Dodi Stilkey

Dodi Stilkey graduated with her doctoral degree in Education Leadership, with a concentration in Higher Education Administration from Idaho State University. She also holds a Master of Science degree in Economics from the University of Idaho. Her research interests are in self-efficacy, resilience, and emotional intelligence with an emphasis on understanding how power structures affect equity, individuals, and systems.

Dodi began her career by serving as the Economic Development Planner for the Nez Perce Tribe. One of her most memorable projects was serving on the small team that produced one of the Tribe's first formal commercial partnerships, which brought the world Kaya, the American Girl doll that represents early Nez Perce culture, along with historical fiction books about Kaya and her family and tribe. She progressed to higher education, beginning with Eastern Washington University, where she provided operational insight and support for a new medical program and taught economics as an adjunct professor. From there, she joined Washington State University as the Associate State Director for the Washington Small Business Development Centers network. A highlight while there was having the opportunity to join a panel of presenters for two consecutive years to discuss rural clusters and economic development strategies at former Governor Christine Gregoire's annual economic development conference.

Most recently, before joining Gonzaga, Dodi was at a local community college, mentoring student leaders and directing student involvement and SUB operations. She provided leadership training to students and selected campus groups, managed the Student Union, and served as the lead department in an institutional assessment initiative. While there, Dodi also taught economics, worked as a Writing Consultant, and served on a wide variety of campus committees. She received the Rising Star Award in 2005 and the Woman of the Year Award in 2021 from the North Idaho College Diversity Council.

Dodi brings a strength-focused, holistic approach to her work. Recently, she completed the requirements to become a Nationally Certified Professional in Mediation. She is also a certified CliftonStrengths Coach and holds additional certifications in Mental Health First Aid and several other key support areas in mental health and risk management. She believes in working with individual and team strengths, supporting others' agency, transparency, and creating solid partnerships and supportive work environments where everyone can thrive.

Outside the work environment, Dodi spends quality time with her family, friends, and outdoors. Her favorite pastimes include hiking, traveling, reading, and being by and on the water. A key life motto for Dodi is “leave things better than you found them.”