho communities are fortunate to have someone with his passion and commitment working to strengthen the region.” 

Pfinsgraff is an active member of the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce and Coeur d’Alene Eagles. He has also volunteered with or supported organizations including BikeCDA, the EXCEL Foundation, Safe Passage, Toys for Tots, Safe Start, the North Idaho Centennial Trail Association and St. Vincent de Paul. 

When he’s not working to strengthen philanthropy in North Idaho, Pfinsgraff can be found skiing, biking, golfing, swimming or tinkering with his 1968 International Scout 800.

Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel hits jackpot with new department directors 

Three new directors at Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel are reinvigorating the casino and premier Inland Northwest entertainment brand since taking the helm of their respective departments in recent months. 

Advertising Director Teresa Gavin has extensive experience in marketing and advertising, spanning over two decades, with roles ranging from Account Executive to Director of Marketing. Her career has been shaped by leadership roles at organizations like Banner Marketing, Great Floors and Blue541, where she honed her expertise in driving brand awareness, creating innovative campaigns, and implementing successful marketing strategies. 

“Joining the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel team allows me to return to my roots, leveraging my experience to contribute to a respected local institution,” said Gavin, who holds a Bachelor of Science in organizations and mass communication from Eastern Washington University. “I’m inspired by the opportunity to create impactful campaigns that align with tribal and casino values and goals.” 

Hospitality Director Tucker Louie-McGee, MBA, a Coeur d’Alene Tribe member, holds a Masters of Business Administration degree from Eastern Washington University. Prior to his recent promotion, he held several positions at the casino including Marketing Assistant, Casino Host, Promotions Manager and Facilities Administration Manager.

“I am always striving to better myself, as well as provide for my family, my tribe, and the community,” Louie-McGee said. “I get my inspiration and drive from my wife and son – soon to be two [sons]. I have a positive outlook on every situation and am an open-minded leader who has a great team to work with.” 

Director of Golf Don Rasmussen, PGA, enters the 2025 golf season at the Circling Raven Golf Club with the goal of making it the premier golf experience in the Northwest and beyond.

“We get players from all over the country, and it’s my hope that when they go home, they can't help but tell others about their incredible golf experience here,” Rasmussen said.

Recognized as a Golf Digest "Best Instructor" for Washington State from 2021 to 2024, Rasmussen was also named San Diego Chapter PGA Teacher of the Year in 2015. He has given over 60,000 golf lessons over his 35 years as a pro, and served as an NCAA Div.

    Donna Luft
  

    Kelley McKenzie
  

    Bill Pfinsgraff
  

    Teresa Gavin
  

    Tucker Louie-McGee
  

    Don Rasmussen